Quick Answer
A good salary in Austin ranges from $65,000-$85,000 for most professionals, but varies significantly by industry. Tech workers typically need $95,000+ to live comfortably, while the median household income is $78,965. Housing costs consume 25-35% of gross income for most residents.
Best Answer
Dr. Lisa Park, Labor Market Researcher
General professionals across industries looking to understand competitive salary ranges in Austin
What constitutes a good salary in Austin, Texas?
A good salary in Austin typically ranges from $65,000 to $85,000 for most professionals, though this varies significantly by industry and experience level. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Austin's median household income is $78,965, which is 15% higher than the national median of $70,784.
The key factors determining whether a salary is "good" in Austin include housing costs, industry standards, and your career stage. Austin's cost of living index is 103.2 (with 100 being the national average), meaning it's about 3.2% more expensive than the typical U.S. city.
Example: Salary breakdown for a $75,000 job in Austin
Let's examine how a $75,000 salary works in Austin:
Monthly gross income: $6,250
Monthly take-home (after taxes): ~$4,680
Typical monthly expenses:
Total monthly expenses: $2,920-$3,650
Remaining for savings/discretionary: $1,030-$1,760
This demonstrates that $75,000 provides a comfortable lifestyle with room for savings, placing it in the "good salary" category.
Industry-specific salary benchmarks
Key factors that affect salary expectations
What you should do
Before accepting or negotiating a salary in Austin:
1. Research your specific role on Glassdoor, PayScale, and levels.fyi
2. Factor in the 0% state income tax benefit when comparing offers from other states
3. Consider total compensation including health benefits, 401(k) matching, and equity
4. Account for Austin's rapid growth—negotiate based on projected market rates, not just current ones
Use our job offer comparison tool to evaluate multiple Austin opportunities side-by-side, including take-home pay calculations and benefit valuations.
Key takeaway: A good Austin salary is $65,000-$85,000 for most professionals, but tech roles require $95,000+ to be competitive. The lack of state income tax effectively increases your purchasing power by 3-8% compared to similar roles in high-tax states.
Key Takeaway: A good Austin salary ranges from $65,000-$85,000 for most professionals, with tech roles requiring $95,000+ to remain competitive in the market.
Salary ranges by experience level and industry in Austin, Texas
| Industry | Entry Level | Mid-Level | Senior Level | Top Performer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | $85,000-$110,000 | $120,000-$160,000 | $180,000-$250,000+ | $300,000+ |
| Finance | $65,000-$85,000 | $90,000-$130,000 | $140,000-$200,000 | $250,000+ |
| Healthcare | $60,000-$80,000 | $85,000-$120,000 | $130,000-$180,000 | $220,000+ |
| Education | $45,000-$55,000 | $55,000-$70,000 | $70,000-$90,000 | $100,000+ |
| Marketing | $55,000-$70,000 | $75,000-$95,000 | $100,000-$130,000 | $150,000+ |
More Perspectives
Dr. Lisa Park, Labor Market Researcher
Recent graduates and early-career professionals entering the Austin job market
What's a realistic starting salary for your first job in Austin?
For entry-level positions in Austin, expect starting salaries between $45,000-$65,000, depending on your field. Recent college graduates should target the higher end of this range, especially in growing industries like tech, healthcare, and finance.
Entry-level salary ranges by major:
Your first Austin job is about gaining experience and building your network in one of America's fastest-growing job markets. Many entry-level workers see 15-25% salary increases within their first two years as they prove their value.
Living comfortably on $55,000 in Austin:
With roommates and smart budgeting, $55,000 provides a good quality of life. Your take-home pay would be approximately $3,500 monthly. Shared housing costs $800-$1,200, leaving $2,300+ for other expenses and savings.
Consider the long-term opportunity cost—Austin's job market rewards experience quickly. A slightly lower starting salary at a growing company often leads to faster promotions than higher-paying but stagnant roles.
Key takeaway: Entry-level Austin salaries of $45,000-$65,000 are competitive when considering growth potential and Texas's lack of state income tax, which effectively increases your purchasing power.
Key Takeaway: Entry-level Austin salaries of $45,000-$65,000 are competitive when considering rapid career growth opportunities and Texas's 0% state income tax benefit.
Marcus Rivera, Compensation & Benefits Analyst
Working parents and families considering Austin's family-friendly benefits and cost of living
What salary do families need to live well in Austin?
Families need higher salaries to live comfortably in Austin, with household incomes of $90,000-$120,000 recommended for families with children. According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four needs $94,676 annually to maintain a modest but adequate standard of living in Austin.
Family budget breakdown for $100,000 household income:
For families with two working parents, dual incomes of $50,000+ each often work better than one high earner due to Austin's progressive tax structure and childcare considerations.
Austin family advantages:
Many Austin families prioritize total compensation over base salary. Look for employers offering dependent care FSAs (save $5,000+ in taxes), strong health benefits, and flexible work arrangements that reduce childcare costs.
Key takeaway: Austin families need $90,000-$120,000 household income for comfortable living, but the lack of state income tax and family-friendly employers make these salaries stretch further than equivalent pay in high-tax states.
Key Takeaway: Austin families need $90,000-$120,000 household income for comfortable living, but Texas's tax advantages and family benefits make these salaries more valuable than in high-tax states.
Sources
- Bureau of Labor Statistics - Austin Metropolitan Area — Official employment and wage statistics for Austin-Round Rock-Georgetown metropolitan area
- IRS Publication 15-T — Federal Income Tax Withholding Methods for payroll calculations
Related Questions
Reviewed by Dr. Lisa Park, Labor Market Researcher on February 28, 2026
This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional tax advice. Consult a qualified tax professional for advice specific to your situation.