How Registered Nurse (RN)s in Texas get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Texas compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $71,600 | $54,400 | $93,100 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $89,000 | $67,600 | $115,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $102,400 | $77,800 | $133,100 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $122,800 | $93,300 | $159,700 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $139,200 | $105,800 | $181,000 |
Pay varies sharply within Texas. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Texas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin | $107,000 | $81,300 | $139,000 | +4% |
| Dallas–Fort Worth | $103,900 | $79,000 | $135,100 | +1% |
| Houston | $100,900 | $76,700 | $131,100 | -1% |
Top occupations by median pay in Texas — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Registered Nurse (RN) salary in Texas is $102,400 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $77,800 and the 75th at $133,100.
Pay-wise, Texas sits +8% above the national Registered Nurse (RN) median ($94,800). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Registered Nurse (RN)s (10–14 years of experience) in Texas earn around $122,800 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $139,200 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Texas ranks 17th for Registered Nurse (RN) pay. The highest-paying state pays around $153,600 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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