How to Become a Mechanical Engineers in Texas
Mechanical Engineers in Texas earn a median salary of $108,240/year, which is 6% above the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a mechanical engineers takes home approximately $5,632/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a mechanical engineers can afford in Texas
Becoming a mechanical engineers in Texas
Meet education requirements
Mechanical Engineers positions in Texas typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Texas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many mechanical engineers positions in Texas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Texas licensure or certification
Texas may require specific licensing or professional certification for mechanical engineerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Texas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Texas
Texas employs 18,790 mechanical engineers. The highest concentrations are in Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands and Corpus Christi.
Mechanical Engineers salary by metro area in Texas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands | $127K | $61/hr | 7,010 |
| Corpus Christi | $123K | $59.08/hr | 220 |
| Midland | $122K | $58.79/hr | 250 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur | $120K | $57.5/hr | 360 |
| Tyler | $114K | $54.67/hr | 150 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos | $110K | $53.08/hr | 1,570 |
| Brownsville-Harlingen | $108K | $51.8/hr | 130 |
| Killeen-Temple | $106K | $51.04/hr | 80 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $104K | $50.2/hr | 5,140 |
| Odessa | $103K | $49.46/hr | 100 |
| Victoria | $102K | $48.9/hr | 40 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $102K | $48.9/hr | 1,150 |
| Longview | $101K | $48.58/hr | 190 |
| Texarkana | $100K | $48.12/hr | 50 |
| Amarillo | $99K | $47.39/hr | 140 |
Mechanical Engineers salary range in Texas
Mechanical Engineers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a mechanical engineers make in Texas?▼
The median mechanical engineers salary in Texas is $108,240 per year ($52.04/hr). This is 6% above the national median of $102,320. Salaries range from $70,450 to $170,260.
What are the requirements to become a mechanical engineers in Texas?▼
Mechanical Engineers positions in Texas typically require Bachelor's degree. Texas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Texas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a mechanical engineers afford to live in Texas?▼
At the median salary of $108,240, a mechanical engineers in Texas would take home approximately $7,044/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 20% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for mechanical engineers in Texas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for mechanical engineers in Texas are Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands ($126,870), Corpus Christi ($122,890), Midland ($122,270). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Texas have state income tax for mechanical engineers?▼
No, Texas does not have a state income tax. This means mechanical engineers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.