How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Corpus Christi, TX: Requirements & Certification for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

Texas is facing a shortage of mental health professionals. Only 32.5% of the demand for these professionals are met as of September 2022 (Bureau of Health Workforce, 2022). This is an opportunity for Corpus Christi residents aiming to make a difference in the community while earning decent wages.

In May 2024, substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Texas had a median hourly wage of $29.15, which is slightly higher than the $28.46 national median hourly wage in the same period [US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2025]. The figure is also higher than the $20.32 living wage for single, childless adult residents of Corpus Christi, Texas, in 2025 (Glasmeier & Massachusetts Institute of Technology).

To help aspiring professionals get started in the field of addiction counseling, I created this in-depth guide to academic requirements, licensure requirements, salary potential, career outlook, and available jobs.

Key Points About Becoming a Substance Abuse Counselor in Corpus Christi, TX

• The demand for substance abuse counselors in Corpus Christi is rising due to increasing awareness and treatment programs, offering promising job stability in this essential healthcare sector.
• In May 2024, substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in the state of Texas had a median annual wage of $60,630, which is slightly higher than the $59,190 national median annual wage in the same year (US BLS, 2025).
• Corpus Christi’s diverse population and expanding healthcare infrastructure provide a unique environment to practice culturally competent counseling and address complex community needs.

Table of Contents

1. What are the academic requirements to become a substance abuse counselor in Corpus Christi, TX?
2. What are the licensing requirements for substance abuse counselors in Corpus Christi, TX?
3. Can Corpus Christi, TX substance abuse counselors practice in other states?
4. Are there internship opportunities for substance abuse counselors in Corpus Christi, TX?
5. How much do substance abuse counselors in Corpus Christi, TX earn?
6. Are substance abuse counselors in demand in Corpus Christi, TX?
7. How can I advance to a licensed professional counselor role in Corpus Christi, TX?
8. What additional education opportunities can further enhance my counseling skills in Corpus Christi, TX?
9. How Can Interdisciplinary Collaboration Improve Treatment Outcomes?
10. How Can Certification Programs Expand Career Opportunities for Substance Abuse Counselors in Corpus Christi, TX?
11. Where do substance abuse counselors work in Corpus Christi, TX?
12. What other careers can substance abuse counselors pursue in Corpus Christi, TX?
13. Is Corpus Christi, TX a good place to work as a substance abuse counselor?
14. What challenges do substance abuse counselors face in Corpus Christi, TX?
15. Other Things You Should Know About Pursuing Substance Abuse Counseling in Corpus Christi, TX

What are the academic requirements to become a substance abuse counselor in Corpus Christi, TX?

Becoming a substance abuse counselor in Corpus Christi, TX, is a pursuit that demands more than passion; it requires a commitment to rigorous academic preparation. While many may assume that a bachelor’s degree alone suffices, the realities of substance abuse treatment challenge this notion, calling for deeper educational qualifications and practical experience. For those exploring the educational requirements for substance abuse counselors in Corpus Christi, understanding these layers is essential.

Most aspiring counselors begin with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related human services field. This foundational education introduces essential behavioral theories, addiction studies, and ethical considerations. However, the question remains whether this undergraduate level of training alone provides the necessary tools to navigate the complex challenges faced in the field.

In fact, many employers and licensing boards in Texas prefer or require a master’s degree focused specifically on counseling or substance abuse. These graduate programs often include supervised practicum or internship hours, immersing students in clinical environments where theoretical knowledge is tested and refined. This hands-on experience is critical for licensure and effective practice in Corpus Christi.

Those who pursue advanced degrees may also encounter capstone projects or theses, which emphasize research and the development of innovative intervention methods. This requirement shifts the focus beyond practical skills to include evidence-based strategies and ongoing professional growth.

Key educational requirements for a substance abuse counselor degree Corpus Christi TX include:

• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field: establishing foundational knowledge in human behavior and ethics
• Master’s degree with a focus on substance abuse counseling: often preferred or required to meet state licensure standards
• Completion of supervised practicum/internship hours: gaining real-world clinical experience essential for effective treatment
• Capstone project or thesis: demonstrating research skills and applied knowledge for innovative practices

For those considering this path, it is worth exploring the broader landscape of fast growing psychology careers, which highlights the evolving demands and opportunities within counseling professions. In Corpus Christi, integrating these academic milestones with state licensure ensures a comprehensive preparation that challenges conventional wisdom and equips counselors to meet the nuanced needs of those struggling with substance abuse.

What are the licensing requirements for substance abuse counselors in Corpus Christi, TX?

