How to Become a Correctional Officers and Jailers in Texas
Correctional Officers and Jailers in Texas earn a median salary of $51,020/year, which is 12% below the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a correctional officers and jailers takes home approximately $2,174/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a correctional officers and jailers can afford in Texas
Becoming a correctional officers and jailers in Texas
Meet education requirements
Correctional Officers and Jailers positions in Texas typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Texas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many correctional officers and jailers 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 correctional officers and jailerss. 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 39,150 correctional officers and jailers. The highest concentrations are in Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos and Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington.
Correctional Officers and Jailers salary by metro area in Texas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos | $59K | $28.28/hr | 1,850 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $58K | $28.02/hr | 5,030 |
| Laredo | $55K | $26.34/hr | 290 |
| El Paso | $55K | $26.32/hr | 1,190 |
| Amarillo | $54K | $26.12/hr | 440 |
| College Station-Bryan | $53K | $25.52/hr | 390 |
| Lubbock | $51K | $24.6/hr | 790 |
| Killeen-Temple | $51K | $24.53/hr | 1,240 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur | $51K | $24.53/hr | 1,540 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands | $51K | $24.53/hr | 8,060 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $51K | $24.53/hr | 1,770 |
| Wichita Falls | $51K | $24.53/hr | 550 |
| Abilene | $50K | $23.88/hr | 670 |
| Waco | $48K | $23.28/hr | 670 |
| Texarkana | $48K | $23.23/hr | 620 |
Correctional Officers and Jailers salary range in Texas
Correctional Officers and Jailers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a correctional officers and jailers make in Texas?▼
The median correctional officers and jailers salary in Texas is $51,020 per year ($24.53/hr). This is 12% below the national median of $57,970. Salaries range from $44,660 to $61,270.
What are the requirements to become a correctional officers and jailers in Texas?▼
Correctional Officers and Jailers positions in Texas typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Texas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Texas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a correctional officers and jailers afford to live in Texas?▼
At the median salary of $51,020, a correctional officers and jailers in Texas would take home approximately $3,586/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 39.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for correctional officers and jailers in Texas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for correctional officers and jailers in Texas are Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos ($58,820), Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington ($58,290), Laredo ($54,790). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Texas have state income tax for correctional officers and jailers?▼
No, Texas does not have a state income tax. This means correctional officers and jailers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.