How to Become a Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers in Texas
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers in Texas earn a median salary of $44,790/year, which is 25% below the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a mental health and substance abuse social workers takes home approximately $1,757/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a mental health and substance abuse social workers can afford in Texas
Becoming a mental health and substance abuse social workers in Texas
Meet education requirements
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers positions in Texas typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Texas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many mental health and substance abuse social workers 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 mental health and substance abuse social workerss. 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 5,810 mental health and substance abuse social workers. The highest concentrations are in San Angelo and Killeen-Temple.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers salary by metro area in Texas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Angelo | $75K | $35.93/hr | 50 |
| Killeen-Temple | $65K | $31.07/hr | 50 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands | $52K | $25.21/hr | 820 |
| College Station-Bryan | $49K | $23.65/hr | 100 |
| Abilene | $48K | $23.23/hr | 70 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos | $47K | $22.82/hr | 530 |
| El Paso | $45K | $21.53/hr | 230 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $44K | $21.11/hr | 1,590 |
| Victoria | $44K | $21.01/hr | 50 |
| McAllen-Edinburg-Mission | $43K | $20.68/hr | 320 |
| Laredo | $42K | $20.25/hr | 160 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $42K | $20.23/hr | 460 |
| Waco | $42K | $20.09/hr | 140 |
| Corpus Christi | $40K | $19.32/hr | 120 |
| Brownsville-Harlingen | $40K | $19.09/hr | 200 |
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers salary range in Texas
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a mental health and substance abuse social workers make in Texas?▼
The median mental health and substance abuse social workers salary in Texas is $44,790 per year ($21.53/hr). This is 25% below the national median of $60,060. Salaries range from $36,990 to $78,900.
What are the requirements to become a mental health and substance abuse social workers in Texas?▼
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers positions in Texas typically require Master's degree. Texas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Texas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a mental health and substance abuse social workers afford to live in Texas?▼
At the median salary of $44,790, a mental health and substance abuse social workers in Texas would take home approximately $3,169/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 44.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for mental health and substance abuse social workers in Texas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for mental health and substance abuse social workers in Texas are San Angelo ($74,730), Killeen-Temple ($64,630), Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands ($52,430). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Texas have state income tax for mental health and substance abuse social workers?▼
No, Texas does not have a state income tax. This means mental health and substance abuse social workers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.