Science & Research Texas (TX) Rank #30 of 50

Geologist Salary in Texas

The median geologist salary in Texas is $76,986 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $83,680.

Median Salary
$76,986
vs National
$-6,694
State Rank
#30 of 50
Cost of Living
92%

Geologist Salary Overview in Texas (2026)

Texas ranks #30 out of 50 states for geologist compensation. Geologist salaries in Texas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $76,986 per year, geologists in Texas earn $6,694 less than the national median of $83,680.

A key advantage of working in Texas is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $76,986 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $83,680 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Texas is significant: geologists at the 10th percentile earn $46,920, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $136,160 — a $89,240 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Texas for this role is Austin, where the median reaches $87,864.

Nationally, geologist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for geologists across the country.

Geologist Salary in Texas by Experience

In Texas, an entry-level geologist earns around $49,680, while experienced professionals earn up to $128,800 per year. The cost of living index in Texas is 92% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$49,680
$-4,320 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$78,200
$-6,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$128,800
$-11,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Texas

Percentile TX Salary
10th Percentile $46,920
25th Percentile $57,960
Median (50th) $76,986
75th Percentile $103,040
90th Percentile $136,160

Geologist Salary by City in Texas

The largest employment areas for geologists in Texas include Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Geologist in Texas

Education

Most geologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Texas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Field GeologyGISRock AnalysisStratigraphyEnvironmental AssessmentTechnical Writing

Job Outlook in Texas

Nationally, geologist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Texas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Data shows Geologists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $51,814 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Geologist Salary in Texas

How much does a Geologist make in Texas? ▼
The median geologist salary in Texas is $76,986 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $83,680. Salaries range from $46,920 (10th percentile) to $136,160 (90th percentile).
How much does a Geologist make per hour in Texas? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $76,986, a geologist in Texas earns approximately $37 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Texas a good state for geologists? ▼
Texas ranks #30 out of 50 states for geologist pay. The cost of living index is 92% of the national average. Entry-level geologists earn $49,680, while senior professionals earn $128,800.
How does Texas compare to other states for geologist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for geologists is Hawaii at $142,256. Texas's median of $76,986 ranks #30 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New Mexico ($77,822) and North Carolina ($76,986).
What is the entry-level geologist salary in Texas? ▼
An entry-level geologist in Texas earns approximately $49,680 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $78,200. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $128,800.
What city in Texas pays geologists the most? ▼
Austin is the highest paying city in Texas for geologists, with a median salary of $87,864. Other cities include Houston and Dallas.