Austin vs Plano: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Austin, TX and Plano, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Austin, TX | Plano, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $109,805▲ | $107,760 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.79▲ | $51.81 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,068 | $71,434▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $94,820▲ | $83,118 |
| 75th Percentile | $149,327▲ | $137,933 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $178,268▲ | $167,029 |
| Total Employed | 1,790▲ | 57 |
Verdict
Austin, TX offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Plano.
The salary gap between Austin and Plano is $2,045 (1.90%). Austin's median is +2.48% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Austin spans $108,200,Plano spans $95,595. Austin has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Plano ($112,250 effective) pays 0.25% more than Austin ($111,971 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Austin if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($109,805/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($178,268)
- ✓Larger job market (1,790 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Plano if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,250)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Austin grew 20.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -3.3% growth in Plano over the same period.
Austin, TX
$88,940 (2019) → $106,690 (2025)
Plano, TX
$108,307 (2024) → $104,703 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Austin, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Austin or Plano?
What is the hourly rate difference between Austin and Plano?
Should I relocate from Austin to Plano as a mechanical engineer?
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Written by Amina Patel, PE
Career Analyst
Amina has 10 years of experience in mechanical engineering. She specializes in thermal analysis and works in the automotive industry.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.92% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Amina Patel, PE, a licensed mechanical engineer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov