Mechanical Engineer Salary in Austin
2026 compensation data for Mechanical Engineer positions in Austin, TX. Ranges from $67,000 (entry-level) to $178,000 (senior). Median: $108,000.
Median (Mid)
$108,000
$51.92/hr
vs National
+2%
US: $106,000
COL Index
110
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$178,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $67,000 | $78,000 | $92,000 | $37.5/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $89,000 | $108,000 | $130,000 | $51.92/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $124,000 | $149,000 | $178,000 | $71.63/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Austin
A mid-level mechanical engineer earning $108,000 in Austin has the same buying power as $98,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 110).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Mechanical Engineer Salaries in Austin
The median mechanical engineer salary in Austin, TX is $108,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 2% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 110 (national average = 100), Austin offers a moderate cost of living with competitive salaries.
Entry-level mechanical engineers in Austin can expect to earn between $67,000 and $92,000 (about $37.5/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $178,000 ($178K annually, or about $85.58/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Austin.
Frequently Asked Questions: Mechanical Engineer Salary in Austin
What is the average Mechanical Engineer salary in Austin?+
The average Mechanical Engineer salary in Austin is $108,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $78,000 and senior-level pay reaches $149,000.
How much does an entry-level mechanical engineer make in Austin?+
Entry-level mechanical engineers in Austin earn between $67,000 and $92,000, with a median of $78,000 per year (about $37.5/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Mechanical Engineer in Austin?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Mechanical Engineer in Austin earns roughly $37.5/hour at entry-level, $51.92/hour at mid-level, and $71.63/hour at senior-level.
Is the Mechanical Engineer salary in Austin higher than the US average?+
Yes — Mechanical Engineer salaries in Austin are about 2% higher than the US national median of $106,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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