Ethyl 5-methylsalicylate (ethyl 2-hydroxy-5-methylbenzoate) is a hydroxyl benzoate derivative. One of the methods reported for its synthesis is the esterification of p-cresotinic acid with absolute alcohol. It is formed as an intermediate during the synthesis of 2-propoxy-5-methylbenzoic acid. Ethyl 2-hydroxy-5-methylbenzoate has been isolated as a minor by product in the AlCl3 promoted reaction of 2-methyl furan with ethyl propiolate.