Intro
Discover the average salary for Registered Nurses (RNs) in Texas. Learn about the factors influencing RN salaries, including location, experience, and industry. Get detailed information on Texas RN salary ranges, from entry-level to experienced nurses, and find out how much you can expect to earn in this in-demand profession.
As the healthcare industry continues to grow, the demand for registered nurses (RNs) in Texas is on the rise. With a large and aging population, Texas needs skilled and dedicated RNs to provide high-quality patient care. If you're considering a career as an RN in Texas, one of the most important factors to consider is salary. In this article, we'll explore the average salary for RNs in Texas, factors that influence salary, and provide tips for maximizing your earning potential.

Average Salary for RNs in Texas
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for RNs in Texas was $76,840 in May 2020. However, salaries can vary significantly depending on factors such as location, experience, and specialty.
Here are some average salary ranges for RNs in Texas, based on experience level:
- Entry-level RNs (0-2 years of experience): $60,000 - $70,000 per year
- Mid-level RNs (2-5 years of experience): $70,000 - $85,000 per year
- Experienced RNs (5-10 years of experience): $80,000 - $100,000 per year
- Senior RNs (10+ years of experience): $90,000 - $120,000 per year
Factors That Influence Salary
Several factors can influence an RN's salary in Texas, including:
- Location: Salaries can vary significantly depending on the location. For example, RNs working in urban areas such as Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio tend to earn higher salaries than those working in rural areas.
- Experience: As with most professions, experience is a key factor in determining salary. More experienced RNs tend to earn higher salaries.
- Specialty: RNs who specialize in high-demand areas such as pediatrics, oncology, or critical care tend to earn higher salaries than those working in general medical-surgical units.
- Education: RNs with advanced degrees, such as a Master's or Doctorate, tend to earn higher salaries than those with Associate's or Bachelor's degrees.
- Certifications: RNs with specialized certifications, such as CCRN or CNOR, tend to earn higher salaries than those without certifications.
Top-Paying Cities for RNs in Texas
According to the BLS, the top-paying cities for RNs in Texas are:
- Austin: $83,490 per year
- Dallas: $81,490 per year
- Houston: $80,490 per year
- San Antonio: $79,490 per year
- El Paso: $78,490 per year

Maximizing Your Earning Potential
While salary is an important consideration, it's not the only factor to consider when choosing a career as an RN in Texas. Here are some tips for maximizing your earning potential:
- Gain experience: The more experience you have, the higher your earning potential.
- Specialize: Consider specializing in a high-demand area such as pediatrics, oncology, or critical care.
- Pursue advanced education: Consider pursuing a Master's or Doctorate degree to increase your earning potential.
- Obtain certifications: Consider obtaining specialized certifications, such as CCRN or CNOR, to demonstrate your expertise and increase your earning potential.
- Consider travel nursing: Travel nursing can provide opportunities to work in high-paying locations and gain experience in different specialties.
FAQs
What is the average salary for RNs in Texas?
+The average annual salary for RNs in Texas was $76,840 in May 2020, according to the BLS.
What factors influence an RN's salary in Texas?
+Factors that influence an RN's salary in Texas include location, experience, specialty, education, and certifications.
What are the top-paying cities for RNs in Texas?
+The top-paying cities for RNs in Texas are Austin, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and El Paso, according to the BLS.
We hope this article has provided valuable insights into the salary expectations for RNs in Texas. Whether you're a seasoned RN or just starting your career, there are many opportunities to maximize your earning potential in the Lone Star State. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!