The CEPlace

Thinking about taking your RT skills to the Lone Star State? Whether you're fresh out of school or decades into your career, understanding what respiratory therapists make in Texas can help you plan your next move—and your next raise. Let’s talk real numbers, what impacts your paycheck, and how investing in your continuing education can help you level up in a field that’s always evolving.

What’s the Average Salary of a Respiratory Therapist in Texas?

The average hourly wage for a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) in Texas is $34.86, according to recent job data. While that's about 11% lower than the national average of $38.76/hour, it’s still a solid rate—especially considering the growing demand for respiratory care across the state.

Here’s a quick breakdown of RT pay in key Texas cities:

City | Avg Hourly Salary | Max Hourly Salary
Fort Worth | $41 | $49
Arlington | $39 | $49
San Antonio | $36 | $46

So, if you're an RT in Texas—or considering moving there—you’ve got options.

What Affects RT Salaries in Texas?

RT pay in Texas isn’t one-size-fits-all. A few factors that influence your earning potential:

Credentials & Certifications: RRTs typically earn more than CRTs, and specialized certs (like neonatal/pediatric) can also bump your pay.
Experience: More years on the job often means higher pay tiers.
Shift Types: Night, weekend, or PRN shifts may come with premium pay.
Facility Type: Hospitals tend to pay more than long-term care or outpatient centers.
Location: Urban areas often pay higher than rural settings—but cost of living varies too.

How Texas Compares to Nearby States

State | Avg Hourly Salary
Missouri | $42
Colorado | $31
Kansas | $27

While Texas sits just below the national average, it’s higher-paying than several surrounding states—and with its lower cost of living in many cities, your dollars can stretch further.

Want to Boost Your Earnings? Start with Continuing Education

We know CEUs can sometimes feel like a checkbox, but they’re actually a powerful way to invest in your career. Staying up to date with the latest protocols for Texas, equipment, and state-specific compliance not only helps you provide better care—it can also make you more competitive in higher-paying roles.

If you're an RT in Texas, our Texas CEU Courses are built specifically for your state’s licensing requirements. It’s:

100% online and self-paced
Designed for busy RTs balancing work and life
Created to help you check the box, while leveling up your skills

Quick Recap

Average Texas RT salary: ~$34.86/hour
National average: ~$38.76/hour
Top-paying cities: Fort Worth, Arlington, San Antonio
Highest pay boosts: Credentials, shifts, specialties
Best way to grow your value: Invest in CEUs sooner rather than later

No matter where you are in your RT journey, staying current on your education is one of the best ways to advance, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.