Updated 2026

Design Manager Salary in Austin 2026

Average Base
$154,000
+4.2% from 2025
Typical Range
$100,000$210,000
10th - 90th percentile
Total Comp
~$184,800
Includes Equity/Bonus

Austin, TX continues to hire experienced Design Managers, especially for teams building customer-focused digital products. Salaries vary by seniority and company stage, but top performers can earn well above the local median. Design Managers in Austin, TX often collaborate across research, product strategy, and design systems. Austin, TX teams often prioritize collaboration across product, engineering, and go-to-market partners.

Median pay for Design Manager roles in Austin, TX tends to track the local cost of living while rewarding specialized skills. Experience with Figma, prototyping, and usability testing remains a core expectation. Local teams are prioritizing user-centered design to improve retention and reduce churn. Each listing includes role details, compensation ranges, and links to apply directly. Use the filters below to compare roles by seniority, work type, and compensation range.

Salary Distribution

Cost of Living Analysis

Austin has a cost of living index of 120, which can influence take-home value even when salaries appear higher. Consider housing, transportation, and tax differences when evaluating offers.

CityMedian
New York$182,000
San Francisco$189,000
Seattle$175,000
Boston$168,000
Los Angeles$168,000

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Design Manager salary in Austin, TX?
The median salary depends on seniority and company stage, but most teams pay a competitive market rate for proven UX impact. Use the salary section on this page for up-to-date benchmarks and percentile ranges.
Are Design Manager roles in Austin, TX mostly remote or on-site?
Many employers offer hybrid flexibility, with a mix of in-office collaboration and remote focus days. Fully remote roles are common for senior candidates, especially at distributed teams.
Which industries are hiring Design Managers in Austin, TX?
Fintech, healthcare, SaaS, and consumer marketplaces are all hiring Design Managers in Austin, TX. Enterprise teams also invest in UX to improve retention and satisfaction.