How Mechanical 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) | $84,800 | $64,400 | $110,300 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $105,400 | $80,100 | $137,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $121,200 | $92,100 | $157,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $145,400 | $110,500 | $189,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $164,800 | $125,200 | $214,300 |
Pay varies sharply within Texas. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Texas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin | $122,900 | $93,400 | $159,800 | +1% |
| Dallas–Fort Worth | $119,500 | $90,800 | $155,300 | -1% |
| Houston | $116,000 | $88,200 | $150,800 | -4% |
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 Mechanical Engineer salary in Texas is $121,200 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $92,100 and the 75th at $157,600.
Pay-wise, Texas sits +12% above the national Mechanical 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 Mechanical Engineers (10–14 years of experience) in Texas earn around $145,400 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $164,800 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Texas ranks 13th for Mechanical 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.
Get my personal salary report →