Urban Planner Salary in Austin, Texas
The median urban planner salary in Austin, TX is $83,517 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 14.1% above the Texas state average.
Urban Planner Pay in Austin: What to Expect (2026)
Austin offers a median urban planner salary of $83,517, which is $10,340 above the Texas state average of $73,177. Compared to the national median of $79,540, 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 urban planners in Austin spans from $52,500 at the 10th percentile to $128,100 at the 90th percentile — a $75,600 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $54,600, while senior urban planners with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $123,900. 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.
Urban Planner Salary in Austin by Experience
In Austin, an entry-level urban planner earns around $54,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $123,900 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Austin, TX
| Percentile | Austin |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $52,500 |
| 25th Percentile | $66,150 |
| Median (50th) | $83,517 |
| 75th Percentile | $105,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $128,100 |
Urban Planner Salary in Other Texas Cities
How to Become a Urban Planner in Austin
Education
Most urban planner positions require a master's degree. Austin and the surrounding Texas area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, urban planner 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 Urban Planner Jobs in Austin
Browse open urban planner positions in Austin, TX: