Texas, known as the Lone Star State, has become a powerhouse of economic growth and career opportunity. With major corporations relocating and industries like tech, energy, and healthcare booming, professionals from across the country are eyeing Texas for their next career move. But what can you actually expect to earn? While the "average salary" is a single number, your actual potential earnings are influenced by a rich tapestry of factors.
This guide will break down the average salary in Texas, moving beyond the single statistic to explore the key drivers that will shape your personal earning potential, from your chosen city to your level of experience.
Understanding the 'Average Salary' in Texas
Before we dive into the numbers, it's crucial to understand what "average salary" means. You will often see two figures:
- Mean (or Average) Salary: This is the total of all salaries divided by the number of salaries. It can be skewed upwards by a small number of very high earners.
- Median Salary: This is the midpoint of all salaries. Half of the workers earn more than the median, and half earn less. This figure is often a more accurate representation of what a typical worker earns.
For the most comprehensive view, we will look at both figures from the most authoritative sources available.
The Average Salary in Texas: The Numbers
So, what does the data say? The average salary in Texas varies slightly depending on the source, due to different methodologies.
According to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics report (May 2023), which surveys employers across the state, the salary landscape in Texas is as follows:
- Mean Annual Wage: $62,370
- Median Annual Wage: $48,150
Data from popular salary aggregators, which primarily rely on user-submitted data, often shows a higher figure, likely because their user base is skewed towards professional roles.
- Salary.com (as of 2024) reports a median base salary in Texas of approximately $70,554.
- Payscale (as of 2024) states the average salary in Texas is $72,000.
Key Takeaway: A typical worker in Texas can expect to earn a salary in the range of $48,000 to $72,000. However, this is just a starting point. The following factors will have a much greater impact on your specific income.
Key Factors That Influence Salary in Texas
Your individual salary is a unique equation. Here are the most significant variables that determine your earning potential in the Lone Star State.
### Geographic Location
Where you work in Texas matters—a lot. Major metropolitan areas with high-demand industries and a higher cost of living command significantly higher salaries.
Here is a comparison of mean annual salaries for All Occupations across major Texas Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs), according to the BLS (May 2023):
| Metropolitan Area | Mean Annual Salary | Key Industries |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Austin-Round Rock | $69,470 | Technology, Advanced Manufacturing, Government |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $66,110 | Finance, Corporate HQs, Technology, Logistics |
| Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land | $65,990 | Energy (Oil & Gas), Healthcare, Aerospace |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $57,010 | Military/Defense, Healthcare, Tourism |
| El Paso | $50,560 | International Trade, Manufacturing, Government |
As the data shows, a professional in Austin can expect to earn nearly $20,000 more on average than someone in El Paso, reflecting the concentration of high-paying tech jobs in the state's capital.
### Specific Occupations and Industries
Your chosen profession is arguably the single most important factor. Texas is home to a diverse range of industries, and salaries reflect the demand for specific skills.
Here’s a look at the average salaries for various high-demand jobs in Texas (BLS, May 2023):
| Occupation | Mean Annual Salary in Texas |
| :--- | :--- |
| Petroleum Engineers | $164,170 |
| Chief Executives | $230,050 |
| Software Developers | $130,590 |
| Registered Nurses | $90,360 |
| Marketing Managers | $153,780 |
| Accountants and Auditors | $90,730 |
| Electricians | $60,280 |
| Retail Salespersons | $34,810 |
Industries like Technology, Energy (Oil & Gas), Healthcare, and Finance consistently offer the highest earning potential in the state.
### Years of Experience
Experience is a direct driver of value and, therefore, salary. Employers pay a premium for professionals who can solve complex problems, lead teams, and operate with autonomy. While data varies by specific role, a general progression looks like this:
- Entry-Level (0-2 years): Typically earn 15-25% below the median salary for their role as they build foundational skills.
- Mid-Career (3-8 years): Often earn at or slightly above the median, having proven their competence and ability to handle more responsibility.
- Senior/Lead Level (8+ years): Can command salaries 30-50%+ above the median, especially those with specialized skills or management experience.
### Level of Education
Higher education is strongly correlated with higher lifetime earnings. An advanced degree can open doors to leadership positions and specialized, high-paying roles.
According to national BLS data, median usual weekly earnings paint a clear picture:
- High School Diploma: ~$850/week
- Bachelor's Degree: ~$1,430/week
- Master's Degree: ~$1,680/week
- Professional/Doctoral Degree: ~$2,080/week
In Texas, this trend holds true. A candidate with a Master's in Engineering or an MBA will have access to significantly higher-paying jobs than one with only a bachelor's degree.
Job Outlook in Texas
The future for professionals in Texas looks exceptionally bright. The state's pro-business environment, lack of state income tax, and diversifying economy continue to attract talent and create jobs.
The Texas Workforce Commission projects that the state will add nearly 2 million jobs by 2030. The fastest-growing sectors are expected to be in Healthcare Support, Computer and Mathematical Occupations, and Personal Care services. This robust growth ensures a competitive and dynamic job market for years to come, providing stability and ample opportunities for career advancement.
Conclusion
While the average salary in Texas hovers between $48,000 and $72,000, this number is only the beginning of the story. Your true earning potential is a product of your specific circumstances.
To summarize the key takeaways for any aspiring professional considering a career in Texas:
1. Location is Key: Your salary can fluctuate by tens of thousands of dollars depending on which major city you choose.
2. Industry Matters Most: Targeting high-growth, high-demand sectors like tech, energy, and healthcare is the surest path to a top-tier salary.
3. Invest in Yourself: Experience and education are powerful levers for increasing your income over the course of your career.
4. The Outlook is Strong: Texas is not just a place to find a job, but a place to build a long-term, prosperous career.
By strategically positioning yourself in the right location and industry and continuously developing your skills, you can aim for a salary that far exceeds the state average and build a rewarding professional life in the Lone Star State.