Auto mechanics are experts in handling all forms of automotive systems. Their primary duty is to repair, maintain and upgrade various parts of these systems. Because their job requires a great deal of technical knowledge, auto mechanics usually have to spend a significant amount of time obtaining formal training and training on the job.
While auto mechanics are well-rewarded for their efforts nationwide, data shows that some states are better than others. If you’re an aspiring or practicing mechanic searching for the best states to practice in, you’ve come to the right place.
Below is an in-depth guide highlighting the top states to be an auto mechanic and what makes them so.
State Advantages For Auto Mechanics
Usually, when considering which states are best to practice a particular profession, one of the most prominent factors that come to mind is the median salary. Because demand and supply vary by state, wages also do.
For this reason, the potential average salary played a significant role in our list below. Another critical factor significantly influencing the list is the ease of doing business. Some states make it easy to practice as auto mechanics while setting reasonable professional standards.
Other factors determining which states are best for working as an auto mechanic include opportunities, cost of living, and base salary.
National Salary Average for Auto Mechanics
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, mechanics all around the country earned an annual median wage of $46,880 in 2021. As you’ll see below, most entries on our list transcend these figures.
Nationally, in the top 10% of earners, auto mechanics took home $75,100 in 2022, while those in the bottom 10% earned $29,010. Again, the entries on our list are well above these numbers.
Other factors that usually affect an auto mechanic’s earnings include experience, location, and industry. The same factors apply in the states below but offer a better chance to optimize and get the best out of them.
Best States To Be An Auto Mechanic
Having laid the groundwork for the national average and critical factors, here are the ten best states to be an auto mechanic in the USA:
Vermont
Vermont is the number one entry on our list thanks to its impressive salary and job offers for auto mechanics. The state currently boasts of having the highest annual salary in the country at $56,946 on average. Here, the lowest ten percent earners get to take home $42,000, while the top ten percent can earn as high as $76,000 every year.
Wyoming
Wyoming is a close second to Vermont, with a slightly lower average annual salary. Mechanics in the state who fall into this range earn $53,161 yearly, while those who fall into the top ten percent earn as high as $72,000. Entry-level professionals with few certifications can still expect to earn as much as $38,000 per year.
North Dakota
North Dakota is a very favorable state for mechanics, with high demand, impressive industry standards, and job security. The average salary for median-level professionals is also quite impressive at $52,686. The top and bottom ten percent earn as much as $70,000 and $39,000, respectively.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania auto mechanics enjoy a handful of benefits that make the state one of the best options. This includes an annual average salary of $51,524 and as high as $72,000 for those in the top ten percent. The bottom ten percent can also earn as high as $36,000 per year.
Alaska
Right in the middle of our list of the ten best states for auto mechanics is Alaska, thanks to its impressive salary and significant demand for it. Auto professionals in the state earn an average of $53,109 each year. The lowest ten percent of earners get to take home $44,000, while the top ten percent can make as high as $63,000 annually.
Washington
With an average yearly salary of $57,967, becoming an auto mechanic in Washington is always a good idea. The state is especially favorable to entry-level professionals, who can expect to earn as much as $42,000. The top ten percent reach as high as $78,000 annually.
Connecticut
Connecticut has an annual average salary of $59,010, which can get as high as $82,000 for the top earners. The bottom earners can also earn as much as $42,000 each year.
Iowa
Iowa offers an impressive environment for auto mechanics to practice their trade and a fantastic salary range. Median earners can expect a payout of $48,624 yearly, while the top ten percent and bottom ten percent can expect a salary of $66,000 and $35,000, respectively.
Nevada
The state of Nevada is another favorable state for auto mechanics. Demand remains solid in this country, and the job outlook is as positive as usual. The average salary for median-level professionals here is close to the states above it at $50,320. The top and bottom ten percent earn as much as $70,000 and $35,000, respectively.
Utah
Rounding up our list at number ten is the state of Utah. Mechanics in Utah who fall into the median range take home $49,990 yearly, while those who fall into the top ten percent earn as high as $68,000. As for entry-level professionals without many certifications, they can still expect to earn as much as $36,000 per year.
