Below is a guide to 15 top cities (a mix of major metros and strong mid-sized hubs) for Electrical Engineers. For each city, key employers, typical salaries (entry-level vs mid-career), education opportunities, cost of living, and quality of life are outlined.
Jobs in San Francisco Bay Area (Silicon Valley), CA
Top Employers: The Silicon Valley region hosts many of the world’s largest tech corporations. Companies like Google, Apple, Cisco Systems, Intel, and Tesla are major employers of electrical engineers. (San Jose is home to Cisco, Adobe, etc.) Countless startups and semiconductor firms also offer opportunities.
Average Salary: Entry-level: ~$85k. Mid-career: ~$130k+. The San Jose/Silicon Valley metro is the highest-paying in the nation for EEs (average around $132,740 per year). New grads in the Bay Area often start near $80–90k, and experienced engineers earn well into six figures.
Education Opportunities: Home to top-ranked engineering schools like Stanford University and UC Berkeley, which offer excellent EE programs and professional networks. Local universities such as San Jose State University also produce many industry-ready EE graduates. Professional meetups and Silicon Valley IEEE chapters provide ongoing development.
Cost of Living: Very high. The Bay Area is one of the priciest U.S. regions – San Francisco’s cost of living index is ~90.5 (with New York City = 100). Housing costs are among the top 5 most expensive in the world. Expect steep rent or home prices and higher taxes than most areas.
Quality of Life: Innovative, tech-driven culture with a mild Mediterranean climate. The region is diverse and affluent, offering rich cultural amenities and outdoor activities (from Pacific beaches to redwood forests). Traffic congestion and high housing costs are notable downsides, but overall the Bay Area provides a dynamic lifestyle for tech professionals.
Jobs in Seattle, WA
Top Employers: Seattle is a major tech and aerospace hub. Boeing (commercial airplanes), Microsoft, Amazon (devices and robotics teams), and space ventures like Blue Origin are big EE employers. The region’s electric utility and networking companies (e.g. Fluke, PACCAR) also hire EEs.
Average Salary: Entry-level: ~$75k. Mid-career: ~$115–120k. Seattle-area electrical engineers average about $117,580 annually, reflecting the high-tech salaries (helped by no state income tax). Newer engineers often start in the high-$70k range, climbing to well over $100k with experience.
Education Opportunities: University of Washington offers a top-notch EE program, and Seattle University and others provide engineering degrees. The city’s strong IEEE section and tech community (meetups, conferences) support ongoing learning. Many employers offer tuition assistance for grad programs at UW or nearby schools.
Cost of Living: High. Seattle ranks as the 8th most expensive city globally. Housing and consumer prices are well above U.S. averages. However, Washington State has no state income tax, which helps increase take-home pay. Expect expensive real estate, especially in Seattle and Bellevue, though slightly less than Silicon Valley or NYC.
Quality of Life: Seattle offers a blend of urban and outdoor life – residents enjoy proximity to mountains, forests, and Puget Sound waterways. The city is known for its coffee culture, arts scene, and generally progressive, clean environment. The climate is mild but famously rainy. Public transit is decent (expanding light rail and bus network), and crime rates are moderate. Overall, Seattle’s strong economy and natural beauty contribute to a high quality of life for engineers.
Jobs in Austin, TX
Top Employers: Austin’s booming tech sector has major employers like Dell Technologies (HQ), Apple (building a new campus with thousands of jobs), IBM, Samsung (semiconductor fab), NXP Semiconductors, and numerous startups. Defense and energy firms also have a presence.
Average Salary: Entry-level: ~$75k. Mid-career: ~$100k. Texas electrical engineers average around $101k statewide, and Austin’s tech salaries are on par. Entry-level EEs often start in the low $70k range, while seasoned engineers (~5–10 years) make around six figures.
Education Opportunities: University of Texas at Austin is a top engineering school supplying local talent and offering continuing education (e.g. part-time MSEE programs). There’s also Texas State (in nearby San Marcos) and UT’s Extension programs. Austin’s vibrant tech community (meetups, conferences like SXSW) provides many learning and networking opportunities.
Cost of Living: Moderate. Austin’s cost of living is lower than coastal tech hubs. There’s no state income tax in Texas, and housing, while rising, remains cheaper than in California. Expect overall costs roughly around the U.S. average (Texas median cost ~$75k vs national) – affordable compared to Silicon Valley but higher than other Texas cities.
