Austin vs Odessa: Civil Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare civil engineer salaries between Austin, TX and Odessa, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Austin, TX | Odessa, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,112▲ | $80,729 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.57▲ | $38.81 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,099▲ | $62,266 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,176▲ | $72,960 |
| 75th Percentile | $132,280▲ | $117,121 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $167,051▲ | $155,177 |
| Total Employed | 4,940▲ | 130 |
Verdict
Austin, TX offers better overall compensation for civil engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Odessa.
The salary gap between Austin and Odessa is $22,383 (27.73%). Austin's median is -0.37% compared to the US national median of $103,492.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Austin spans $99,952,Odessa spans $92,911. 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, Austin ($105,146 effective) pays 22.29% more than Odessa ($85,977 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 ($103,112/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($167,051)
- ✓Larger job market (4,940 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $105,146)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Odessa if…
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, civil engineer salaries in Austin grew 18.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 9.5% growth in Odessa over the same period.
Austin, TX
$84,680 (2019) → $100,470 (2025)
Odessa, TX
$71,830 (2019) → $78,660 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Austin, TX
Odessa, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Jordan Chen, P.E.
Career Analyst
Jordan Chen has 10 years of experience in structural engineering. He works primarily in urban infrastructure projects.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.63% 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 Jordan Chen, P.E., a licensed civil engineer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov