Development Director Jobs in Dallas, TX

Dallas, Texas$96,900 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Development Director Jobs in Dallas

Looking for a Development Director job in Dallas? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Development Director in Dallas, 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.

Dallas has a strong job market for Development Directors. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Development Director Salary in Dallas

Entry Level
$60,690
Median
$96,900
Senior Level
$140,760

Development Director salaries in Dallas are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

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

Required Skills

Development StrategyMajor GiftsBoard RelationsTeam LeadershipFundraising

Development Director Job Market in Dallas

Dallas, TX is a major regional employment hub for Development Director professionals. With a population of 1.3 million, the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro area offers diverse opportunities across multiple industries. While Technology leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Development Director roles across various sectors. The market for Development Director positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Development Directors in Dallas

City of DallasDARTDallas ISDOncor

Major employers hiring Development Directors in Dallas include City of Dallas, DART, Dallas ISD, Oncor. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Development Directors in Dallas

Living in Dallas as a Development Director means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,700/month. At median Development Director salary, housing is quite affordable at 21% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,300/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

102
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.7K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 2
Market Size

Commuting as a Development Director in Dallas

Dallas Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Development Directors in Dallas: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Development Director 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 Development Director earning $96,900 would save approximately $4,845 annually. This makes Dallas attractive for high earners, though property taxes and sales tax help fund state services.

Career Outlook for Development Directors

The job outlook for Development Directors in Dallas is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. Dallas's growing economy creates new positions regularly, often with less competition than coastal tech hubs. In-demand skills include Development Strategy, Major Gifts, Board Relations, Team Leadership.

Relocating to Dallas

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Development Director salary in Dallas, TX?

The average Development Director salary in Dallas, TX is $96,900 per year. Entry-level Development Directors typically start around $60,690, while experienced professionals can earn $140,760 or more. The national average for Development Director roles is $95,000.

How many Development Director jobs are available in Dallas?

Dallas has a strong job market with regular openings for Development Director professionals. Major employers hiring Development Directors include City of Dallas, DART, Dallas ISD, Oncor. The Technology and Finance sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Dallas a good city for Development Directors?

Dallas is an excellent choice for Development Directors. 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 nonprofit professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Development Directors in Dallas?

Top skills for Development Directors in Dallas include Development Strategy, Major Gifts, Board Relations, Team Leadership, Fundraising. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Development Directors in Dallas?

Dallas's cost of living is near the national average (102% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,700/month. Purchasing power in Dallas is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Development Directors in Dallas?

Dallas Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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