Austin vs Chicago for Software Engineers (2026)
The HackerX talent pool has 2,158 developers in Austin and 1,920 developers in Chicago. Compare developer supply, in-demand stacks, estimated salary bands, cost of living and upcoming HackerX hiring events below.
Austin
| Junior (0–2 yrs) | $90K – $115K |
| Mid-level (2–5 yrs) | $115K – $150K |
| Senior (5–8 yrs) | $145K – $190K |
| Staff+ (8+ yrs) | $180K – $245K |
Salary figures are 2026 market estimates, not HackerX data. See the Austin salary guide.
Chicago
| Junior (0–2 yrs) | $85K – $115K |
| Mid-level (2–5 yrs) | $110K – $145K |
| Senior (5–8 yrs) | $140K – $185K |
| Staff+ (8+ yrs) | $175K – $235K |
Salary figures are 2026 market estimates, not HackerX data. See the Chicago salary guide.
Cost of living & pay, side by side
Cost of living in Chicago is roughly 6% higher than in Austin (estimated cost-of-living index Chicago 76 vs Austin 72, where New York = 100). These are estimates for guidance only.
Austin: Austin salaries run roughly 15–25% below San Francisco, but the lower cost of living and zero state income tax often mean comparable or better take-home value.
Chicago: Chicago pays about 20% below coastal hubs, but proprietary trading firms offer some of the highest engineering compensation in the country.
Ready to make a move?
Developers: create a free HackerX profile and get invited to hiring events. Employers: meet vetted engineers in these cities.