Austin vs Richardson: Paralegal Salary (2026)
Compare paralegal salaries between Austin, TX and Richardson, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Austin, TX | Richardson, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $66,391▲ | $57,180 |
| Hourly Rate | $31.92▲ | $27.49 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $45,751▲ | $38,054 |
| 25th Percentile | $48,443▲ | $46,909 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,876▲ | $72,765 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $103,986▲ | $88,629 |
| Total Employed | 4,390▲ | 24 |
Verdict
Austin, TX offers better overall compensation for paralegals, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Richardson.
The salary gap between Austin and Richardson is $9,211 (16.11%). Austin's median is +1.99% compared to the US national median of $65,097.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Austin spans $58,235,Richardson spans $50,575. Austin has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Austin ($67,700 effective) pays 13.66% more than Richardson ($59,563 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Austin if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($66,391/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($103,986)
- ✓Larger job market (4,390 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $67,700)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Richardson if…
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, paralegal salaries in Austin grew 24.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -8.3% growth in Richardson over the same period.
Austin, TX
$51,560 (2019) → $64,140 (2025)
Richardson, TX
$60,257 (2024) → $55,241 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Austin, TX
Richardson, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays paralegals more: Austin or Richardson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Austin and Richardson?
Should I relocate from Austin to Richardson as a paralegal?
What do entry-level paralegals earn in Austin vs Richardson?
Related Comparisons
Written by Jessica Tran, JD
Career Analyst
Jessica Tran has 10 years of experience in paralegal studies. She specializes in corporate law and works with a law firm. She trains new paralegals in legal research and documentation.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.51% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jessica Tran, JD, a licensed paralegal with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov