Energy capital, NASA, world-class medical center. Here's how Civil Engineers 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) | $80,900 | $61,400 | $105,100 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $100,500 | $76,300 | $130,600 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $115,600 | $87,800 | $150,200 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $138,700 | $105,300 | $180,200 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $157,200 | $119,400 | $204,200 |
Highest-paying metros for Civil Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Houston metro economy.
The average Civil Engineer salary in the Houston metro is $115,600 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $87,800 to $150,200 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $190,700 or more.
Yes — Houston pays -3% relative to the Texas state median for Civil Engineers. 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: +7%. Houston pays roughly in line with the national average for Civil Engineers. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Houston, the median Civil Engineer salary of $115,600 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Civil Engineers in Houston start around $80,900, while seniors (10+ years) reach $138,700 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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