Becoming a licensed substance abuse counselor in Corpus Christi, TX involves more than completing coursework; it requires a commitment to ethical standards and practical experience that many overlook when considering how to get a counseling license in Corpus Christi TX. The process is tightly regulated by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), emphasizing both integrity and competence in the field.

Conventional thinking might suggest academic achievement alone is sufficient, but the reality is far more complex. Practical, supervised experience and continuous professional development are equally critical to ensure counselors can effectively support clients facing addiction.

• Submit application and fingerprinting for background check: Applicants must provide a detailed application and undergo a criminal background check to uphold public safety and ethical standards.
• Complete supervised work experience (approx. 2,000 hours): Candidates are required to accumulate hands-on experience under a qualified supervisor, reinforcing the necessity of real-world practice alongside academic learning.
• Pass the Texas Chemical Dependency Counselor Exam: This exam rigorously tests knowledge in counseling strategies, ethics, and Texas-specific laws, serving as a gatekeeper for professional readiness.
• Renew license biennially with continuing education: Licensees must renew their credentials every two years, submitting continuing education credits that keep them updated on evolving clinical practices and ethical guidelines.

For those exploring educational pathways, reviewing a list of the best online counseling degree programs can provide valuable guidance on foundational training options that align with licensure requirements.

Can Corpus Christi, TX substance abuse counselors practice in other states?

Can Corpus Christi, TX substance abuse counselors practice in other states? The straightforward answer is no, at least not without navigating a complex and varied process. Unlike professions with broad interstate reciprocity, counseling licenses, including those for substance abuse, rarely offer automatic recognition beyond the issuing state’s borders. This situation exposes a critical truth: a license from Texas does not guarantee professional mobility nationwide.

The pathway to practicing outside Texas typically involves understanding and meeting the distinct requirements set by the destination state. Counselors must often provide detailed proof of their education, supervised clinical hours, and exam results to establish eligibility. In some cases, additional coursework or supervised experience is mandatory if the new jurisdiction’s standards are more rigorous than Texas’s.

Passing state-specific or national exams may also be necessary, along with applying for licensure through endorsement or reciprocity when available. This fragmented system prompts deeper consideration of how state lines influence not only professional identities but also access to essential counseling services. It challenges the notion that certification alone is sufficient for seamless interstate practice, urging a reevaluation of how counselor qualifications are standardized and recognized across the United States.

The chart below provides a visualization of the states with the highest employment levels of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in the US, based on 2024 data from the US BLS.

Are there internship opportunities for substance abuse counselors in Corpus Christi, TX?

Internships are a crucial stepping stone for those pursuing a career in substance abuse counseling, offering hands-on experience that cannot be replicated in the classroom. They provide essential opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, preparing candidates for certification and licensure requirements. In Corpus Christi, TX, several internships stand out for their diverse approaches and practical training benefits.

• Coastal Bend Wellness Center: 6-month internship providing strong clinical exposure with direct client interaction and multidisciplinary treatment approaches.
• Nueces County Behavioral Health Services: 12-week program focusing on community outreach and case management, ideal for working professionals or recent graduates seeking concentrated learning.
• Christus Spohn Health System: Offers internships up to one year, emphasizing evidence-based practices and interdisciplinary collaboration within a respected healthcare network.

These Corpus Christi TX substance abuse counselor internship opportunities challenge the simplistic idea that longer internships are inherently superior. Instead, they demonstrate how varied experiences across different settings cultivate a deeper, more nuanced understanding of addiction counseling. For those eager to advance their careers, understanding how to obtain counseling licensure by state is an equally important step to complement these practical experiences.

How much do substance abuse counselors in Corpus Christi, TX earn?

Substance abuse counselors in Corpus Christi, TX, earn an average annual salary of approximately $43,000, a figure that aligns closely with state-level averages but remains modest when compared to other counseling specialties. This average masks considerable variation influenced by factors such as experience, education, and the specific work environment. Entry-level counselors typically start near $30,000, reflecting the difficult nature of entering this emotionally demanding profession. On the other hand, experienced professionals with advanced certifications and supervisory roles can earn salaries exceeding $55,000. These figures provide insight into the average earnings for addiction counselors in Corpus Christi, highlighting both challenges and opportunities within the field.

When juxtaposed with related roles like mental health counselors or social workers in Corpus Christi, substance abuse counselors tend to earn slightly less despite the specialized skills required to treat addiction effectively. This pay disparity prompts important questions about how society values addiction treatment and whether compensation adequately reflects the complexity and societal impact of this work. For those considering entering this field, exploring the most affordable bachelors degree in substance abuse counseling online may provide a practical pathway to gain necessary qualifications while managing educational costs.

