Energy capital, NASA, world-class medical center. Here's how Lawyer / Attorneys 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) | $120,700 | $91,700 | $156,900 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $150,000 | $114,000 | $195,000 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $172,500 | $131,100 | $224,200 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $207,000 | $157,300 | $269,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $234,600 | $178,200 | $304,900 |
Highest-paying metros for Lawyer / Attorneys — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Houston metro economy.
The average Lawyer / Attorney salary in the Houston metro is $172,500 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $131,100 to $224,200 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $284,600 or more.
Yes — Houston pays -9% relative to the Texas state median for Lawyer / Attorneys. 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: +9%. That puts Houston among the stronger US markets for Lawyer / Attorneys — though cost of living in Houston is also typically elevated.
In Houston, the median Lawyer / Attorney salary of $172,500 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Lawyer / Attorneys in Houston start around $120,700, while seniors (10+ years) reach $207,000 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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