Quality of Life: Austin is often rated one of the best cities for young professionals. It’s known as the “Live Music Capital” (with festivals like SXSW and ACL), has a fun foodie scene, and ample outdoor activities (parks, biking, lakes). Summers are hot and humid, and traffic congestion has increased with the city’s rapid growth. However, Austin maintains a mix of a laid-back, creative culture with the opportunities of a growing tech hub.
Jobs in Boston, MA
Top Employers: Boston and its suburbs host many tech and engineering firms. Raytheon Technologies (headquartered nearby, major defense systems employer), General Electric (global HQ in Boston), and robotics/medical device companies (Boston Dynamics, Philips, etc.) are key employers. The area’s power and utility companies and research labs (MIT Lincoln Lab, Draper) also hire lots of EEs.
Average Salary: Entry-level: ~$70k. Mid-career: ~$110k. Massachusetts EEs earn about $113,920 on average – among the highest by state. In Boston, new EE grads often start in the high-$60k/low-$70k range, with mid-career engineers around the $105–120k mark (higher in defense or biotech hardware roles).
Education Opportunities: Greater Boston is rich in education. MIT and Harvard (SEAS) are world-renowned for engineering. Other strong programs include Northeastern University (known for its co-op program) and Boston University. These schools offer abundant research, networking, and professional development options (evening courses, certificate programs) for engineers in the area.
Cost of Living: Very high. Boston consistently ranks among the most expensive U.S. cities (Cost Index ~83.7 vs NYC=100). Housing is extremely costly (whether in the city or the close suburbs), and everyday expenses and Massachusetts taxes add to the burden. Living farther out or with roommates is common to mitigate costs.
Quality of Life: A historic city with a strong academic and cultural atmosphere. Boston offers excellent public transit (the “T” subway), walkable neighborhoods, and rich culture (museums, theaters, sports teams). The region boasts top hospitals and schools, contributing to a high overall quality-of-life score. Winters are cold and snowy, and traffic can be tough, but many find the intellectual environment and New England charm worth it.
Jobs in New York, NY
Top Employers: The NYC metro has a broad range of EE employers. Major power/utilities (e.g. Con Edison), telecommunications giants (Verizon), transportation authorities (MTA), and financial tech firms all hire electrical engineers. Additionally, nearby technology centers (e.g. IBM in suburban NY/NJ) and defense contractors on Long Island contribute to the job market. With ~7,980 electrical engineers employed, the NYC area has one of the highest EE job counts in the country.
Average Salary: Entry-level: ~$65–70k. Mid-career: ~$85–95k. The NYC metro’s average EE salary is about $86,700 per year, which is close to the national median. Entry-level engineers often start in the mid-$60k range in New York. Those with 5–10 years experience and a P.E. license can earn around the $90k+ level, with higher figures in specialized industries (finance tech or consulting).
Education Opportunities: NYC is home to top schools like Columbia University and NYU Tandon School of Engineering, as well as the highly respected Cooper Union. These institutions offer strong EE programs and part-time graduate degrees for working professionals. The city also has many professional societies (IEEE NYC section, NY Academy of Sciences) hosting seminars, and ample evening courses for skills like fintech, data center engineering, etc.
Cost of Living: Extremely high. New York City is the baseline for cost-of-living (Index 100) and remains one of the most expensive cities in the U.S. for housing, transportation, and everything in between. Rent and real estate are notoriously expensive (often the highest in the nation), and taxes are high. Many entry-level engineers live with roommates or in outer boroughs/commutable suburbs to save on rent.
Quality of Life: New York offers unparalleled cultural and career opportunities. Museums, theaters, restaurants, and nightlife are world-class and basically endless. The city’s 24/7 public transportation is a huge plus for getting around without a car. On the downside, the cost of living and fast-paced lifestyle can be challenging. Apartment space is at a premium, and the daily commute can be crowded. Crime in New York has fallen greatly from past decades, making it relatively safe for a city its size. For an electrical engineer, NYC’s infrastructure and energy projects can be exciting, and the vibrant city life is a unique draw.
Jobs in Los Angeles, CA
Top Employers: LA’s economy is diverse, with a strong aerospace and defense sector. Northrop Grumman (building spacecraft and aircraft), SpaceX (rockets and satellites in Hawthorne), Boeing (El Segundo and Long Beach facilities), and JPL/NASA (Pasadena) all employ many EEs. In addition, utilities like Southern California Edison and the entertainment industry (studios need broadcast and AV engineers) contribute to EE demand.
