The starting salary for a registered nurse (RN) in Texas typically ranges from $57,046 to $83,274 per year, with an average of $72,322 annually or $39.36 per hour. Entry-level RNs can expect salaries on the lower end, while experienced nurses or those in specialized fields earn more. Salaries vary by city, employer, and additional certifications. Texas RN salaries are slightly lower than the national average but remain competitive, especially in metropolitan areas like Houston and Dallas.
Registered Nurse (RN) Salaries in Texas: A Comprehensive Guide
Registered nurses (RNs) play a vital role in the healthcare industry, and their salaries vary depending on experience, location, and demand. Texas, known for its diverse healthcare opportunities, offers competitive wages for RNs. This article explores the average salaries, starting pay, and factors influencing RN earnings in Texas.
Average RN Salary in Texas
The average salary for a registered nurse in Texas is approximately $72,322 per year. However, salaries can vary significantly based on factors such as location, education, and experience level.
- Annual Salary Range: $57,046 – $83,274
- Hourly Wage: $39.36 per hour
- Median Salary (NurseJournal.org): $79,120 per year
- 80% of Texas RNs Earn Between: $59,780 and $99,070 (Incredible Health)
- Top-Paying Regions: Houston, The Woodlands, and Sugar Land ($81,350 per year)
Starting Salary for RNs in Texas
Newly graduated nurses in Texas typically start their careers with salaries on the lower end of the spectrum. The entry-level salary for an RN in Texas falls between $57,046 and $83,274, with an average starting salary of $72,322 per year.
RN Salaries Based on Experience
- Entry-Level (0-1 year experience): $57,046 – $72,322 annually
- Mid-Career (5-10 years experience): $72,322 – $95,000 annually
- Experienced RNs (10+ years): $95,000 – $105,270 annually
Hourly Pay for Registered Nurses in Texas
RNs in Texas earn an average hourly wage of $39.36 per hour, but pay varies depending on experience and employer. According to ZipRecruiter:
- 25th Percentile: $29.33 per hour
- 75th Percentile: $46.59 per hour
- Highest Reported Rate: $67.19 per hour
Regional Variations in RN Salaries
RN salaries in Texas vary by city and region due to cost of living and demand. Here are some key figures:
- Houston/The Woodlands/Sugar Land: $81,350 per year
- Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex: $77,600 per year
- Austin-Round Rock: $76,980 per year
- San Antonio-New Braunfels: $74,320 per year
RN Salary Comparisons: Texas vs. National Average
While Texas offers competitive salaries, it still falls slightly below the national average for RN pay. The national average salary for RNs is $82,750 per year, meaning Texas RNs earn about 4% less than the national average.
Factors Influencing RN Salaries in Texas
Several factors impact RN salaries in Texas:
- Experience Level – More experience often leads to higher wages.
- Location – Urban areas tend to offer higher salaries than rural regions.
- Education & Certifications – Advanced degrees and specialized certifications can increase earning potential.
- Employer Type – Hospitals typically pay more than nursing homes or outpatient facilities.
FAQs
1. How much do RNs start off making in Texas?
- Entry-level RNs earn between $57,046 and $72,322 per year.
2. What is the hourly rate for an RN in Texas?
- The average hourly wage is $39.36, with a range from $29.33 to $67.19.
3. Can RNs make over $100,000 in Texas?
- Yes, experienced nurses, particularly those in specialized fields or high-demand locations, can earn over $100,000 per year.
4. What are the highest-paying RN jobs in Texas?
- Nurse anesthetists, critical care nurses, and nurse practitioners tend to earn the highest salaries in Texas.
Final Thoughts
Texas offers a promising career path for registered nurses with competitive salaries and a growing demand for healthcare professionals. Whether you are an aspiring nurse or an experienced RN, understanding salary trends can help you make informed career decisions.