Mechanical Engineer Salary in Houston, TX
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Engineering · COL Index: 96.5
$126,870
Median Salary
$131,270
Mean Salary
$131,472
COL-Adjusted
7,010
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $77,980 | $80,808 |
| 25th Percentile | $97,990 | $101,544 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $126,870 | $131,472 |
| 75th Percentile | $161,420 | $167,275 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $195,310 | $202,394 |
What Drives the Range
The $117,330 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Mechanical Engineer positions in Houston, TX reflects several factors. Entry-level professionals and those in smaller organizations typically fall in the lower quartiles, while senior specialists, those with in-demand certifications, and employees at large enterprises command salaries in the upper percentiles.
Houston, TX's cost-of-living index of 96.5 means that a $126,870 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $131,472 in an average-cost U.S. city. The relatively moderate cost of living makes this a competitive market for purchasing power.