Some figures recently arose that represent the adjusted salary for computer programmers city-by-city. It clearly shows that Houston (and Texas in general) is the spot to be if you’re going to follow a career in programming! Instead of flocking to California (think: SF, LA, etc.), the Lone Star State is where you’ll make more money with a strong skill set.

Even if you’re just starting out after college, there is much more room to grow here in Houston than other major cities throughout the country. High salaries combined with Texas’ low cost of living and lack of income tax makes it an attractive place for us geeks.

Top 10 cities for programmers
1) Houston - $102,908
2) Austin - $ 93,844
3) Fort Worth - $91,614
4) Arlington - $91,614
5) El Paso - $ 85,741
6) Charlotte - $85,477
7) Dallas - $84,489
8) Jacksonville - $81,928
9) Colorado Springs - $81,850
10) Atlanta - $80,565

Cities that pay the least…

Honolulu (worst @ $38,766)
San Francisco
San Diego
New York
Oakland
Miami
San Jose
Los Angeles
Long Beach
Virginia Beach

(source: http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oessrcma.htm)