Average Salary: Entry-level: ~$70–75k. Mid-career: ~$100k. The Los Angeles area’s average EE salary is about $102,860 per year. New graduates typically start in the $70k range, and mid-career engineers (with ~5–10 years of experience) commonly earn low six-figures. Niche fields like aerospace often pay a premium, especially with security clearances.
Education Opportunities: LA boasts several top engineering schools: Caltech (world-famous, in Pasadena), UCLA, and USC all have strong EE programs and research (Caltech and UCLA are consistently top-ranked). There are also Cal State campuses (Long Beach, Northridge, etc.) for more applied programs. These universities provide a talent pipeline and offer extension courses/certificates in areas like power systems, VLSI, and entertainment engineering.
Cost of Living: High. Los Angeles ranks among the most expensive U.S. cities (it was #9 globally in a 2024 survey). Housing costs are very high in desirable neighborhoods, and overall cost-of-living is well above the U.S. average. However, when compared to San Francisco or New York, LA’s housing can be slightly more affordable. Commutes can be long, so many engineers choose to live in lower-cost suburbs and drive in.
Quality of Life: LA offers a famous warm climate (sunny days, mild winters) and lifestyle perks like beaches, hiking in nearby mountains, and year-round outdoor activities. Culturally, it’s a center for entertainment, with abundant dining, arts, and music scenes. The trade-off is dealing with severe traffic congestion – the city is very car-dependent. Public transit exists (metro rail and buses) but coverage is limited relative to the sprawl. Air quality has improved from decades past but can still be an issue. Overall, the region’s mix of career opportunities and leisure (surf in the morning, ski in the afternoon, as the saying goes) is hard to beat if one can manage the cost and commute.
Washington, D.C. (DC/NoVA Metro)
Top Employers: The DC metro (including Northern Virginia and Maryland suburbs) is rich in government and defense jobs. Major employers include the U.S. Department of Defense and its contractors – Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, General Dynamics, BAE Systems – who work on military electronics, satellites, and communications. Civil agencies like NASA Goddard (in MD) and NIST hire EEs, as do local power utilities (Pepco, Dominion) and consulting firms.
Average Salary: Entry-level: ~$75k. Mid-career: ~$105–120k. The DC area is one of the top-paying markets for electrical engineers, with averages around $100–$125k per year. Entry-level engineers often start in the mid/high-$70k range, but salaries climb quickly with experience, especially if you obtain a clearance to work on defense projects (which commands a premium).
Education Opportunities: The region has many universities – University of Maryland (College Park) has a renowned EE program, and schools like George Washington University, Virginia Tech (Northern VA campus), and Johns Hopkins (APL, in MD) offer graduate programs catering to working engineers. The presence of government agencies means lots of technical seminars and conferences in the area. Professional development can also be pursued via organizations like IEEE-USA (headquartered in DC) and governmental training centers.
Cost of Living: Very high. Washington, DC, and its suburbs have a high cost of living, particularly for housing. The DC area was ranked the #7 most expensive city globally in one 2024 index. Living close to the city center is costly; many live in outer suburbs for affordability (at the expense of a long commute). Virginia and Maryland also have state income taxes on top of DC costs.
Quality of Life: The capital region offers a mix of metropolitan and suburban lifestyles. On the plus side, the area has excellent public transit (Metrorail and buses), abundant free cultural institutions (Smithsonian museums, national monuments), and a highly educated population. The job market is very stable due to government presence. Crime is relatively low in the federal core but can vary by neighborhood. Summers are hot and humid, and traffic on the Beltway and I-95 is notorious. Still, many find DC rewarding for its rich history, diverse international culture, and access to parks (Chesapeake Bay, Shenandoah mountains for weekend getaways).
Jobs in Houston, TX
Top Employers: Houston is an energy and space industry powerhouse. Oil & gas companies like ExxonMobil, Chevron, Shell, and Schlumberger employ EEs for power systems, controls, and instrumentation. The NASA Johnson Space Center (and contractors like Boeing, Jacobs, KBR) is a major engineering employer in the area. The city also has power utilities (CenterPoint Energy) and growing renewable energy and petrochemical industries needing electrical engineers.
