Photographer Salary in Austin, Texas
The median photographer salary in Austin, TX is $42,210 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 14.1% above the Texas state average.
Photographer Pay in Austin: What to Expect (2026)
Austin offers a median photographer salary of $42,210, which is $5,226 above the Texas state average of $36,984. Compared to the national median of $40,200, Austin pays above average for this role.
Austin's cost of living is 105% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for photographers in Austin spans from $25,200 at the 10th percentile to $86,100 at the 90th percentile — a $60,900 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $27,300, while senior photographers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $78,750. As a major metro area with a population of 978,908, Austin typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Photographer Salary in Austin by Experience
In Austin, an entry-level photographer earns around $27,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $78,750 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Austin, TX
| Percentile | Austin |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $25,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $31,500 |
| Median (50th) | $42,210 |
| 75th Percentile | $60,900 |
| 90th Percentile | $86,100 |
Photographer Salary in Other Texas Cities
How to Become a Photographer in Austin
Education
Most photographer positions require a high school diploma. Austin and the surrounding Texas area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, photographer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Austin may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Photographer Jobs in Austin
Browse open photographer positions in Austin, TX: