Nuclear Engineer Salary in Houston, Texas
The median nuclear engineer salary in Houston, TX is $115,565 per year, which is 4% below the national median and 4.3% above the Texas state average.
Nuclear Engineer Pay in Houston: What to Expect (2026)
Houston offers a median nuclear engineer salary of $115,565, which is $4,815 above the Texas state average of $110,750. Compared to the national median of $120,380, 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 nuclear engineers in Houston spans from $72,960 at the 10th percentile to $170,880 at the 90th percentile — a $97,920 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $74,880, while senior nuclear engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $165,120. 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.
Nuclear Engineer Salary in Houston by Experience
In Houston, an entry-level nuclear engineer earns around $74,880, while experienced professionals earn up to $165,120 per year. The local cost of living index is 96% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Houston, TX
| Percentile | Houston |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $72,960 |
| 25th Percentile | $92,160 |
| Median (50th) | $115,565 |
| 75th Percentile | $142,080 |
| 90th Percentile | $170,880 |
Nuclear Engineer Salary in Other Texas Cities
How to Become a Nuclear Engineer in Houston
Education
Most nuclear engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Houston and the surrounding Texas area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, nuclear engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Houston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Nuclear Engineer Jobs in Houston
Browse open nuclear engineer positions in Houston, TX: