Austin Paychecks Are Growing Nearly Twice as Fast as the U.S.

Austin's labor market isn't just adding jobs. Paychecks are growing considerably faster than the state and country overall.

The numbers:

• $37.91 average hourly earnings in Austin through August 2026

• Up 6.0% from $35.82 during the same period last year

• Texas average hourly earnings grew 3.5%

• U.S. average hourly earnings grew 3.4%

• Austin wage growth is roughly 76% faster than the national rate

Faster wage growth puts more money into local paychecks and consumer spending, while also increasing labor costs for businesses trying to hire and retain talent. For founders, it cuts both ways: Austin's workforce is becoming better paid, but building a team here is getting more expensive too.