How Software Engineers in Texas get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Texas compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $111,600 | $84,800 | $145,100 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $138,700 | $105,400 | $180,300 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $159,500 | $121,200 | $207,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $191,400 | $145,400 | $248,700 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $216,900 | $164,800 | $281,900 |
Pay varies sharply within Texas. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Texas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin | $158,400 | $120,400 | $205,900 | -1% |
| Dallas–Fort Worth | $153,900 | $117,000 | $200,100 | -4% |
| Houston | $149,500 | $113,600 | $194,300 | -6% |
Top occupations by median pay in Texas — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Software Engineer salary in Texas is $159,500 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $121,200 and the 75th at $207,300.
Pay-wise, Texas sits +15% above the national Software Engineer median ($138,700). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Software Engineers (10–14 years of experience) in Texas earn around $191,400 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $216,900 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Texas ranks 10th for Software Engineer pay. The highest-paying state pays around $215,000 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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