Mechanical Engineer vs Cardiologist
Salary Comparison.
Side-by-side monthly salary breakdown for South Africa in 2026 — entry to senior level, gross before tax.
Cardiologist earns 207% more than Mechanical Engineer
Median R 135 000/month vs R 44 000/month — a R 91 000/month difference
Mechanical Engineer
R 528 000/year
100% above SA workforce median
Cardiologist
R 1 620 000/year
514% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | Mechanical Engineer | Cardiologist |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 22 000 | R 70 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 44 000 | R 130 000 |
| Senior(7+ yrs) | R 75 000 | R 220 000 |
Median monthly gross before PAYE tax · South Africa 2026
Salary range comparison
Entry-level
Mid-level
Senior
Key differences
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical engineers remain in steady demand, with particular growth in renewable energy infrastructure, electric vehicles, and South Africa's manufacturing sector.
Cardiologist
Demand for cardiologists in South Africa is rising due to increasing cardiovascular disease incidence. The public sector faces a critical shortage, while private demand is driven by growing medical aid uptake.
See your actual take-home pay
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Frequently asked questions
Which earns more — a Mechanical Engineer or a Cardiologist in South Africa?▾
A Cardiologist earns more on average. The median monthly salary for a Cardiologist is R 135 000/month, compared to R 44 000/month for a Mechanical Engineer — a difference of R 91 000/month (207% higher).
What is the Mechanical Engineer salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Mechanical Engineer salary in South Africa is R 44 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 18 000–R 27 000/month, mid-level pays R 35 000–R 57 000/month, and senior roles pay R 58 000–R 100 000/month.
What is the Cardiologist salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Cardiologist salary in South Africa is R 135 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 60 000–R 85 000/month, mid-level pays R 100 000–R 180 000/month, and senior roles pay R 160 000–R 350 000/month.
How do I calculate take-home pay for a Mechanical Engineer or Cardiologist?▾
Use the Rand Tools PAYE calculator. Enter the gross monthly salary and it will calculate your exact take-home pay after PAYE income tax, UIF (1% of gross, capped at R177.12/month), and any pension or medical aid contributions.