Dallas vs Nacogdoches: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Dallas, TX and Nacogdoches, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dallas, TX | Nacogdoches, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $108,498▲ | $97,905 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.16▲ | $47.07 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,765▲ | $72,552 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,746▲ | $78,092 |
| 75th Percentile | $136,719▲ | $122,353 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $172,020▲ | $148,108 |
| Total Employed | 5,600▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Dallas, TX offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Nacogdoches.
The salary gap between Dallas and Nacogdoches is $10,593 (10.82%). Dallas's median is +1.26% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Dallas spans $93,255,Nacogdoches spans $75,556. Dallas 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, Dallas ($105,246 effective) pays 3.20% more than Nacogdoches ($101,984 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dallas if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($108,498/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($172,020)
- ✓Larger job market (5,600 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $105,246)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Nacogdoches if…
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Dallas grew 11.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -3.3% growth in Nacogdoches over the same period.
Dallas, TX
$94,230 (2019) → $105,420 (2025)
Nacogdoches, TX
$98,401 (2024) → $95,127 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Dallas, TX
Nacogdoches, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Dallas or Nacogdoches?
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Related Comparisons
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