Petroleum Engineer Salary in Texas
The median petroleum engineer salary in Texas is $121,256 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $131,800.
Petroleum Engineer Salary Overview in Texas (2026)
Texas ranks #31 out of 50 states for petroleum engineer compensation. Petroleum Engineer salaries in Texas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $121,256 per year, petroleum engineers in Texas earn $10,544 less than the national median of $131,800.
A key advantage of working in Texas is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $121,256 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $131,800 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Texas is significant: petroleum engineers at the 10th percentile earn $73,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $185,840 — a $112,240 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 $138,390.
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 Texas by Experience
In Texas, an entry-level petroleum engineer earns around $77,280, while experienced professionals earn up to $179,400 per year. The cost of living index in Texas is 92% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Texas
| Percentile | TX Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $73,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $93,840 |
| Median (50th) | $121,256 |
| 75th Percentile | $154,560 |
| 90th Percentile | $185,840 |
Petroleum Engineer Salary by City in Texas
The largest employment areas for petroleum engineers 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 Petroleum Engineer in Texas
Education
Most petroleum engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Texas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Texas
Nationally, petroleum engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Texas'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 $58,144 over your career trajectory.
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