Energy capital, NASA, world-class medical center. Here's how Respiratory Therapists in Houston get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Houston metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $64,000 | $48,600 | $83,200 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $79,600 | $60,400 | $103,400 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $91,500 | $69,500 | $118,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $109,800 | $83,400 | $142,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $124,400 | $94,500 | $161,700 |
Highest-paying metros for Respiratory Therapists — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Houston metro economy.
The average Respiratory Therapist salary in the Houston metro is $91,500 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $69,500 to $118,900 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $151,000 or more.
Yes — Houston pays -2% relative to the Texas state median for Respiratory Therapists. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Houston vs. national: +6%. Houston pays roughly in line with the national average for Respiratory Therapists. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Houston, the median Respiratory Therapist salary of $91,500 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Respiratory Therapists in Houston start around $64,000, while seniors (10+ years) reach $109,800 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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