TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Backend Developer Salary in Austin
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$227,513/yr
Typical range: $193,316 – $237,709
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Backend Developer salary by experience level in Austin
Backend Developer Salary Progression in Austin
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $104,533 | $8,711 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $129,129 | $10,761 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $145,526 | $12,127 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $168,483 | $14,040 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $227,513 | $18,959 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $285,314 | $23,776 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $299,764 | $24,980 | +187% |
Current Salary
$227,513
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $109/hr
Next Level Target
$285,314
Principal · 14
+$58Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
53/100
Moderate
+22% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Backend Developer salary in Austin, TX?
Staff / Lead Backend Developers in Austin, TX earn approximately $228K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Backend Developer make per hour in Austin, TX?
Based on $228K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $109/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Backend Developer in Austin, TX?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Backend Developer in Austin, TX earns $193K–$238K/yr.