How Lawyer / Attorneys 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) | $133,100 | $101,200 | $173,100 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $165,400 | $125,800 | $215,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $190,200 | $144,600 | $247,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $228,200 | $173,500 | $296,700 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $258,600 | $196,600 | $336,300 |
Pay varies sharply within Texas. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Texas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin | $182,600 | $138,800 | $237,400 | -4% |
| Dallas–Fort Worth | $177,600 | $135,000 | $230,800 | -7% |
| Houston | $172,500 | $131,100 | $224,200 | -9% |
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 Lawyer / Attorney salary in Texas is $190,200 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $144,600 and the 75th at $247,300.
Pay-wise, Texas sits +20% above the national Lawyer / Attorney median ($158,500). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Lawyer / Attorneys (10–14 years of experience) in Texas earn around $228,200 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $258,600 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Texas ranks 10th for Lawyer / Attorney pay. The highest-paying state pays around $261,600 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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