In Houston, TX, Software Developers earn a median of $125,720 a year — about 9% below the U.S. median of $138,110. Among the 49 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #30.
What that pay is worth in Houston
Local prices run 99 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $126,810 salary is about break-even with the national average ($128,573 adjusted).
Can Software Developers afford a home in Houston?
A typical Houston home runs about $253,400 — 2.0 times the average Software Developer salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,313/mo takes roughly 12% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Software Developer pay ladder in Houston
Entry-level (10th percentile) Software Developers earn about $71,310; the top 10% reach $173,900 — a $102,590 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 Houston
Houston employs roughly 19,870 Software Developers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Houston with other cities
See the full Software Developer salary by city ranking to weigh Houston 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 Houston?
The average Software Developer in Houston, TX earns about $126,810 per year, 8.2% below the national average of $138,110.
What is the take-home pay for Software Developers in Houston after taxes?
After federal and TX taxes, this $126,810 salary is worth about $97,940 a year - roughly $8,161 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 23%.
What do the highest-paid Software Developers earn in Houston?
The top 10% of Software Developers in Houston earn about $173,900 a year, versus about $71,310 for the bottom 10%.
Can Software Developers afford a home in Houston?
A typical Houston home runs about $253,400 - roughly 2.0x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.