Elizabeth vs Newark: Electrical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare electrical engineer salaries between Elizabeth, NJ and Newark, NJ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Elizabeth, NJ | Newark, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $145,357▲ | $133,221 |
| Hourly Rate | $69.88▲ | $64.05 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $95,877▲ | $77,268 |
| 25th Percentile | $114,245▲ | $103,562 |
| 75th Percentile | $186,057▲ | $170,523 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $225,303▲ | $206,494 |
| Total Employed | 25 | 61▲ |
Verdict
Elizabeth, NJ offers better overall compensation for electrical engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Newark.
The salary gap between Elizabeth and Newark is $12,136 (9.11%). Elizabeth's median is +16.25% compared to the US national median of $125,033.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Elizabeth spans $129,426,Newark spans $129,226. Elizabeth has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Elizabeth ($126,178 effective) pays 9.11% more than Newark ($115,643 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Elizabeth if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($145,357/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($225,303)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $126,178)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Choose Newark if…
- ✓Larger job market (61 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, electrical engineer salaries in Elizabeth grew -5.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -17.1% growth in Newark over the same period.
Elizabeth, NJ
$148,805 (2024) → $140,238 (2025)
Newark, NJ
$155,058 (2024) → $128,530 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Elizabeth, NJ
Newark, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays electrical engineers more: Elizabeth or Newark?
What is the hourly rate difference between Elizabeth and Newark?
Should I relocate from Elizabeth to Newark as a electrical engineer?
What do entry-level electrical engineers earn in Elizabeth vs Newark?
Written by Amina Patel, MEng, PE
Career Analyst
Amina has over 10 years of experience in power systems engineering. She works at a utility company specializing in renewable energy integration.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.65% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Amina Patel, MEng, PE, a licensed electrical engineer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov