Physician Assistants Salary in Dallas, TX (2026)

Salary Overview

Physician Assistants in Dallas, Texas earn an average salary of $133,140, which matches the median salary for the role in this market. This means half of PAs earn above this figure and half earn below it. The salary range is substantial: the 25th percentile earns $110,694, while the 75th percentile reaches $155,361. This $44,667 spread indicates significant earning potential based on experience, specialization, and employer type. Year-over-year growth of 1.9% suggests steady but modest salary increases in the Dallas market.

Cost of Living Impact

Dallas has a cost of living index of 104, meaning expenses are 4% higher than the national average. However, this doesn't significantly erode your purchasing power. Your effective purchasing power of $128,481 remains strong, indicating that your $133,140 salary stretches reasonably well in Dallas. Housing, transportation, and healthcare costs are slightly elevated compared to national averages, but Dallas remains more affordable than major coastal cities. Your salary provides solid middle-class stability with room for savings and investment, particularly if you're strategic about housing and discretionary spending.

National Comparison

Dallas PAs earn $2,650 more than the national average of $130,490, positioning Dallas as a slightly above-average market for this profession. This modest premium reflects Dallas's growing healthcare sector and competitive medical market. While not as high as major metropolitan areas like New York or San Francisco, Dallas offers better cost-of-living-adjusted compensation than many comparable cities. The 1.9% annual growth rate aligns with national trends, suggesting Dallas is keeping pace with broader salary movements in the PA field.

Factors Affecting Pay in Dallas

Several factors influence PA compensation in Dallas. Specialization matters significantly—emergency medicine, orthopedic surgery, and cardiology typically pay more than primary care. Employer type affects salary substantially; hospital systems and surgical centers often pay more than private practices. Experience is crucial; newer PAs start around $110,694, while experienced practitioners command $155,361 or higher. Board certification and additional credentials can increase earning potential. The Dallas healthcare market's competitiveness, driven by major medical centers like UT Southwestern and Baylor Scott & White, influences salary levels. Geographic location within the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex also matters, with some suburban areas offering different compensation packages.

Reaching the Top 25%

To reach the 75th percentile earning of $155,361, pursue specialized certifications in high-demand fields like surgery, emergency medicine, or critical care. Develop expertise in procedures—procedurally-focused PAs consistently earn more. Seek positions with major hospital systems or surgical centers rather than smaller practices. Build a strong reputation and patient following, which increases your negotiating power. Consider leadership roles or administrative positions that command premium compensation. Network actively within Dallas's medical community and stay current with continuing education. Negotiate aggressively during hiring; many employers have flexibility in their offers. Finally, consider relocating within Dallas to higher-paying specialties or facilities as your career progresses.