Average Salary: Entry-level: ~$70k. Mid-career: ~$95–105k. Texas averages around $101k for EEs, and Houston often offers some of the highest pay in the state (especially in oil & gas). An early-career EE can expect around $70–80k, and mid-career around or above $100k, with the petrochemical sector typically paying top dollar (sometimes supplemented by bonuses for site or offshore work).
Education Opportunities: The region’s top school is Rice University, which has an elite engineering program and offers part-time master’s degrees. University of Houston also produces many engineering graduates and offers evening courses geared toward professionals. Texas A&M (a bit farther but influential in Houston’s job market) has a strong alumni network in town. Many oil companies provide on-site training and sponsor employees for courses on power systems, control systems, and project management.
Cost of Living: Low to Moderate. Houston stands out among big cities for its affordability. The cost of living is ~38% lower than New York City on average, and about 5–6% below U.S. national average overall. Housing in particular is inexpensive – Houston’s lack of zoning means plentiful housing supply and lower prices than most metros its size. Groceries and services are also relatively cheap, though property taxes can be high (makes up for no state income tax).
Quality of Life: Houston offers big-city amenities with a Southern twist. It’s one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the U.S., leading to a fantastic array of cuisines and cultural festivals. The region’s economy is strong, and there’s a high tolerance for newcomers (many people move here for jobs). On the flip side, the city is very sprawling and car-dependent – commutes can be lengthy, and public transit (while improving with METRO rail/bus) is limited. Summers are extremely hot and humid, and the area is prone to hurricanes/heavy rain (flood control is a concern). That said, mild winters and a cost-friendly lifestyle make Houston attractive for many engineers starting out.
Jobs in Dallas–Fort Worth (Metroplex), TX
Top Employers: The DFW Metroplex has a robust electrical engineering job market. In Dallas, notable employers include Texas Instruments (semiconductor R&D and manufacturing), AT&T (telecom HQ), and Raytheon (major defense electronics offices). In Fort Worth, Lockheed Martin’s giant Aeronautics plant (where F-35 fighter jets are built) employs thousands of engineers. Other employers range from telecom/mobile firms, data center companies, to utility TXU/Oncor and engineering design firms.
Average Salary: Entry-level: ~$70k. Mid-career: ~$100k. Dallas-area salaries are on par with Houston – Texas EEs average ~$101k, and Dallas is noted for offering some of the highest pay in the state. An entry-level EE might start around $70k in Dallas, and mid-career engineers often see around $95–110k. (Defense and telecom sectors here tend to pay well, especially for those with specialized skills or M.S. degrees.)
Education Opportunities: The Metroplex has several engineering universities. UT Dallas and UT Arlington have solid engineering programs (with growing reputation in EE and CE), and Southern Methodist University (SMU) has a well-regarded evening engineering master’s program for working professionals. Engineers in Dallas can also benefit from the presence of the IEEE Dallas section and tech meetups around the Telecom Corridor. Texas A&M and UT Austin grads frequently work in Dallas, and alumni networks for those schools are active here.
Cost of Living: Moderate. Dallas’s cost of living has been creeping up but is still around the national average. Recent analyses put Dallas at about 102% of the U.S. average (i.e. ~2% higher), due largely to rising housing costs. Housing is cheaper than in coastal cities (and no state income tax helps), but not as cheap as it was a decade ago – renting a place downtown or in trendy neighborhoods can be pricey. Overall, living in Dallas is affordable relative to incomes, especially if one lives slightly outside the city center.
Quality of Life: The Dallas–Fort Worth area offers a blend of big-city and suburban living. You’ll find major sports teams, arts (Dallas Arts District, Fort Worth’s museums), and a thriving restaurant scene. The region is very spread out; many engineers live in suburban communities with good schools and commute via the extensive highway network. Public transit is limited (Dallas has a light rail but coverage is spotty given the sprawl). Summers are hot, but winters are mild (with an occasional ice storm). The Metroplex’s central U.S. location (DFW Airport as a major hub) makes travel convenient. Overall, DFW provides a high standard of living with a comparatively low cost for those in engineering careers.
