How School Counselors 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) | $52,300 | $39,700 | $68,000 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $65,000 | $49,400 | $84,500 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $74,800 | $56,800 | $97,200 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $89,700 | $68,100 | $116,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $101,700 | $77,200 | $132,100 |
Pay varies sharply within Texas. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Texas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin | $78,100 | $59,300 | $101,500 | +4% |
| Dallas–Fort Worth | $75,900 | $57,700 | $98,600 | +1% |
| Houston | $73,700 | $56,000 | $95,700 | -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 School Counselor salary in Texas is $74,800 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $56,800 and the 75th at $97,200.
Pay-wise, Texas sits +8% above the national School Counselor median ($69,200). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior School Counselors (10–14 years of experience) in Texas earn around $89,700 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $101,700 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Texas ranks 16th for School Counselor pay. The highest-paying state pays around $96,900 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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