How Petroleum 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) | $137,400 | $104,400 | $178,500 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $170,700 | $129,800 | $221,900 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $196,300 | $149,200 | $255,100 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $235,500 | $179,000 | $306,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $266,900 | $202,900 | $346,900 |
Pay varies sharply within Texas. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Texas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin | $182,400 | $138,700 | $237,200 | -7% |
| Dallas–Fort Worth | $177,400 | $134,800 | $230,700 | -10% |
| Houston | $172,400 | $131,000 | $224,100 | -12% |
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 Petroleum Engineer salary in Texas is $196,300 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $149,200 and the 75th at $255,100.
Pay-wise, Texas sits +25% above the national Petroleum Engineer median ($157,000). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Petroleum Engineers (10–14 years of experience) in Texas earn around $235,500 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $266,900 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Texas ranks 9th for Petroleum Engineer pay. The highest-paying state pays around $219,800 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 →