Across U.S. metros, elevator installers typically earn $44,385 more a year than industrial machinery mechanics (69%). In the 53 metros where BLS publishes both, elevator installers earn more in 51 and industrial machinery mechanics in 2.
| Elevator Installer | Industrial Machinery Mechanic | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical metro median pay | $108,250 | $63,865 |
| Lowest metro median | $38,330 | $31,260 |
| Highest metro median | $173,920 | $96,950 |
| Job growth 2025–35 (U.S.) | +5.7% | +17.8% |
| Openings per year (U.S.) | 1,900 | 44,400 |
| Self-employed | — | 1% |
| Typical education | High school diploma or equivalent | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Typical training | Apprenticeship | Long-term on-the-job training |
| Injury rate per 10k workers (U.S.) | 101 | 54 |
| Metros with pay data | 53 | 388 |
On safety, elevator installers report more injuries that cause missed work (101 vs. 54 per 10,000 full-time workers, national 2023–24).
Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025 (typical = median across metros). Growth, openings, education, training: BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Injuries: BLS SOII 2023–24.
Where elevator installers out-earn industrial machinery mechanics the most Our calculation
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
Where industrial machinery mechanics out-earn elevator installers the most
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
What each trade does
Elevator Installer
Assemble, install, repair, or maintain electric or hydraulic freight or passenger elevators, escalators, or dumbwaiters.
Industrial Machinery Mechanic
Repair, install, adjust, or maintain industrial production and processing machinery or refinery and pipeline distribution systems. May also install, dismantle, or move machinery and heavy equipment according to plans.
Compare one trade across two cities →