Average Salary in Texas by Career (2025 Guide)
Texas is the second-largest economy in the United States and one of the most dynamic job markets for trade and healthcare workers. No state income tax, a lower cost of living than coastal states, and explosive population growth create strong demand across every skilled trade and healthcare field. Here's the complete salary picture for Texas careers in 2025.
Average Texas Salaries by Career (2025)
| Career | Texas Annual Mean Wage | National Median | vs. National |
|---|---|---|---|
| HVAC Technician | $57,210 | $57,300 | -0.2% |
| Electrician | $59,820 | $61,590 | -2.9% |
| Plumber | $58,340 | $61,550 | -5.2% |
| Welder | $50,920 | $47,010 | +8.3% |
| Pipefitter | $64,810 | $61,550 | +5.3% |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | $74,310 | $81,220 | -8.5% |
| Dental Hygienist | $78,940 | $81,400 | -3.0% |
| Radiologic Technologist | $68,920 | $65,140 | +5.8% |
| Surgical Technologist | $58,640 | $57,800 | +1.5% |
| CDL Truck Driver | $51,840 | $49,920 | +3.8% |
| Pharmacy Technician | $38,640 | $37,790 | +2.3% |
| EMT / Paramedic | $41,820 | $38,930 | +7.4% |
| Ironworker | $55,840 | $57,600 | -3.1% |
| Carpenter | $47,920 | $56,350 | -15.0% |
| Solar Installer | $46,210 | $47,890 | -3.5% |
| Police Officer | $63,840 | $67,290 | -5.1% |
| Firefighter | $53,610 | $54,650 | -1.9% |
| IT Support Specialist | $57,840 | $60,810 | -4.9% |
| Paralegal | $57,320 | $59,200 | -3.2% |
| Cybersecurity Analyst | $104,840 | $120,360 | -12.9% |
The Oil & Gas Premium: Texas's energy industry adds a significant premium for welders, pipefitters, and certain HVAC and electrical workers. A pipefitter working on a Permian Basin pipeline project can earn $70,000–$90,000 annually — well above the Texas average. Welders with API 1104 certification targeting pipeline work often earn $80,000–$120,000+ with overtime.
Why Texas Is a Top Destination for Trade Workers
- No state income tax: Keeps significantly more of your paycheck compared to California, New York, or Illinois.
- Population growth: Texas adds more than 500,000 residents annually. Every new home, apartment complex, school, and hospital needs trade workers.
- Energy industry: The Permian Basin, Eagle Ford Shale, and Gulf Coast refineries create premium-paying industrial trade opportunities.
- Cost of living: Texas's cost of living index is approximately 8–12% below the national average in most metros, making $57,000 in Texas stretch further than $65,000 in many other states.
- Business-friendly environment: Texas's low regulatory burden makes it easier for tradespeople to obtain contractor licenses and launch businesses.
Top Texas Metros for Trade and Healthcare Careers
| Metro Area | Key Industries | Wage vs. Texas Average |
|---|---|---|
| Houston | Energy, petrochemicals, healthcare, construction | +10–18% |
| Dallas-Fort Worth | Construction, healthcare, IT, logistics | +8–15% |
| Austin | Tech construction, solar, healthcare | +5–12% |
| San Antonio | Healthcare (military), construction, logistics | +2–6% |
| Midland-Odessa | Oil & gas, industrial trades | +15–25% (energy premium) |
Texas Licensing for Trades and Healthcare
Texas has relatively straightforward licensing for most trade careers:
- Electricians: Licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Requires apprentice, journeyman, and master license levels.
- Plumbers: Licensed by the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners. One of the more streamlined state licensing processes.
- HVAC: Licensed through TDLR. EPA 608 certification required for refrigerant handling.
- Healthcare: Texas Health and Human Services and Texas Medical Board oversee healthcare licensing. Texas participates in nursing compact licensure.
Find programs in Texas via our Texas Career Guide. Compare with California salaries.
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