Registered Nurse in Wichita Falls, TX

The Salary Picture: Where Wichita Falls Stands

As a local who's watched the healthcare landscape here for years, I can tell you that Registered Nurses in Wichita Falls do just fine, especially considering the city's low cost of living. The median salary for an RN in this metro area is $83,203/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $40.0/hour. For context, the national average for RNs sits at $86,070/year, so Wichita Falls is only slightly below the national curve—a gap that's entirely erased by the city's affordability.

Wichita Falls isn't a sprawling metropolis like Dallas or Houston, but it's a regional healthcare hub for North Texas. With a metro population of 102,683, there's a steady demand for nurses, with 924 jobs available in the metro area. The 10-year job growth is projected at 6%, which is modest but stable, reflecting the consistent need in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

Here’s how salaries typically break down by experience level in Wichita Falls. These are local estimates based on job postings and industry surveys, aligned with the area's median.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Wichita Falls)	Estimated Hourly Rate
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$68,000 - $75,000	$32.50 - $36.00
Mid-Career (3-7 years)	$80,000 - $90,000	$38.50 - $43.25
Senior (8-15 years)	$88,000 - $98,000	$42.25 - $47.00
Expert/Clinical Leader (15+ years)	$95,000 - $110,000+	$45.50 - $52.75+

Insider Tip: The biggest salary jumps in Wichita Falls come from certifications (like CCRN or OCN) and moving into leadership roles. Nurses who specialize in ICU, ER, or oncology at the major hospitals often earn at the higher end of these ranges.

Compared to other Texas cities, Wichita Falls offers a compelling balance. Austin and Dallas RNs might see salaries 10-15% higher, but their rent and housing costs are often 50-100% higher. For example, while a Dallas RN might earn $92,000, their median rent could be $1,600/month versus Wichita Falls's $843/month. San Antonio RNs earn closer to $85,000, but they face a higher cost of living index (around 95 vs. Wichita Falls's 88.9). Bottom line: If you're prioritizing disposable income over big-city amenities, Wichita Falls punches above its weight.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about what an RN earning the median $83,203/year actually takes home. In Texas, there’s no state income tax, which is a huge plus. However, federal taxes, FICA (Social Security and Medicare), and other deductions will apply. Using a conservative estimate for a single filer with standard deductions, take-home pay after federal taxes and FICA is roughly $64,500/year (about $5,375/month). This assumes no other withholdings (like 401k or health insurance premiums, which would reduce it further).

Now, factor in rent. The average 1-bedroom apartment in Wichita Falls rents for $843/month. With utilities (electricity, water, internet, trash) averaging $200/month, your total housing cost is around $1,043/month. That leaves you with $4,332/month for groceries, transportation, insurance, savings, and discretionary spending. Compared to national averages, this is a comfortable buffer—especially since Wichita Falls’s cost of living index is 88.9 (US average = 100), meaning your money goes further here.

Can you afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in Wichita Falls is approximately $180,000. With a 20% down payment ($36,000), a 30-year mortgage at 6.5% interest would have a monthly payment of around $1,050 (including property taxes and insurance). That’s only $7 more per month than renting a 1-bedroom. Many local nurses I know buy homes within 2-3 years of moving here—often in neighborhoods like downtown or the Southwest side, which are popular with healthcare workers for their short commutes.

Here’s a monthly budget breakdown for an RN earning $83,203/year:

Category	Estimated Cost (Monthly)	Notes
Take-Home Pay	$5,375	After federal taxes & FICA
Rent (1BR Avg)	$843	Varies by neighborhood
Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet, Trash)	$200	Average for 1BR apartment
Groceries	$400	Single person, modest
Car Payment/Insurance	$450	Assumes $200 payment + $250 insurance
Health Insurance (Employer-Sponsored)	$300	Post-premium contribution
Discretionary / Savings	$2,182	For dining, entertainment, retirement, etc.

Insider Tip: To maximize savings, many nurses here take advantage of employer-provided housing stipends or sign-on bonuses, which are common at facilities like United Regional Health Care System. Also, consider splitting a 2-bedroom apartment with a roommate to cut rent to $500/month, freeing up over $300/month more for savings or a mortgage fund.

