How Civil 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) | $83,300 | $63,300 | $108,200 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $103,500 | $78,700 | $134,500 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $119,000 | $90,500 | $154,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $142,800 | $108,600 | $185,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $161,800 | $123,000 | $210,300 |
Pay varies sharply within Texas. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Texas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin | $122,500 | $93,100 | $159,200 | +3% |
| Dallas–Fort Worth | $119,000 | $90,500 | $154,700 | +0% |
| Houston | $115,600 | $87,800 | $150,200 | -3% |
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 Civil Engineer salary in Texas is $119,000 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $90,500 and the 75th at $154,700.
Pay-wise, Texas sits +10% above the national Civil Engineer median ($108,200). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Civil Engineers (10–14 years of experience) in Texas earn around $142,800 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $161,800 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Texas ranks 13th for Civil Engineer pay. The highest-paying state pays around $151,500 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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