Austin vs Keller: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Austin, TX and Keller, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Austin, TX | Keller, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $109,805▲ | $98,025 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.79▲ | $47.13 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,068 | $72,939▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $94,820▲ | $80,510 |
| 75th Percentile | $149,327▲ | $124,682 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $178,268▲ | $148,762 |
| Total Employed | 1,790▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Austin, TX offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Keller.
The salary gap between Austin and Keller is $11,780 (12.02%). 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,Keller spans $75,823. 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 ($111,971 effective) pays 9.66% more than Keller ($102,109 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)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $111,971)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Keller if…
- ✓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 Keller over the same period.
Austin, TX
$88,940 (2019) → $106,690 (2025)
Keller, TX
$98,522 (2024) → $95,244 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Austin, TX
Keller, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Austin or Keller?
What is the hourly rate difference between Austin and Keller?
Should I relocate from Austin to Keller as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Austin vs Keller?
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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