Where the Jobs Are: Wichita Falls's Major Employers

Wichita Falls’s healthcare sector is dominated by a few major players. The job market is tight-knit—networking at local events like the Wichita Falls Chamber of Commerce healthcare mixers can land you opportunities before they’re even posted. Here are the top employers, with details on hiring trends and specialties:

1. United Regional Health Care System – The largest employer in the region, with over 250 beds. They’re the go-to for trauma, cardiac, and surgical services. Hiring trends show strong demand for Med-Surg, ICU, and ER nurses. They often offer $5,000-$10,000 sign-on bonuses for full-time roles. Commute from most neighborhoods is under 15 minutes.

2. Texas Health Huguley Hospital – A 200-bed facility on the south side, specializing in maternity, pediatrics, and oncology. They’re expanding their cancer center, so oncology RNs are in high demand. Salaries here are aligned with the median, but they offer excellent benefits, including tuition reimbursement. Located near the Southwest neighborhood, with easy access from downtown.

3. Clinics of North Texas – A large multi-specialty outpatient group with multiple clinics in Wichita Falls. They’re hiring RNs for primary care, cardiology, and specialty clinics. Hours are typically M-F, 8-5, making it ideal for work-life balance. Salaries are slightly lower than hospitals but come with predictable schedules.

4. Wichita Falls Nursing & Rehabilitation Center – One of the area’s largest long-term care facilities, with 150+ beds. They’re always seeking RNs with geriatric or rehab specialties. The pace is steadier than a hospital, but the pay is competitive (often $75,000-$85,000). It’s located near the downtown area, making it walkable for those living centrally.

5. Midwestern State University (MSU) Health Clinic – The university’s on-campus clinic, which serves both students and the public. They frequently hire RNs for primary care and wellness roles. This is a great option if you’re looking for a less intense environment with regular hours. It’s on the north side, near the university district.

6. VA North Texas Health Care System (Wichita Falls Clinic) – The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs operates a clinic here, serving local veterans. They hire RNs for primary care and mental health. VA jobs come with federal benefits and a strong pension, but the hiring process can be slow. It’s a great long-term option for stability.

7. Local Urgent Care Chains – Companies like FastMed and CareNow have multiple locations in Wichita Falls. They offer flexible shifts (including weekends) and are perfect for nurses who want to avoid hospital shifts. Pay is in the range of $38-$42/hour, and they’re often hiring.

Insider Tip: The best time to apply is during summer (when new graduates enter the market) and early fall (for winter openings). Many employers use local staffing agencies like Texas Health Resources or Advantage RN for contract positions, which can lead to full-time roles.

Getting Licensed in TX

If you’re coming from another state, the Texas Board of Nursing (BON) is your governing body. Texas is a compact state, meaning if you hold an RN license from another compact state (e.g., Oklahoma or New Mexico), you can practice in Texas without additional paperwork. For non-compact states, here’s the process:

1. Verify Your Education: Your nursing program must be accredited by ACEN or CCNE. Texas recognizes most programs, but check the BON website for any exceptions.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN: If you haven’t already, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination. The BON requires official transcripts sent to Pearson VUE. The exam fee is $200.
3. Apply for Licensure: Submit an application through the Texas BON online portal. You’ll need:
   • A completed application form
   • Official transcripts
   • Background check (fingerprints) – $38.25
   • Proof of graduation
   • Application fee: $100
4. Timeline: From application to licensure, expect 4-8 weeks if everything is in order. If you need to retake the NCLEX, add another 45 days minimum.

Costs:

• NCLEX Exam: $200
• Background Check: $38.25
• Application Fee: $100
• Transcript Fees: $20-$50 (varies by school)
• Total: Approximately $358 - $388

Insider Tip: If you’re moving from a compact state, your license is immediately valid. For non-compact states, start the process at least 3 months before your move. The Texas BON website has a clear checklist; I recommend using their “Check Your Application Status” tool to avoid delays. Also, many employers in Wichita Falls will sponsor your license transfer if you’re hired—ask during interviews!

Best Neighborhoods for Registered Nurses

Wichita Falls is a compact city, so commutes are rarely long. The key is balancing proximity to hospitals, lifestyle, and rent. Here are four neighborhoods that are popular with nurses, based on commute and local insight:

1. Downtown / Historic District – This area is walkable, with cafes, bars, and the popular Kell Park for weekend walks. It’s close to United Regional and Wichita Falls Nursing & Rehab. Rent for a 1-bedroom is $750-$900. The vibe is artsy and community-focused, but parking can be tight. Ideal for nurses who want a short commute and urban feel.

2. Southwest Neighborhood – This is the go-to for families and young professionals. It’s near Texas Health Huguley and several clinics. Rent for a 1BR is $800-$950. The area has good schools, low crime, and easy access to Sheppard Air Force Base (a major employer). Commute to most hospitals is 10-15 minutes by car.

