Energy capital, NASA, world-class medical center. Here's how Data 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) | $111,000 | $84,400 | $144,400 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $138,000 | $104,900 | $179,500 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $158,700 | $120,600 | $206,400 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $190,400 | $144,700 | $247,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $215,800 | $164,000 | $280,700 |
Highest-paying metros for Data Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Houston metro economy.
The average Data Engineer salary in the Houston metro is $158,700 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $120,600 to $206,400 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $261,900 or more.
Yes — Houston pays -1% relative to the Texas state median for Data 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: +6%. Houston pays roughly in line with the national average for Data Engineers. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Houston, the median Data Engineer salary of $158,700 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Data Engineers in Houston start around $111,000, while seniors (10+ years) reach $190,400 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.
Get my personal salary report →