How Chemical Engineers in Texas get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Texas compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $103,300 | $78,600 | $134,400 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $128,400 | $97,700 | $167,000 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $147,700 | $112,300 | $192,000 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $177,200 | $134,700 | $230,400 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $200,800 | $152,700 | $261,100 |
Pay varies sharply within Texas. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Texas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin | $143,700 | $109,200 | $186,800 | -3% |
| Dallas–Fort Worth | $139,700 | $106,200 | $181,600 | -5% |
| Houston | $135,700 | $103,100 | $176,400 | -8% |
Top occupations by median pay in Texas — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Chemical Engineer salary in Texas is $147,700 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $112,300 and the 75th at $192,000.
Pay-wise, Texas sits +18% above the national Chemical Engineer median ($125,200). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Chemical Engineers (10–14 years of experience) in Texas earn around $177,200 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $200,800 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Texas ranks 9th for Chemical Engineer pay. The highest-paying state pays around $175,300 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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