Economist Salary in Houston, Texas
The median economist salary in Houston, TX is $109,382 per year, which is 4% below the national median and 4.3% above the Texas state average.
Economist Pay in Houston: What to Expect (2026)
Houston offers a median economist salary of $109,382, which is $4,557 above the Texas state average of $104,825. Compared to the national median of $113,940, Houston pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Houston's cost of living is 96% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for economists in Houston spans from $59,520 at the 10th percentile to $190,080 at the 90th percentile — a $130,560 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $62,400, while senior economists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $177,600. As a major metro area with a population of 2,304,580, Houston typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Economist Salary in Houston by Experience
In Houston, an entry-level economist earns around $62,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $177,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 96% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Houston, TX
| Percentile | Houston |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $59,520 |
| 25th Percentile | $78,720 |
| Median (50th) | $109,382 |
| 75th Percentile | $148,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $190,080 |
Economist Salary in Other Texas Cities
How to Become a Economist in Houston
Education
Most economist positions require a master's degree. Houston and the surrounding Texas area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, economist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Houston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Economist Jobs in Houston
Browse open economist positions in Houston, TX: