Program Manager Jobs in Austin, TX

Austin, Texas$123,600 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Program Manager Jobs in Austin

Looking for a Program Manager job in Austin? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Program Manager in Austin, TX.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Austin has a strong job market for Program Managers. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Program Manager Salary in Austin

Entry Level
$78,795
Median
$123,600
Senior Level
$177,675

Program Manager salaries in Austin are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Austin is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Program ManagementCross-functional LeadershipStrategic PlanningRisk ManagementStakeholder Communication

Program Manager Job Market in Austin

Austin, TX is one of America's premier job markets for Program Manager professionals. As a mid-sized metro with 979K residents, Austin balances career opportunities with quality of life. While Technology leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Program Manager roles across various sectors. The market for Program Manager positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Program Managers in Austin

State of TexasCity of AustinAustin ISDUT Austin

Major employers hiring Program Managers in Austin include State of Texas, City of Austin, Austin ISD, UT Austin. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Program Managers in Austin

Living in Austin as a Program Manager means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. At median Program Manager salary, housing is quite affordable at 17% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

103
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 1
Market Size

Commuting as a Program Manager in Austin

Austin Limited rail, bus system; very car-dependent city. The average commute time is 26 minutes. Austin traffic has gotten worse with population growth. Living close to work or in urban core reduces commute stress. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Program Managers in Austin: Downtown (Oracle, Google, and tech headquarters); East Austin (Creative tech and startup scene); Domain (Apple, Amazon, and tech campus development). Downtown is particularly popular among Program Manager professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Texas

Texas has no state income tax. Compared to a state with 5% income tax, a Program Manager earning $123,600 would save approximately $6,180 annually. This makes Austin attractive for high earners, though property taxes and sales tax help fund state services.

Career Outlook for Program Managers

The job outlook for Program Managers in Austin is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. As a Tier 1 market, Austin typically has more openings but also more competition from experienced professionals. In-demand skills include Program Management, Cross-functional Leadership, Strategic Planning, Risk Management.

Relocating to Austin

Texas has no state income tax, which can add thousands to your annual take-home pay compared to high-tax states like California or New York. Be prepared for hot summers. Air conditioning is essential, and outdoor activities shift to mornings and evenings during summer months.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Program Manager salary in Austin, TX?

The average Program Manager salary in Austin, TX is $123,600 per year. Entry-level Program Managers typically start around $78,795, while experienced professionals can earn $177,675 or more. The national average for Program Manager roles is $120,000.

How many Program Manager jobs are available in Austin?

Austin has a robust job market with hundreds of openings for Program Manager professionals. Major employers hiring Program Managers include State of Texas, City of Austin, Austin ISD, UT Austin. The Technology and Government sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Austin a good city for Program Managers?

Austin is an excellent choice for Program Managers. As a major metro area, it offers abundant opportunities and competitive salaries. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's technology industry creates strong demand for business & operations professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Program Managers in Austin?

Top skills for Program Managers in Austin include Program Management, Cross-functional Leadership, Strategic Planning, Risk Management, Stakeholder Communication. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Program Managers in Austin?

Austin's cost of living is near the national average (103% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Austin is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Program Managers in Austin?

Austin Limited rail, bus system; very car-dependent city. The average commute is 26 minutes. Austin traffic has gotten worse with population growth.

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