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Top Career Opportunities in Dallas–Fort Worth for 2025 and Beyond

Quick Summary

  • Dallas–Fort Worth added jobs at a steady pace in 2025, with low unemployment and strong wage growth.
  • Healthcare is the fastest-growing sector, with roles like RN, MA, and pharmacy tech in high demand.
  • Tech jobs in DFW are booming, especially in software development, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.
  • Business, finance, and admin roles offer stable salaries and entry points with short-term training.
  • Skilled trades like HVAC, CDL driving, and welding offer high pay with fast training and no degree required.
  • Jobs paying $20/hour and $100k+ are widely available across healthcare, tech, trades, and business.

Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW) remains one of the top job markets in the U.S. in 2025, thanks to its diverse economy, strong wage growth, and low unemployment. 

The metro added jobs at an annualized rate of 2.1% in May, while the unemployment rate held steady at 3.9%. The average hourly wage in DFW reached $36.60, slightly above the national average—making it an ideal environment for job seekers, career changers, and new graduates.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best-paying and most in-demand careers in DFW—with real data, salary benchmarks, and practical training paths to help you break into growing fields like healthcare, IT, skilled trades, and business support.

DFW Job Market Snapshot: 2025

Before diving into specific careers, here’s a look at what’s driving the metro’s growth:

MetricValue (2025)
Total Employment4.3 million+
Annual Job Growth+46,800 jobs
Unemployment Rate3.8%
Avg. Hourly Wage$36.60
Top Growth SectorsHealth & Social Assistance, Construction, Trade & Transportation, Finance, IT

1. Healthcare: DFW’s Fastest-Growing Sector

Healthcare remains the leading growth sector across Texas—and Dallas–Fort Worth is no exception. Fueled by population growth, an aging demographic, and the expansion of hospital systems, the region added over 10,000 healthcare jobs in the past year alone.

High-Demand Healthcare Roles in DFW

RoleMedian Salary (Dallas)Training Requirement
Registered Nurse (RN)$98 k+/yearAssociate/Bachelor’s + NCLEX
Medical Assistant$45k+/yearCertificate Program
Pharmacy Technician$42k+/yearCertificate + Certification
Health Information Technician$71k+/yearCertificate/Associate
Radiologic Technologist$93k+/yearAssociate Degree

Job Outlook: Healthcare occupations are expected to experience much faster-than-average growth from 2023 to 2033. Roughly 1.9 million annual openings will occur, driven by both job growth and replacement needs.

For a more specific example: Medical Assistant jobs alone are projected to grow ~14% from 2022 to 2032, also significantly above average.

Explore Medical Billing & Coding or Medical Assistant training programs designed to prepare you for these in-demand roles.

2. Information Technology: Tech Is Thriving in North Texas

Dallas is quietly becoming a tech powerhouse, earning the nickname “Silicon Prairie.” With global firms like AT&T, Texas Instruments, and IBM operating in the region—and hundreds of startups in AI, cloud, and cybersecurity—IT jobs are on the rise.

Despite national slowdowns in big tech, DFW’s tech hiring remains strong. Salaries are rising, and employers increasingly value certifications and hands-on skills over traditional degrees.

In-Demand IT Jobs in Dallas–Fort Worth

RoleMedian Salary (Dallas)Recommended Entry Path
Software Developer$107,524+/yearDegree or bootcamp
Cybersecurity Analyst$108,812+/yearCertification-focused
IT Support Specialist$89,975+/yearCompTIA A+ / Network+
Network Administrator$76,431+/yearCompTIA + Cisco Certified
Cloud Solutions Specialist$117,331+/yearAWS / Azure Certification

Learn more about Cybersecurity or Computer & Network Technician training.

3. Business, Finance & Office Admin: Opportunities in Every Sector

Dallas is home to over 20 Fortune 500 headquarters, making it a hub for corporate roles. Even beyond the C-suite, office-based jobs in administration, accounting, HR, and customer service offer stable career paths with excellent growth potential.

Top Roles in Business and Finance

RoleMedian Salary (Dallas)Entry Path
Administrative Assistant$41,950+/yearMicrosoft Office skills
Bookkeeper / Payroll Clerk$49,242+/yearAccounting software training
Human Resources Specialist$83,765+/yearSHRM-CP / Bachelor’s
Financial Analyst$83,545+/yearBachelor’s / Excel + BI

Dallas also has a high demand for Excel specialists and QuickBooks pros. Skills in data management, financial reporting, and business operations are highly transferable across industries.

Build job-ready skills with the Business & Accounting training Program.

4. Skilled Trades: High Pay, Short Training Paths

Not all good jobs require a degree—and skilled trades are proof of that. Construction, HVAC, welding, plumbing, and commercial driving are booming in the DFW region, driven by infrastructure expansion and housing demand.

