In Austin, TX, Mechanical Engineers earn a median of $102,370 a year — about 3% below the U.S. median of $105,220. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #18.
What that pay is worth in Austin
Local prices run 98 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $110,700 salary is about break-even with the national average ($112,883 adjusted).
Can Mechanical Engineers afford a home in Austin?
A typical Austin home runs about $512,700 — 4.6 times the average Mechanical Engineer salary, manageable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,655/mo takes roughly 18% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Mechanical Engineer pay ladder in Austin
Entry-level (10th percentile) Mechanical Engineers earn about $62,970; the top 10% reach $165,880 — a $102,910 spread, wide for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Mechanical Engineer job market in Austin
Austin employs roughly 1,580 Mechanical Engineers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Austin with other cities
See the full Mechanical Engineer salary by city ranking to weigh Austin against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Mechanical Engineers make in Austin?
The average Mechanical Engineer in Austin, TX earns about $110,700 per year, 5.2% above the national average of $105,220.
What is the take-home pay for Mechanical Engineers in Austin after taxes?
After federal and TX taxes, this $110,700 salary is worth about $86,707 a year - roughly $7,225 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 22%.
What do the highest-paid Mechanical Engineers earn in Austin?
The top 10% of Mechanical Engineers in Austin earn about $165,880 a year, versus about $62,970 for the bottom 10%.
Can Mechanical Engineers afford a home in Austin?
A typical Austin home runs about $512,700 - roughly 4.6x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.