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How to Become a Commercial Pilots in Texas

Commercial Pilots in Texas earn a median salary of $137,960/year, which is 12% above the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a commercial pilots takes home approximately $7,087/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$138K
Median salary in Texas
+12%
vs. national average
None
State income tax
4,120
Employed in Texas

What a commercial pilots can afford in Texas

Gross annual salary$137,960
Est. monthly take-home (no state tax)$8,754/mo
Median 2BR rent (Texas)-$1,667/mo
Rent as % of take-home19% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$137,960/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$7,087/mo

Becoming a commercial pilots in Texas

1

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.

2

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.

3

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.

4

Find positions in Texas

Texas employs 4,120 commercial pilots. The highest concentrations are in Midland and Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington.

Commercial Pilots salary by metro area in Texas

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Midland$198K$/hr50
Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington$160K$/hr1,810
Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos$132K$/hr200
Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands$131K$/hr790
San Antonio-New Braunfels$118K$/hr240
Corpus Christi$108K$/hr50
El Paso$95K$/hr80

Commercial Pilots salary range in Texas

10th percentile (entry)
$68K
25th percentile
$101K
Median (50th)
$138K
75th percentile
$196K
90th percentile (senior)
$260K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a commercial pilots make in Texas?

The median commercial pilots salary in Texas is $137,960 per year ($null/hr). This is 12% above the national median of $123,220. Salaries range from $68,460 to $259,990.

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 $137,960, a commercial pilots in Texas would take home approximately $8,754/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,667/month, that's 19% 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 Midland ($198,480), Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington ($160,160), Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos ($132,400). 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.