How High School Teachers 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) | $55,500 | $42,200 | $72,300 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $69,000 | $52,500 | $89,800 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $79,400 | $60,400 | $103,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $95,200 | $72,400 | $123,900 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $107,900 | $82,100 | $140,400 |
Pay varies sharply within Texas. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Texas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin | $83,000 | $63,100 | $107,900 | +5% |
| Dallas–Fort Worth | $80,600 | $61,300 | $104,800 | +2% |
| Houston | $78,300 | $59,500 | $101,700 | -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 High School Teacher salary in Texas is $79,400 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $60,400 and the 75th at $103,300.
Pay-wise, Texas sits +8% above the national High School Teacher median ($73,500). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior High School Teachers (10–14 years of experience) in Texas earn around $95,200 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $107,900 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Texas ranks 16th for High School Teacher pay. The highest-paying state pays around $110,300 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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