TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Game Developer Salary in Dallas
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$163,681/yr
Typical range: $139,078 – $171,016
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Game Developer salary by experience level in Dallas
Game Developer Salary Progression in Dallas
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 | $75,205 | $6,267 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $92,900 | $7,742 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $104,697 | $8,725 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $121,212 | $10,101 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $163,681 | $13,640 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $205,264 | $17,105 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $215,660 | $17,972 | +187% |
Current Salary
$163,681
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $79/hr
Next Level Target
$205,264
Principal · 14
+$42Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
46/100
Below Average
+14% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Game Developer salary in Dallas, TX?
Staff / Lead Game Developers in Dallas, TX earn approximately $164K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Game Developer make per hour in Dallas, TX?
Based on $164K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $79/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Game Developer in Dallas, TX?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Game Developer in Dallas, TX earns $139K–$171K/yr.