Jobs in Raleigh-Durham (Research Triangle), NC
Top Employers: The Research Triangle area (Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill) is a renowned tech hub anchored by Research Triangle Park (RTP). Key employers include IBM (large campus in RTP), Cisco Systems, and other tech firms like Lenovo (US HQ) and Red Hat. The region is also growing in electronics manufacturing – for instance, Wolfspeed (Cree) in Durham. Additionally, an Apple campus is slated to open in the coming years, bringing more EE jobs. Utilities (Duke Energy) and networking/telecom companies round out the opportunities.
Average Salary: Entry-level: ~$65k. Mid-career: ~$95k. North Carolina electrical engineers earn about $97,500 on average, and the Triangle’s salaries are around this mark. Entry-level EEs might see offers in the low-to-mid $60k range (the cost of living is lower here), and mid-career engineers around ~$90–100k. While pay is a bit lower than Silicon Valley or Northeast cities, it is balanced by lower expenses.
Education Opportunities: The Triangle is loaded with educational resources. NC State University in Raleigh has an excellent EE program (particularly known for power electronics and networking) and offers part-time graduate degrees. Nearby Duke University and UNC Chapel Hill (more focused on computer and biomedical engineering) also contribute to the talent pool. The presence of these universities means plenty of guest lectures, tech talks, and collaboration opportunities. The area also has the North Carolina Biotechnology Center and many startups, so networking events and workshops are common.
Cost of Living: Moderate/Low. Raleigh’s cost of living is roughly 33% lower than New York’s (excluding rent) and generally below the U.S. average. Housing is quite affordable – you can rent a nice apartment or even buy a home at a fraction of what it would cost in Boston or DC. The region’s overall cost is creeping up due to population growth, but it remains one of the more affordable tech hubs.
Quality of Life: The Triangle offers an attractive quality of life, often ranking highly in “best places to live” lists. It has a pleasant, mild climate (with four distinct seasons but relatively short winters). The area combines a small-city feel with amenities like well-regarded restaurants, music venues, and college sports. Crime rates are low, and there are lots of parks/greenways for outdoor activities. On weekends, the mountains and beaches of North Carolina are just a few hours’ drive away. Public transportation is still developing, so a car is useful. Overall, Raleigh-Durham is family-friendly, safe, and a growing hotspot for tech professionals seeking balance between work and life.
Jobs in Huntsville, AL
Top Employers: Known as “Rocket City,” Huntsville punches above its weight in engineering. The huge Redstone Arsenal and NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center are the anchor employers – together they attract a high concentration of electrical engineers in aerospace and defense. Contractors such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Dynetics have major operations here to support NASA and the U.S. Army (Huntsville has 9.7 EEs per 1,000 jobs, one of the highest concentrations in the U.S.). Additionally, Huntsville houses Cummings Research Park with tech companies and federal research labs, and even auto manufacturers (Toyota/Mazda) have opened plants nearby.
Average Salary: Entry-level: ~$70k. Mid-career: ~$95–100k. Huntsville’s electrical engineers have an average salary around $97,173 per year – notably high given the low cost of living. New engineering grads might start in the upper $60k range, and mid-level engineers often make close to six figures. The presence of many federal jobs means salaries follow GS pay scales; experienced engineers or contractors can do very well, especially with advanced clearances.
Education Opportunities: University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) is a strong engineering school located in the city, closely tied to the aerospace/defense industry (UAH offers specialized programs in propulsion, control systems, etc., and many NASA engineers teach or guest-lecture). UAH and local community colleges also provide professional education and certificates (like in radar engineering or systems engineering) useful for Redstone projects. There’s a robust culture of continued learning via NASA training programs and Army educational outreach; plus, Alabama A&M University offers engineering degrees, contributing to workforce diversity.
Cost of Living: Low. Huntsville is one of the most affordable tech-centric cities in America. Its housing costs and general expenses are significantly below national averages – for example, the cost of living in Raleigh, NC is ~9% higher than in Huntsville, illustrating Huntsville’s affordability. Renting or buying a home is relatively easy on an engineer’s salary (median home prices and rents are far less than in larger cities). This affordability is a major reason Huntsville was rated the #1 Best Place to Live in 2022.
Quality of Life: Huntsville offers a comfortable, family-friendly lifestyle with a strong focus on science and community. It was ranked the #1 metro to live in the U.S. (2022–23) due to its mix of low cost and high quality of life. Crime rates are low, schools are solid (boosted by the educated populace), and there’s a surprising amount of culture for a city its size (symphony, museums, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center). Outdoor recreation is accessible – mountains and lakes are nearby in North Alabama, and the city has greenways for biking/hiking. The pace of life is slower than big cities, which many find appealing. The tradeoff is that Huntsville is smaller and more isolated than a major metro (Nashville and Atlanta are a few hours away). For many engineers, however, the chance to work on exciting space and defense projects while enjoying an affordable, safe community makes Huntsville very attractive.
