In Austin, TX, Software Developers earn a median of $131,320 a year — about 5% below the U.S. median of $138,110. Among the 49 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #17.
What that pay is worth in Austin
Local prices run 98 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $132,500 salary is about break-even with the national average ($135,113 adjusted).
Can Software Developers afford a home in Austin?
A typical Austin home runs about $512,700 — 3.9 times the average Software Developer salary, manageable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,655/mo takes roughly 15% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Software Developer pay ladder in Austin
Entry-level (10th percentile) Software Developers earn about $77,600; the top 10% reach $181,260 — a $103,660 spread, wide for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Software Developer job market in Austin
Austin employs roughly 26,850 Software Developers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Austin with other cities
See the full Software Developer salary by city ranking to weigh Austin against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Software Developers make in Austin?
The average Software Developer in Austin, TX earns about $132,500 per year, 4.1% below the national average of $138,110.
What is the take-home pay for Software Developers in Austin after taxes?
After federal and TX taxes, this $132,500 salary is worth about $101,829 a year - roughly $8,485 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 23%.
What do the highest-paid Software Developers earn in Austin?
The top 10% of Software Developers in Austin earn about $181,260 a year, versus about $77,600 for the bottom 10%.
Can Software Developers afford a home in Austin?
A typical Austin home runs about $512,700 - roughly 3.9x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.