Top Skilled Trade Jobs in DFW

RoleMedian Salary (Dallas)Training Time
Electrician (Licensed)$63,991+/year1–4 years + license
HVAC Technician$49,649+/year6–12 months
Welder$53,202+/yearCertificate or on-the-job
Truck Driver (CDL)$100,160+/year4–8 weeks + CDL

Fast Fact: Construction employment in DFW increased by 2.8% year over year as of May 2025, reflecting steady demand driven by population growth and ongoing development. These roles continue to offer strong income potential with minimal upfront training costs.

5. Jobs That Pay $20 an Hour in Dallas

One of the most common job search queries is: “What jobs pay $20/hour in Dallas?”

Here are a few examples, spanning industries:

Job TitleTypical Pay RangeTraining Needed
Dental Assistant$20–$21/hourDental Assisting Program
Customer Service Rep$20–$21/hourSoft skills + software
Pharmacy Tech$18–$20/hourCertification (CPhT)
HVAC Apprentice$20-$23/hourEnrolled in trade school
Office Clerk / Admin Asst$19–$21/hourMicrosoft Office skills

6. Jobs That Pay $100,000 or More in Dallas

For job seekers aiming high, these are roles commonly earning six figures or more in the DFW market:

Job TitleMedian Annual SalaryTypical Requirement
Software Engineer$107,524+/yearDegree or bootcamp
Information Security Manager$127,623+/yearCISSP / Experience
Nurse Practitioner$120,676+/yearMaster’s + Certification
Financial Manager$121,174+/yearDegree + experience
Operations Manager$80,128+/yearVaries by industry

Remember: These salaries often require years of experience or advanced training—but many career paths in Dallas can reach this level over time.

Salary Benchmarks: What’s Considered a “Good Salary” in DFW?

When it comes to living comfortably in Dallas–Fort Worth, salary expectations can vary depending on lifestyle, family size, and career goals. Here’s a general guide:

  • Starting out? A salary between $35,000 and $50,000 is common for entry-level roles in healthcare, office support, and trades.
  • Living comfortably on your own? Earning around $60,000 to $80,000 gives you room to cover rent, bills, and save a little—without stretching too thin.
  • Supporting a household or planning long-term? Salaries between $90,000 and $120,000 offer more flexibility and are typical for experienced professionals or dual-income families.
  • Aiming higher? Six-figure roles are common in tech, healthcare, and management—but often require specialized skills or leadership experience.

Dallas remains more affordable than many major cities, so your paycheck tends to go further here—especially if you avoid luxury neighborhoods.

Tips to Enter the DFW Job Market in 2025

  • Specialize in one domain – Whether it’s cybersecurity, medical billing, or QuickBooks, niche skills win in competitive markets.
  • Get certified – Many high-demand jobs value certifications more than degrees. See certification programs at CCI.
  • Leverage local job boards – Try WorkInTexas.com, DFWJobs.com, and LinkedIn filters for Dallas region roles.
  • Network locally – Attend career fairs, industry meetups, and alumni groups in DFW.
  • Upskill continuously – Even a 6-week Excel course or CompTIA certification can significantly raise your starting pay.

Final Thoughts

The Dallas–Fort Worth job market is one of the most vibrant and diverse in the nation, offering career opportunities across all education levels and industries. From entry-level medical assistants to high-earning software developers, the paths to success are numerous—and often shorter than people think.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to switch careers in 2025, DFW’s booming economy is full of openings that match your goals, lifestyle, and income needs.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Dallas–Fort Worth offers a job market that’s rich with opportunity, upward mobility, and career diversity—but success starts with the right skills.

If you’re looking to enter the workforce fast, pivot careers, or upskill for better pay, now is the time to act. Explore credible short-term training paths, certification programs, or skill-specific workshops aligned with your goals.

Check out:

The job you want in 2025 is within reach—take the first step with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions FAQ's

What are the best jobs in Dallas–Fort Worth right now?

The best jobs in DFW for 2025 combine high demand, strong salaries, and growth potential. Top examples include:

  • Registered Nurse (RN) – $98,000 median salary
  • Software Developer – $107,524+
  • Cybersecurity Analyst – $$108,812
  • Administrative Assistant – $41,950
  • HVAC Technician – $49,649

A “good” salary in Dallas varies by lifestyle, but the average individual salary is around $60,000–$70,000/year. Salaries above $80,000 are considered very comfortable, especially given Dallas’s moderate cost of living.

Not necessarily. Many high-paying jobs in DFW only require certifications or vocational training, including roles in healthcare, IT, skilled trades, and business support. For example, medical assistants, cybersecurity technicians, and HVAC specialists can all earn $50,000+ with short-term training.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Dallas Fed:

  • Healthcare and Social Assistance
  • Construction and Skilled Trades
  • Finance and Insurance
  • Information Technology
  • Education Services

Several entry-to-mid-level roles pay $20/hour or more in DFW, such as:

  • Pharmacy Technicians
  • Dental Assistants
  • HVAC Apprentices
  • Office Clerks
  • Customer Service Supervisors

Many roles can be accessed with certifications that take a few months instead of years. Common certifications include:

  • CompTIA A+ / Security+ (IT)
  • Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
  • Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)
  • QuickBooks / Excel MOS Certification

You can explore training program options here.

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