Jobs in Phoenix, AZ
Top Employers: Phoenix has become a burgeoning center for electronics and aerospace. Intel has large semiconductor fabrication campuses in suburban Chandler, employing thousands of EEs in chip design and manufacturing. TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor) is also building a massive new fab facility, promising many engineering jobs. Aerospace companies are big employers as well: Honeywell Aerospace and Boeing (which produces helicopters in Mesa) hire electrical and avionics engineers. Additionally, utilities like APS (Arizona Public Service) and SRP, as well as defense contractor Raytheon (in nearby Tucson), contribute to opportunities in the region.
Average Salary: Entry-level: ~$65k. Mid-career: ~$100k. Arizona’s average EE salary is about $106,260 per year, on par with the national average. In Phoenix, entry-level electrical engineers often start in the low-to-mid $60,000s (higher for those in cutting-edge semiconductor roles). Mid-career professionals tend to earn around the high $90k to $110k range. Notably, as the semiconductor industry expands, highly skilled wafer process and design engineers can earn well above these averages.
Education Opportunities: The Phoenix area’s flagship school is Arizona State University (ASU) in Tempe, which has one of the nation’s largest engineering colleges. ASU produces a steady pipeline of EE graduates and offers evening master’s programs in electrical engineering, which many local professionals attend. The university also hosts research centers in power electronics and nanofabrication that partner with industry. Additionally, there are training programs funded by new employers (for instance, partnerships to train workers for TSMC’s fab). Professional societies like the IEEE Phoenix section and the Arizona Technology Council hold workshops and networking events as well.
Cost of Living: Moderate. Phoenix’s cost of living is close to the U.S. average – roughly 2–4% above the national average by recent estimates. This represents an increase in cost as the city has grown (housing prices have climbed with an influx of new residents). Still, compared to California or the Northeast, Phoenix is affordable: housing is markedly cheaper than in Los Angeles (LA rents are ~60% higher than Phoenix’s). Phoenix also has relatively low taxes. One thing to note is higher summer utility bills (air conditioning is a must for the desert heat). Overall, an engineer’s salary goes a long way here, especially in the suburbs.
Quality of Life: Phoenix offers a warm, sunny climate (300+ days of sun) and a casual, outdoor-oriented lifestyle. Winters are superb – mild temperatures and clear skies attract many “snowbird” seasonal residents. Outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and golf are popular (Phoenix has expansive desert preserves and is a few hours from the Grand Canyon). Summers, however, are extremely hot (100°F+ for many days); life in air-conditioned spaces is the norm during those months. The metro area is car-centric, with wide highways (traffic is not as bad as in LA, but the city is spread out). Culturally, Phoenix has been growing: there’s a developing downtown arts scene and major sports teams. It may not have the extensive cultural offerings of older big cities, but it does provide a high quality of life for those who enjoy the climate and outdoor opportunities.
Jobs in San Diego, CA
Top Employers: San Diego has a strong concentration in telecommunications, defense, and biotech hardware. Qualcomm (headquartered in SD) is one of the largest EE employers, designing mobile chipsets and wireless technologies. Defense-related organizations are huge: Northrop Grumman, General Atomics (and its subdivision GA Aeronautical Systems), and the U.S. Navy’s SPAWAR center (NAVWAR) all hire many electrical engineers. Other notable employers include Cubic Corporation (defense communications), San Diego Gas & Electric (utility), and a variety of smaller firms in drone tech, solar energy, and biomedical devices.
Average Salary: Entry-level: ~$75k. Mid-career: ~$100–110k. The average base salary for EEs in San Diego is about $100,000 per year. Entry-level positions tend to start in the low-to-mid $70k range (higher for those at big companies like Qualcomm). By mid-career (5-10 years), salaries often reach the low $100ks. San Diego’s defense companies in particular may offer higher-end salaries (with additional compensation for those with security clearances).
