How to Become a Commercial Pilots in Texas
Commercial Pilots in Texas earn a median salary of $162,930/year, which is 33% above the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a commercial pilots takes home approximately $8,764/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a commercial pilots can afford in Texas
Becoming a commercial pilots in Texas
Meet education requirements
Commercial Pilots positions in Texas typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Texas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many commercial pilots positions in Texas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Texas licensure or certification
Texas may require specific licensing or professional certification for commercial pilotss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Texas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Texas
Texas employs 5,030 commercial pilots. The highest concentrations are in Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington and Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands.
Commercial Pilots salary by metro area in Texas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $189K | $/hr | 2,480 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands | $167K | $/hr | 950 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $140K | $/hr | 260 |
| Killeen-Temple | $133K | $/hr | 60 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos | $129K | $/hr | 280 |
| Midland | $109K | $/hr | 40 |
| Corpus Christi | $105K | $/hr | 50 |
| El Paso | $100K | $/hr | 110 |
| Longview | $100K | $/hr | 30 |
| Lubbock | $87K | $/hr | 40 |
Commercial Pilots salary range in Texas
Commercial Pilots careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a commercial pilots make in Texas?▼
The median commercial pilots salary in Texas is $162,930 per year ($null/hr). This is 33% above the national median of $122,670. Salaries range from $63,140 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a commercial pilots in Texas?▼
Commercial Pilots positions in Texas typically require No formal educational credential. Texas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Texas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a commercial pilots afford to live in Texas?▼
At the median salary of $162,930, a commercial pilots in Texas would take home approximately $10,176/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 13.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for commercial pilots in Texas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for commercial pilots in Texas are Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington ($188,920), Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands ($167,210), San Antonio-New Braunfels ($139,550). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Texas have state income tax for commercial pilots?▼
No, Texas does not have a state income tax. This means commercial pilots keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.