When I talk to developers considering Geelong, salary is always the first question. “Will I take a pay cut?”

The answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. Here’s what I’ve learned from conversations with developers and employers across the region.

The Salary Ranges

Based on job postings, recruiter conversations, and direct discussions with Geelong tech workers:

Junior Developers (0-2 years experience)

• Geelong-based companies: $55,000 - $75,000
• Remote Melbourne roles from Geelong: $65,000 - $85,000

Mid-Level Developers (3-5 years experience)

• Geelong-based companies: $85,000 - $115,000
• Remote Melbourne roles from Geelong: $95,000 - $130,000

Senior Developers (5+ years experience)

• Geelong-based companies: $110,000 - $145,000
• Remote Melbourne roles from Geelong: $130,000 - $170,000

Lead/Principal Developers

• Geelong-based companies: $130,000 - $170,000
• Remote Melbourne roles from Geelong: $150,000 - $200,000+

These ranges are indicative. Specific numbers depend on technology stack, industry, company size, and negotiation.

The Melbourne Discount

Yes, Geelong-based employers typically pay less than equivalent Melbourne roles—roughly 10-20% lower for comparable positions.

But this comparison isn’t straightforward.

Cost of living offset: Geelong housing costs are significantly lower than Melbourne. A $100,000 Geelong salary buys more lifestyle than a $120,000 Melbourne salary.

Commute costs: Melbourne workers spend significant money and time on commuting. That’s real cost that salary numbers don’t capture.

Remote changes everything: Developers working remotely for Melbourne or Sydney companies while living in Geelong can earn metropolitan salaries with regional costs.

The question isn’t “Geelong salary vs Melbourne salary.” It’s “Geelong life on Geelong salary vs Melbourne life on Melbourne salary vs Geelong life on remote Melbourne salary.”

Who Pays Most

Within Geelong, salary variations are significant:

Highest paying:

• Established tech companies with national/international customers
• Melbourne companies with Geelong satellite offices
• Companies in well-funded industries (renewables, health tech)
• Remote-first companies hiring regardless of location

Lower paying:

• Local businesses building internal software
• Startups pre-funding
• Traditional industries with tech departments
• Government and non-profit organisations

The highest Geelong salaries approach Melbourne levels. The lowest are substantially below.

Beyond Base Salary

Total compensation matters. Components beyond base salary:

Equity: Some Geelong startups offer equity. Value is speculative but can be significant if companies succeed.

Flexibility: Remote work, flexible hours, and additional leave have value. Some Geelong employers compete on flexibility rather than salary.

Professional development: Training budgets, conference attendance, and learning time vary significantly between employers.

Superannuation: While legally mandated, some employers offer above-minimum contributions.

Other benefits: Health insurance, gym memberships, phone/internet subsidies—these add up.

A lower base salary with strong benefits can exceed a higher base salary with nothing additional.

The Negotiation Reality

Salary negotiation works differently in smaller markets.

Know your value: Research comparable roles and understand what you’re worth. Don’t accept below-market because you assume regional means discount.

Leverage scarcity: Good developers are hard to find in Geelong. If you’re qualified, you have negotiating power.

Consider the whole package: Sometimes employers have salary ceilings but flexibility elsewhere. Ask about other forms of compensation.

Be willing to walk: The best negotiating position is genuine alternatives. Apply to multiple opportunities.

Don’t assume: Some Geelong employers pay Melbourne rates. Others significantly undercut. Don’t make assumptions before asking.

Career Progression and Earning Potential

Long-term earning potential in Geelong has limitations.

Senior individual contributor: Achievable locally with strong salaries at the top end of ranges.

Management: Fewer management positions exist in regional markets. Those available often require broader responsibilities than metropolitan equivalents.

Executive/leadership: Very limited locally. Most paths to CTO or VP Engineering involve Melbourne or larger companies.

Some developers accept this trade-off for lifestyle benefits. Others plan regional years followed by metropolitan moves for career advancement.

Remote work changes the calculation—you can potentially progress into senior roles at Melbourne companies while remaining in Geelong.

Contract vs Permanent

Contract and freelance rates in Geelong:

Day rates: $500-$1000/day depending on experience and specialisation Hourly: $75-$150/hour

Contract work is viable but the market is smaller. Most contract opportunities come from Melbourne clients rather than local businesses.

Contracting offers higher theoretical earnings but with gaps between engagements, self-managed super, and no paid leave. Calculate the effective comparison carefully.

Making the Decision

If salary is your primary driver, Geelong may not suit. Maximum earnings are likely in Melbourne or Sydney, working for well-funded tech companies or finance industry.

If you’re optimising for life quality—housing costs, commute time, work environment, family considerations—Geelong can offer better value despite lower nominal salaries.

The happiest developers I’ve met in Geelong are those who made deliberate choices trading some salary potential for lifestyle benefits they actually value.

Those who moved reluctantly and resent the salary difference tend to struggle—and often move back.

Know what you want. Make informed choices. Salary is one variable among many.