Respiratory Therapist Salary in Texas
The median respiratory therapist salary in Texas is $66,308 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $70,540.
Respiratory Therapist Salary Overview in Texas (2026)
Texas ranks #25 out of 50 states for respiratory therapist compensation. Texas falls in the middle of the pack for respiratory therapist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $66,308 per year, respiratory therapists in Texas earn $4,232 less than the national median of $70,540.
A key advantage of working in Texas is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $66,308 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $72,074 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Texas is significant: respiratory therapists at the 10th percentile earn $45,120, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $93,060 — a $47,940 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 $75,478.
Nationally, respiratory therapist employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Texas and beyond.
Respiratory Therapist Salary in Texas by Experience
In Texas, an entry-level respiratory therapist earns around $47,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $89,300 per year. The cost of living index in Texas is 92% of the national average.
Build Wealth on Your Income
With a $66,308 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.
See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Texas
| Percentile | TX Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $45,120 |
| 25th Percentile | $53,580 |
| Median (50th) | $66,308 |
| 75th Percentile | $80,840 |
| 90th Percentile | $93,060 |
Respiratory Therapist Salary by City in Texas
The largest employment areas for respiratory therapists 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 Respiratory Therapist in Texas
Education
Most respiratory therapist positions require a associate's degree. Texas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Texas
Nationally, respiratory therapist employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). Texas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 136,200 other Respiratory Therapists.
Get a Professional Resume →Open to Respiratory Therapist Roles in Texas?
Get matched with recruiters hiring respiratory therapists in Texas at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: