Salaries in Garland, TX

You might think a city of 243,000 people just outside Dallas would be a bedroom community, but Garland has its own economic engine. It’s got a surprising number of high-paying tech and professional jobs for a suburb, which keeps the local salary data from being just a reflection of big-city wages.

Let’s talk real purchasing power. Garland’s cost of living sits at 103.3, meaning it’s about 3% pricier than the national average. A $1,291 one-bedroom rent isn’t cheap, but it’s also not the financial black hole you see in Dallas proper. The median household income of $71,729 stretches a bit further here than it would in the city center, but don’t expect a bargain. You’re trading some urban excitement for slightly more space and a marginally lower financial squeeze.

The money flows from a few key sectors. Manufacturing and logistics are big, thanks to major players like Kraft Heinz and the massive distribution centers along I-30. But the real surprise is the tech and professional services scene. Software developers here can pull in nearly $128,500, which is a serious salary for the area. You’ll also find a steady demand for accountants and skilled trades like electricians, who are essential to keeping all that infrastructure running.

Here’s the honest catch: wages aren’t exactly racing ahead of costs. With an unemployment rate of 4.0%, the job market is stable, but it’s not a hotbed of opportunity for everyone. The average salary across all roles is $54,101, and after adjusting for the cost of living, that’s effectively $52,373. This city works best for skilled professionals—like those software developers—and stable, union-backed trades. If you’re in retail or hospitality, the math gets a lot tighter.

The data below breaks down who earns what, showing just how much your profession matters in this particular North Texas economy.