Average RN Salary in Texas: See How Much TX Nurses Make

Whether you want to work in offbeat Austin, big cities like Houston or Dallas, or in rural nursing, the demand for registered nurses (RNs) in Texas is high, and the cost of living is below average.

This guide outlines RN salary ranges in Texas, where salaries are highest, and what other healthcare professionals earn. Keep reading for the information you need to negotiate your salary and plan for your career.

Texas is home to myriad healthcare employers, from massive hospitals and health systems in the major cities to small rural clinics. RNs earn a median $79,120, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This is lower than the national average of $82,750, but the cost-of-living index in Texas is 99.5, 0.5% lower than the national average.

Experience, responsibilities, certifications, local cost of living, demand, and type of employer are some of the most important factors in determining salaries.

Source:BLS

The real value of a salary offer depends on the local cost of living. Cost-of-living adjustments are based on how much typical goods and services cost in an area. These calculations include housing, food, medical care, transportation, recreation, and utilities. Of course, for a big state like Texas, the cost of living varies, with popular or big cities like San Antonio, Dallas, Houston, or Austin costing more.

Since the Texas cost-of-living index is 99.5, 0.5% lower than the national average, that is the equivalent of a 0.5% higher salary. This average RN salary in Texas is $79,516, after adjusting for the cost of living.

Houston and Dallas are the highest-paying cities for RNs, offering major healthcare systems and excellent recreation, dining, and entertainment options. In addition, the city of Austin is becoming a technology hub. The resulting population growth has increased the demand for nurses and RN salaries.

With a regional population of almost 500,000, Killeen – Temple rounds up the top five highest-paying urban areas. Nearby Fort Hood, the local military base, is the primary employer and driver of economic growth.

Source:BLS

If you are unsure about becoming an RN in Texas, you can begin your career as a nursing assistant or licensed vocational nurse (LVN). (Note: Texas and California use the term “licensed vocational nurse,” while other states use “licensed practical nurse.”

While nursing assistants and LVNs make considerably less money, it is easier and faster to earn this credential than it is an RN. Starting your nursing career with an LVN can give you valuable experience necessary when becoming an RN.

Similarly, if you want to earn more than the typical RN salary Texas employers offer, consider earning a master of science in nursing (MSN) and becoming a nurse practitioner. For an even higher salary, consider earning a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) and becoming a nurse anesthetist after you earn your RN.