How to Become a Paralegals and Legal Assistants in Texas
Paralegals and Legal Assistants in Texas earn a median salary of $59,700/year, which is 2% below the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a paralegals and legal assistants takes home approximately $2,755/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a paralegals and legal assistants can afford in Texas
Becoming a paralegals and legal assistants in Texas
Meet education requirements
Paralegals and Legal Assistants positions in Texas typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Texas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many paralegals and legal assistants 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 paralegals and legal assistantss. 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 28,770 paralegals and legal assistants. The highest concentrations are in Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands and Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington.
Paralegals and Legal Assistants salary by metro area in Texas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands | $65K | $31.13/hr | 6,580 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $61K | $29.28/hr | 8,100 |
| Midland | $60K | $29.06/hr | 110 |
| Longview | $60K | $28.65/hr | 200 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $57K | $27.64/hr | 2,940 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos | $53K | $25.48/hr | 4,450 |
| Amarillo | $53K | $25.31/hr | 210 |
| Waco | $51K | $24.41/hr | 230 |
| Corpus Christi | $50K | $24.21/hr | 470 |
| College Station-Bryan | $50K | $24.17/hr | 190 |
| Texarkana | $50K | $24.03/hr | 70 |
| Victoria | $49K | $23.78/hr | 40 |
| Tyler | $49K | $23.57/hr | 320 |
| Killeen-Temple | $49K | $23.56/hr | 240 |
| El Paso | $49K | $23.32/hr | 630 |
Paralegals and Legal Assistants salary range in Texas
Paralegals and Legal Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a paralegals and legal assistants make in Texas?▼
The median paralegals and legal assistants salary in Texas is $59,700 per year ($28.7/hr). This is 2% below the national median of $61,010. Salaries range from $37,850 to $96,530.
What are the requirements to become a paralegals and legal assistants in Texas?▼
Paralegals and Legal Assistants positions in Texas typically require Associate'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 paralegals and legal assistants afford to live in Texas?▼
At the median salary of $59,700, a paralegals and legal assistants in Texas would take home approximately $4,167/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 33.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for paralegals and legal assistants in Texas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for paralegals and legal assistants in Texas are Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands ($64,750), Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington ($60,900), Midland ($60,450). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Texas have state income tax for paralegals and legal assistants?▼
No, Texas does not have a state income tax. This means paralegals and legal assistants keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.