Education Opportunities: University of California, San Diego (UCSD) is a top-tier engineering school in La Jolla, known for telecommunications and signal processing research, and supplies many graduates to local industry. UCSD Extension offers certificate programs in areas like embedded systems and VLSI design for working engineers. San Diego State University also has a solid EE program with strong ties to the local utility and defense firms. With the high concentration of wireless and defense industries, San Diego engineers benefit from local conferences (like the annual IEEE MILCOM) and an active IEEE chapter for professional development.
Cost of Living: High. San Diego’s cost of living is on par with other coastal California cities – well above the national average. Housing is expensive (though generally a bit less than Los Angeles or Bay Area). Overall consumer prices and taxes make San Diego a costly place to live, which can eat into the relatively high salaries. For example, renting a one-bedroom in the city can easily cost 50%+ more than an equivalent in a midwestern city. Many find housing in suburbs like Oceanside or Chula Vista to save money.
Quality of Life: Many consider San Diego’s quality of life to be exceptional, thanks to its near-perfect climate (warm, dry summers and mild winters moderated by the Pacific) and beautiful coastline. The city is famed for its beaches (surfing, sailing), parks (Balboa Park with the famous zoo), and an overall laid-back Southern California vibe. It’s a very active city – you’ll find engineers who leave work to go kayaking or biking year-round. Culturally, San Diego has a more relaxed scene: there are museums, theater, and nightlife, though not as extensive as LA or SF. The city is relatively clean and family-friendly, and crime rates are generally low. Public transit exists (trolley and buses) but many still rely on cars. In short, San Diego offers a beachy, relaxed lifestyle that many engineers find highly rewarding, provided they can manage the cost of living.
Jobs in Chicago, IL
Top Employers: Chicago, the largest city in the Midwest, has a diverse industrial base that includes several key employers for electrical engineers. Motorola Solutions, which develops communications and public safety technology, is headquartered in the area and is a long-time EE employer. Exelon/ComEd, the local electric utility, employs EEs for power grid operations. The city’s transportation sector (CTA transit, railroads) also hires EEs for signal systems and infrastructure. Additionally, Chicago is home to numerous engineering design consulting firms and manufacturing companies. (Boeing’s corporate HQ was in Chicago until 2022, and while most Boeing engineering is elsewhere, its presence signified the region’s importance; Caterpillar recently moved its HQ to the Chicago suburbs as well.) In summary, Chicago offers EE roles in sectors from telecommunications to energy to automation.
Average Salary: Entry-level: ~$65k. Mid-career: ~$95k. Illinois electrical engineers average about $94,700 annually, and Chicago salaries align with that. Entry-level EEs in Chicago land around the mid-$60k range. With several years of experience or a P.E. license, mid-career pay in core engineering roles is in the $90–100k range. Certain niches like power distribution or specialty consulting can push higher. (While Chicago’s salaries aren’t the very highest in the country, the slightly lower cost of living means engineers enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.)
Education Opportunities: The Chicago area has multiple universities for engineering. Northwestern University (just north of the city) has a highly ranked engineering school and offers part-time graduate degrees that many working engineers pursue. Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) in Chicago focuses on engineering and has evening master’s programs in EE, Power Engineering, etc. University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) also graduates many EEs and conducts research in electronics and computer engineering. Beyond degree programs, Chicago has a strong professional network – IEEE Chicago is one of the oldest sections, and there are frequent technical talks and workshops. The proximity of national labs (like Argonne, Fermilab) and the thriving startup scene (especially in IoT and fintech hardware) provide additional learning opportunities.
Cost of Living: Moderate-High. Chicago is somewhat expensive by national standards, though cheaper than coastal metros. It ranks as the 10th most expensive city in the world on some recent lists, largely due to urban living costs. In practice, day-to-day expenses (food, transit) are reasonable, but housing can vary: downtown condos and trendy neighborhoods are pricey, whereas many suburbs or less central areas are quite affordable. The cost-of-living index for Chicago is around 73 (NYC=100), indicating it’s about 25–30% cheaper than New York overall. Illinois has relatively high property taxes, but that often comes with more affordable home prices. For an engineer, living comfortably in Chicago is feasible, especially if you consider the option of suburban living with a commute via Metra train.
