Petroleum Engineer Salary in Arkansas
The median petroleum engineer salary in Arkansas is $110,712 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $131,800.
Petroleum Engineer Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for petroleum engineer compensation. Petroleum Engineer salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $110,712 per year, petroleum engineers in Arkansas earn $21,088 less than the national median of $131,800.
A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $110,712 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $131,800 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: petroleum engineers at the 10th percentile earn $67,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $169,680 — a $102,480 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $115,984.
Nationally, petroleum engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for petroleum engineers across the country.
Petroleum Engineer Salary in Arkansas by Experience
In Arkansas, an entry-level petroleum engineer earns around $70,560, while experienced professionals earn up to $163,800 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Arkansas
| Percentile | AR Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $67,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $85,680 |
| Median (50th) | $110,712 |
| 75th Percentile | $141,120 |
| 90th Percentile | $169,680 |
Petroleum Engineer Salary by City in Arkansas
The largest employment areas for petroleum engineers in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Petroleum Engineer in Arkansas
Education
Most petroleum engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Arkansas
Nationally, petroleum engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Petroleum Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $53,088 over your career trajectory.
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