3. Midtown / Northside – A quieter, residential area near Midwestern State University. Rent is cheaper ($650-$800), and it’s close to the VA clinic and MSU Health. The commute to downtown hospitals is 15-20 minutes. It’s less trendy but peaceful—great if you work night shifts and need quiet during the day.

4. Northwest / Airport Area – This is the fastest-growing area with newer apartments and townhomes. Rent for a 1BR is $850-$1,000. It’s 10 minutes from United Regional and has easy highway access. The downside: fewer walkable amenities, but it’s perfect if you’re a car commuter who wants modern housing.

Insider Tip: If you’re on a tight budget, look for rentals in the East Side (near the airport). It’s a 15-minute drive to most hospitals, and 1-bedroom apartments can be found for $600-$700. Avoid the West Side near the base unless you’re military-affiliated; commutes can be longer due to traffic patterns.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Wichita Falls isn’t a massive medical research hub, but there are solid paths for advancement. The 10-year job growth of 6% indicates steady demand, especially in specialties. Here’s how to level up:

• Specialty Premiums: Certifications pay off. A CCRN (Critical Care) can add $5,000-$8,000 to your salary. An RN with a CEN (Emergency) or OCN (Oncology) can command similar premiums. Texas Health Huguley and United Regional both offer certification bonuses.

• Advancement Paths:

  • Clinical Ladder: Many hospitals have a clinical ladder program (e.g., RN I to RN IV), with each step adding $3,000-$6,000 annually.
  • Leadership: Charge nurse roles add $5,000-$10,000. A Nurse Manager position can push you into the $95,000-$110,000+ range.
  • Advanced Practice: Becoming an NP or CRNA requires further education (1-2 years). Local programs include MSU’s FNP track. NPs in Wichita Falls earn $110,000-$130,000.

• 10-Year Outlook: With the aging population and expansion of Texas Health Huguley’s cancer center, oncology and geriatric specialties will see the most growth. Telehealth is also emerging, with clinics adding remote RN roles. Long-term, Wichita Falls could become a niche hub for rural health innovation.

Insider Tip: Join the North Texas Nurses Association local chapter. They host quarterly networking events where you can meet managers—many jobs are filled through referrals before they’re advertised.

The Verdict: Is Wichita Falls Right for You?

Wichita Falls offers a rare blend of affordability, manageable workload, and community. It’s not for everyone, but for nurses prioritizing financial stability and quality of life, it’s a strong choice.

Pros	Cons
Low cost of living (index 88.9) with median RN salary $83,203	Limited nightlife and cultural amenities compared to bigger cities
Short commutes (most under 15 mins)	Fewer specialty research opportunities
Stable job market with 924 jobs and 6% growth	Winters can be windy and cold; summers are hot
Homeownership is achievable (median home $180k)	Public transportation is minimal; car is essential
Community feel with tight-knit healthcare networks	Can feel isolated if you’re used to bustling cities

Final Recommendation: If you’re a nurse with 2-7 years of experience looking to build savings, buy a home, and avoid the stress of big-city hospital systems, Wichita Falls is an excellent fit. It’s especially great for mid-career nurses seeking a manageable pace. However, if you’re a new grad craving high-energy learning or a specialist seeking cutting-edge research, you might find the scene too quiet. For most, the math works: $83,203 goes a lot further here than in Austin or Dallas.

FAQs

1. What’s the job market like for new RN graduates in Wichita Falls?
It’s competitive but promising. The local nursing schools (MSU and North Texas Medical College) feed a steady stream of grads, but with 924 jobs in the metro, new grads can find positions—especially in Med-Surg or long-term care. Hospitals often run new grad residency programs. Be patient; it may take 2-3 months to land a first job.

2. How does the cost of living impact an RN’s lifestyle here?
With a cost of living index of 88.9, your $83,203 salary feels like $93,500 nationally. After rent ($843/month) and taxes, you have over $2,000/month for savings or discretionary spending. Most nurses I know can afford a car, a nice apartment, and regular dining out—something that’s tough in pricier cities.

3. Are there opportunities for overtime or per-diem work?
Yes, especially at United Regional and Texas Health Huguley. Overtime is often available, paying 1.5x your hourly rate (so around $60/hour). Per-diem roles at clinics or urgent cares offer flexibility, with rates around $45-$50/hour. Many nurses pick up extra shifts