Registered nurses (RNs) in Texas enjoy competitive pay, strong job growth, and diverse employment opportunities across hospitals, outpatient centers, and specialty clinics. Whether you’re a new graduate or an experienced RN considering relocation, understanding RN salary in Texas can help you plan your next move.
This guide covers:
-
Average RN pay in Texas
-
Salary by city and metro area
-
Pay by experience level
-
Highest-paying nursing specialties
-
RN vs BSN salary comparison
-
Career outlook and ways to increase earnings
Average RN Salary in Texas (2026)
According to recent labor data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses in Texas earn:
-
Average Annual Salary: $79,000 – $86,000
-
Average Hourly Wage: $38 – $42 per hour
-
Top 10% Earnings: $105,000+ annually
Actual salary depends on location, certifications, specialty, shift differentials, and employer type.
RN Salary in Texas by Experience Level
Experience plays a major role in determining RN pay.
| Experience Level | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 years) | $62,000 – $70,000 | $30 – $34 |
| Mid-Career (3–7 years) | $75,000 – $85,000 | $36 – $41 |
| Experienced (8–15 years) | $85,000 – $98,000 | $41 – $47 |
| Senior RN (15+ years) | $95,000 – $110,000+ | $46 – $53 |
RNs who take on leadership roles such as charge nurse or nurse supervisor can earn significantly more.
RN Salary in Texas by City (Highest Paying Areas)
Urban areas typically offer higher wages due to cost of living and demand.
| City | Average Annual RN Salary | Why It Pays More |
|---|---|---|
| Houston | $84,000 – $92,000 | Large medical centers & specialty hospitals |
| Dallas | $82,000 – $90,000 | Major healthcare systems |
| Austin | $80,000 – $88,000 | Growing population & tech-driven healthcare |
| San Antonio | $78,000 – $86,000 | Military & regional hospitals |
| Fort Worth | $80,000 – $87,000 | Expanding healthcare network |
Rural areas may offer lower base pay but sometimes provide sign-on bonuses or loan repayment incentives.
Highest Paying RN Specialties in Texas
Certain specialties command higher salaries due to advanced skills and certifications.
| Specialty | Average Annual Salary | Certification Impact |
|---|---|---|
| ICU Nurse | $90,000 – $105,000 | CCRN increases earning potential |
| ER Nurse | $88,000 – $100,000 | Trauma certifications add value |
| OR Nurse | $92,000 – $108,000 | CNOR certification recommended |
| Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) | $180,000 – $220,000 | Requires graduate degree |
| Travel RN | $95,000 – $130,000 | Short-term contract premium |
Advanced practice roles such as nurse practitioners and CRNAs significantly exceed standard RN pay.
RN vs BSN Salary in Texas
Education level impacts salary potential.
| Degree | Average Annual Salary | Career Advancement |
|---|---|---|
| ADN (Associate Degree) | $70,000 – $80,000 | Staff RN roles |
| BSN (Bachelor’s Degree) | $78,000 – $90,000 | Leadership & specialty roles |
| MSN | $95,000+ | Advanced practice roles |
Hospitals increasingly prefer BSN-prepared nurses, particularly in metropolitan areas.
Texas vs National RN Salary Comparison
| Location | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Texas | $79,000 – $86,000 |
| United States Average | $86,000 – $95,000 |
| California | $110,000 – $130,000 |
| New York | $95,000 – $105,000 |
While Texas salaries may be slightly below some coastal states, the lower cost of living and absence of state income tax can increase take-home pay.
Job Outlook for Registered Nurses in Texas
The demand for RNs continues to grow due to:
-
Aging population
-
Expansion of outpatient care
-
Increased chronic disease management
-
Healthcare facility expansion
Texas remains one of the fastest-growing states for healthcare employment, with thousands of new RN positions projected annually.
How to Increase Your RN Salary in Texas
If you want to maximize your earnings, consider:
-
Earn specialty certifications (ICU, ER, OR)
-
Work night shifts or weekends (shift differentials apply)
-
Negotiate sign-on bonuses
-
Pursue travel nursing contracts
-
Advance your education (BSN or MSN)
-
Apply at large medical systems in metro areas
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a new RN make in Texas?
Entry-level RNs typically earn between $62,000 and $70,000 per year.
What is the highest paid RN specialty in Texas?
CRNAs earn the highest salaries, often exceeding $200,000 annually.
Is Texas a good state for nurses?
Yes. Strong job growth, no state income tax, and competitive wages make Texas attractive for RNs.
Comparison: RN Salary in Texas at a Glance
| Category | Low End | Average | High End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry RN | $62,000 | $66,000 | $70,000 |
| Mid-Level RN | $75,000 | $82,000 | $85,000 |
| Experienced RN | $85,000 | $92,000 | $110,000+ |
| ICU/OR Specialty | $90,000 | $100,000 | $108,000+ |
| CRNA | $180,000 | $200,000 | $220,000+ |
Final Thoughts
RN salary in Texas offers solid earning potential, especially in major cities and specialized roles. While base pay varies by region and experience, opportunities for advancement and supplemental income make Texas a strong choice for nursing professionals.
If you're planning a move, pursuing certification, or negotiating your next contract, understanding local salary trends can help you maximize your income and long-term career growth.
No comments:
Post a Comment