Design Engineer salaries in Philadelphia range from $120,000 to $396,000 in 2026. The mid-level median is $213,000, which is 20% above the national average.
Junior (0-2 yrs)
$120,000 – $168,000
Median: $144,000 · per year
Mid-Level (3-5 yrs)
$174,000 – $252,000
Median: $213,000 · per year
Senior (6+ yrs)
$264,000 – $396,000
Median: $330,000 · per year
Estimate your earning potential based on role, location, and experience.
Estimated Design Engineer Salary in Philadelphia, PA
Estimated†Median: $271,500 per year (adjusted for Philadelphia cost of living)
Junior
$144,000
0-2 yrs
Mid-Level
$213,000
3-5 yrs
Senior
$330,000
6+ yrs
| City | Mid-Level Median | Cost of Living |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia, PA | $213,000 | high |
| New York, NY | $257,375 | very high |
| Los Angeles, CA | $257,375 | very high |
| Chicago, IL | $213,000 | high |
| Houston, TX | $177,500 | moderate |
| Phoenix, AZ | $177,500 | moderate |