Quality of Life: Chicago offers big-city living with a midwestern feel. It boasts world-class museums (Field Museum, Museum of Science & Industry), a famous music and theater scene, and is known as a global architecture capital. The city’s public transportation (CTA trains and buses) is extensive for the U.S., making it possible to live without a car in many areas. Summers in Chicago are delightful, with festivals, lakefront activities on Lake Michigan, and baseball games at Wrigley Field. Winters, however, are very cold and snowy, which is a major adjustment for some. Chicago has faced challenges with crime in certain neighborhoods, but the downtown and North Side areas where many professionals live and work are relatively safe. The metro area’s suburbs offer top-ranked schools and family-friendly communities. All in all, Chicago provides a balance of a robust job market, cultural richness, and (comparatively) reasonable cost – a compelling choice for many electrical engineers in the Midwest.
Jobs in Atlanta, GA
Top Employers: Atlanta is an economic hub of the Southeast with opportunities across several industries. In the energy sector, Southern Company (Georgia Power) is a major utility headquartered in Atlanta, employing EEs in power generation and distribution. Lockheed Martin runs a large aerospace plant in Marietta (just outside Atlanta) building military aircraft, which hires many electrical and systems engineers. AT&T has a significant presence (Atlanta was the home of BellSouth and remains one of AT&T’s key offices, particularly for mobility/wireless operations). Other important employers include NCR (financial/payment hardware), Siemens (which has an energy and medical imaging presence), and a growing number of data centers and fintech companies. The CDC in Atlanta also hires EEs for its facilities and equipment, and the city’s large broadcasting/media companies need broadcast engineers.
Average Salary: Entry-level: ~$70–$75k. Mid-career: ~$100k. In Georgia, the average EE salary is about $87,850, but Atlanta proper tends to pay higher than the state average. Indeed reports an average around $108,700 for Atlanta EEs (likely skewed by experienced positions). A reasonable expectation for a new grad in Atlanta is somewhere in the high $60k to low $70k range (often a bit higher if working for a big name like Lockheed or AT&T). Mid-career engineers commonly make around $90k–$105k, with the potential for more in senior or specialized roles. Notably, Atlanta salaries go further given the city’s moderate cost of living.
Education Opportunities: Atlanta is home to Georgia Tech, one of the top engineering universities in the country, which is a huge asset to local engineers. Georgia Tech offers evening master’s programs in ECE and has a strong co-op program pairing students with local companies (many Georgia Tech grads stay in Atlanta, creating a robust alumni network). The city also has Georgia State and Kennesaw State with engineering technology programs, and a number of historically Black colleges (like Clark Atlanta University) that contribute to the engineering talent pool. For professionals, Georgia Tech’s continuing education division offers certificates and short courses (for example in cybersecurity, project management, etc.), and local IEEE chapters host workshops.
Cost of Living: Moderate. Atlanta’s cost of living is slightly below the national average – about 2–3% cheaper than U.S. norms overall. Housing in Atlanta is generally affordable; while prices have risen recently, you can still find reasonably priced homes or rentals especially in the suburbs. Compared to other major cities, you get more space for your dollar here. Groceries and gas are about average, and Georgia’s state income tax is middle-of-the-road. One thing to consider: if you choose to live far out in the suburbs to get even cheaper housing, the savings might be offset by longer commutes (both time and fuel costs).
Quality of Life: Atlanta offers a blend of Southern charm and big-city amenities. It’s a diverse city with a rich history (the center of the U.S. civil rights movement) and a vibrant cultural scene – think music (a powerhouse in hip-hop/R&B), sports (Falcons, Hawks, Braves), and events (the massive Dragon Con, for example). The climate is hot and humid in summer but generally pleasant the rest of the year (mild winters with only occasional ice/snow). The city is known for its heavy traffic – commuting on the notorious I-285 “Perimeter” or I-75/85 downtown connector can be a challenge, and public transit (MARTA rail and buses) is limited in reach. On the other hand, lots of greenery and tree-lined neighborhoods give Atlanta a “city in a forest” feel. Suburbs like Alpharetta, Marietta, and Decatur offer excellent schools and family-friendly environments. For leisure, the city has extensive parks (Piedmont Park, BeltLine trail) and is a few hours from the Appalachian Mountains for hiking/camping. In summary, Atlanta is a growing tech city that offers a high quality of life to engineers, especially those who value a balance of career opportunities, cost, and a touch of Southern hospitality.
Sources: Salary and cost-of-living data were drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and reputable salary surveys. City-specific details on employers, education, and quality of life were compiled from regional economic reports and publications. Each city’s section includes inline citations for key facts and figures.