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The 10 Best States for Aircraft Mechanics in 2026
Aircraft mechanics play a crucial role in the aviation industry, ensuring the safety and functionality of aircraft. This profession is widespread across the United States, with opportunities available in every state, rather than being limited to just a few regions.
As the demand for aviation services continues to grow, we at Zippia have analyzed the latest data to identify the best states for aircraft mechanics in 2026. Our goal is to highlight where mechanics can find ample job opportunities and competitive salaries throughout their careers.
By examining data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), we have compiled a list of states that provide the best conditions for aircraft mechanics.
Here are the top states for aircraft mechanics in 2026:
These states excel in providing opportunities for aircraft mechanics and service technicians, making them prime destinations for aspiring professionals in the field.
Curious about how we determined these rankings? Read on for insights into our methodology and a closer look at each state.
For further exploration of job opportunities, check out the following links:
- Best Companies to Work For in Louisville
- The 100 Highest Paying Jobs in Kentucky
- The 100 Largest Companies in Kentucky
How We Determined the Best States for Aircraft Mechanics
At Zippia, we engage with professionals from diverse backgrounds seeking career opportunities. Our research reveals that two key factors are essential for job seekers:
- Availability of jobs
- Competitive compensation
To identify the best states for aircraft mechanics, we analyzed job availability and salary data, using criteria from the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Employment Statistics:
- Location quotient: A measure of how prevalent a job is in a given state.
- Average annual salary.
- Average annual salary for entry-level positions.
- Average annual salary for experienced professionals.
To ensure a fair comparison across states, we adjusted salary figures based on the cost of living in each state. This approach highlights how far a salary may go in covering essential expenses. For instance, while the average salary for aircraft mechanics in California is $70,750, the same salary in Illinois, which has a lower cost of living, can provide a better quality of life.
We ranked each state based on these criteria, with the overall Job Score determining the best state based on the lowest score.
Now, let’s delve into the details of each state that stands out for aircraft mechanics.
1. Kentucky
Total Jobs: 2,930
Average Annual Salary: $79,590
Average Entry Level Salary: $44,980
Average Experienced Salary: $127,820
Location Quotient: 1.71
2. Georgia
Total Jobs: 8,800
Average Annual Salary: $76,310
Average Entry Level Salary: $45,220
Average Experienced Salary: $106,650
Location Quotient: 2.2
3. Nevada
Total Jobs: 1,730
Average Annual Salary: $78,380
Average Entry Level Salary: $55,220
Average Experienced Salary: $113,390
Location Quotient: 1.41
4. Texas
Total Jobs: 17,160
Average Annual Salary: $63,860
Average Entry Level Salary: $36,580
Average Experienced Salary: $96,380
Location Quotient: 1.56
5. Utah
Total Jobs: 2,220
Average Annual Salary: $60,770
Average Entry Level Salary: $42,430
Average Experienced Salary: $82,120
Location Quotient: 1.68
6. Colorado
Total Jobs: 1,890
Average Annual Salary: $73,130
Average Entry Level Salary: $42,170
Average Experienced Salary: $103,500
Location Quotient: 0.79
7. Missouri
Total Jobs: 1,860
Average Annual Salary: $62,490
Average Entry Level Salary: $37,210
Average Experienced Salary: $93,920
Location Quotient: 0.73
8. North Carolina
Total Jobs: 4,150
Average Annual Salary: $60,820
Average Entry Level Salary: $36,400
Average Experienced Salary: $93,940
Location Quotient: 1.04
9. Washington
Total Jobs: 5,320
Average Annual Salary: $68,140
Average Entry Level Salary: $37,520
Average Experienced Salary: $101,210
Location Quotient: 1.8
10. Kansas
Total Jobs: 1,460
Average Annual Salary: $56,840
Average Entry Level Salary: $39,370
Average Experienced Salary: $75,190
Location Quotient: 1.17
Conclusion: The Best States for Aircraft Mechanics
If you’re embarking on a career as an aircraft mechanic, these states should be at the top of your list. They offer high salaries, abundant job opportunities, and potential for career growth.
Additionally, here are some of the states where aircraft mechanics may face challenges:
Detailed List of the Best States for Aircraft Mechanics
| Rank | State | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kentucky | $79,590 |
| 2 | Georgia | $76,310 |
| 3 | Nevada | $78,380 |
| 4 | Texas | $63,860 |
| 5 | Utah | $60,770 |
| 6 | Colorado | $73,130 |
| 7 | Missouri | $62,490 |
| 8 | North Carolina | $60,820 |
| 9 | Washington | $68,140 |
| 10 | Kansas | $56,840 |
| 11 | Florida | $63,040 |
| 12 | Louisiana | $60,340 |
| 13 | Illinois | $63,840 |
| 14 | Ohio | $59,490 |
| 15 | Michigan | $58,350 |
| 16 | Arizona | $62,280 |
| 17 | Wyoming | $58,390 |
| 18 | Virginia | $67,000 |
| 19 | Pennsylvania | $66,830 |
| 20 | Idaho | $54,960 |
| 21 | Tennessee | $58,170 |
| 22 | Delaware | $62,250 |
| 23 | South Carolina | $62,120 |
| 24 | Maryland | $72,650 |
| 25 | Minnesota | $62,050 |
| 26 | New Mexico | $62,140 |
| 27 | North Dakota | $57,360 |
| 28 | Connecticut | $78,240 |
| 29 | Iowa | $55,940 |
| 30 | Montana | $55,900 |
| 31 | Alaska | $67,400 |
| 32 | New Jersey | $69,090 |
| 33 | Arkansas | $51,150 |
| 34 | West Virginia | $54,220 |
| 35 | Oregon | $61,090 |
| 36 | Wisconsin | $53,360 |
| 37 | South Dakota | $53,730 |
| 38 | California | $70,750 |
| 39 | Indiana | $49,090 |
| 40 | Hawaii | $65,260 |
| 41 | Vermont | $60,280 |
| 42 | New York | $67,840 |
| 43 | Massachusetts | $67,420 |
| 44 | New Hampshire | $57,270 |
| 45 | Nebraska | $46,180 |
| 46 | Maine | $51,570 |
| 47 | Rhode Island | $51,670 |
Author
Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
