In Houston, TX, Registered Nurses earn a median of $93,330 a year — about 1% below the U.S. median of $94,480. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #18.
What that pay is worth in Houston
Local prices run 99 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $94,390 salary is about break-even with the national average ($95,702 adjusted).
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in Houston?
A typical Houston home runs about $253,400 — 2.7 times the average Registered Nurse salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,313/mo takes roughly 17% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Registered Nurse pay ladder in Houston
Entry-level (10th percentile) Registered Nurses earn about $67,810; the top 10% reach $115,460 — a $47,650 spread, moderate for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Registered Nurse job market in Houston
Houston employs roughly 61,860 Registered Nurses. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Houston with other cities
See the full Registered Nurse salary by city ranking to weigh Houston against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Registered Nurses make in Houston?
The average Registered Nurse in Houston, TX earns about $94,390 per year, 0.1% below the national average of $94,480.
What is the take-home pay for Registered Nurses in Houston after taxes?
After federal and TX taxes, this $94,390 salary is worth about $75,233 a year - roughly $6,269 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 20%.
What do the highest-paid Registered Nurses earn in Houston?
The top 10% of Registered Nurses in Houston earn about $115,460 a year, versus about $67,810 for the bottom 10%.
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in Houston?
A typical Houston home runs about $253,400 - roughly 2.7x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.