Registered Nurse Salary in Texas
The median registered nurse salary in Texas is $76,347 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Texas (2026)
Texas ranks #25 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. Texas falls in the middle of the pack for registered nurse pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $76,347 per year, registered nurses in Texas earn $4,873 less than the national median of $81,220.
A key advantage of working in Texas is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $76,347 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $82,986 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Texas is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $53,956, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $113,552 — a $59,596 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Texas for this role is Austin, where the median reaches $86,905.
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for registered nurses across the country.
Registered Nurse Salary in Texas by Experience
In Texas, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $54,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $108,100 per year. The cost of living index in Texas is 92% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Texas
| Percentile | TX Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $53,956 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,792 |
| Median (50th) | $76,347 |
| 75th Percentile | $95,034 |
| 90th Percentile | $113,552 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Texas
The largest employment areas for registered nurses in Texas include Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Texas
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Texas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Texas
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Texas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Registered Nurses who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $31,753 over your career trajectory.
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