Energy capital, NASA, world-class medical center. Here's how CEO (Mid-Market)s in Houston get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Houston metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $379,200 | $288,200 | $493,000 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $471,300 | $358,200 | $612,800 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $541,800 | $411,800 | $704,400 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $650,100 | $494,100 | $845,200 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $736,800 | $560,000 | $957,900 |
Highest-paying metros for CEO (Mid-Market)s — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Houston metro economy.
The average CEO (Mid-Market) salary in the Houston metro is $541,800 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $411,800 to $704,400 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $894,000 or more.
Yes — Houston pays -1% relative to the Texas state median for CEO (Mid-Market)s. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Houston vs. national: +6%. Houston pays roughly in line with the national average for CEO (Mid-Market)s. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Houston, the median CEO (Mid-Market) salary of $541,800 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level CEO (Mid-Market)s in Houston start around $379,200, while seniors (10+ years) reach $650,100 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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