• Average annual salary: ~$43,000
• Entry-level salary: ~$30,000
• Experienced counselor salary: $50,000–$55,000+
• Comparison: Slightly lower than mental health counselors in the region

Are substance abuse counselors in demand in Corpus Christi, TX?

Opportunities for substance abuse counselors in Corpus Christi, TX, are expanding significantly, defying the common belief that counseling careers are oversaturated. The field is expected to grow by about 12% in the coming decade, a rate that surpasses many other professions. Presently, the region offers hundreds of open roles, highlighting a persistent demand for skilled counselors. This growth is fueled by heightened recognition of mental health challenges, an increase in substance use disorders, and broader availability of treatment programs. These factors not only create jobs but also shift the societal perception of counseling, emphasizing its critical role in community health and recovery.

• Approximately 12% projected job increase over ten years
• Hundreds of current vacancies
• Greater societal and institutional emphasis on mental wellness
• More comprehensive rehabilitation and support options locally

How can I advance to a licensed professional counselor role in Corpus Christi, TX?

Advancing beyond initial licensure involves targeted education, dedicated supervision, and a commitment to ongoing professional development. Substance abuse counselors in Corpus Christi, TX, seeking to transition into Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) roles must meet enhanced academic criteria, accrue additional supervised clinical hours, and complete advanced competency evaluations. Local training programs and mentorship opportunities can provide the specialized clinical techniques, ethical frameworks, and evidence-based approaches necessary for this progression. For a detailed roadmap, review how to become an LPC in Corpus Christi. Engaging in continuing education and professional networking further equips practitioners to assume leadership roles in diverse clinical settings.

What additional education opportunities can further enhance my counseling skills in Corpus Christi, TX?

Specialized training programs and interdisciplinary education can complement the foundational academic and licensure requirements for substance abuse counselors in Corpus Christi, TX. Pursuing targeted certifications and workshops—such as trauma-informed care, crisis intervention strategies, and holistic wellness approaches—can provide advanced clinical techniques that improve treatment outcomes. Counselors may also explore supplementary coursework and local seminars focusing on the integration of behavioral therapies with emerging best practices. For those interested in diversifying their expertise across related fields, reviewing marriage and family therapist education requirements in Corpus Christi may offer valuable insights while expanding their proficiency in addressing complex family dynamics.

How Can Interdisciplinary Collaboration Improve Treatment Outcomes?

In an evolving healthcare landscape, combining expertise across disciplines is essential for comprehensive treatment. Substance abuse counselors can benefit from close collaboration with healthcare professionals, such as nurse practitioners, mental health specialists, and social workers, to integrate diverse perspectives into patient care. Coordinated efforts ensure that clinical interventions are supported by complementary insights, resulting in more effective and sustainable recovery strategies. Counselors who proactively seek interdisciplinary partnerships enhance not only individual treatment outcomes but also overall community health. For those interested in expanding their role within a multi-faceted care team, learning how to become a nurse practitioner in Corpus Christi offers a valuable perspective on further integrating healthcare practices.

How Can Certification Programs Expand Career Opportunities for Substance Abuse Counselors in Corpus Christi, TX?

Certification programs offer a strategic pathway to diversify skill sets and heighten professional credibility without duplicating academic prerequisites. Pursuing targeted certifications—particularly those emphasizing behavioral analysis—equips counselors with advanced techniques that can lead to specialized roles and diversified service offerings. Such credentials often serve as a differentiator in a competitive landscape by validating expertise and adherence to stringent industry standards. For instance, exploring options like learning how to become a BCBA in Corpus Christi can open doors to interdisciplinary practice and evidence-based interventions, further strengthening the counselor’s impact on community wellness.

Where do substance abuse counselors work in Corpus Christi, TX?

Substance abuse counselors in Corpus Christi, TX encounter a variety of career paths across multiple professional environments. These roles highlight the complexity of addiction treatment and the importance of addressing both medical and social factors. The following list identifies key organizations employing counselors who push beyond traditional views of addiction and recovery.

• Corpus Christi Medical Center: Professionals here perform comprehensive evaluations and create tailored treatment strategies, working closely with healthcare providers to manage co-existing mental health conditions, thereby redefining addiction as more than just a behavioral challenge.
• Coastal Bend Recovery Center: This facility concentrates solely on addiction rehabilitation, where counselors lead therapeutic groups, guide relapse prevention programs, and support holistic healing, emphasizing recovery as an educational and advocacy-driven process.
• Nueces County Community Supervision and Correction Department: Counselors in this setting address the intersection of addiction and the justice system, providing therapy and case management aimed at lowering repeat offenses and promoting reintegration, challenging the traditional punitive mindset.

What other careers can substance abuse counselors pursue in Corpus Christi, TX?

Substance abuse counselors in Corpus Christi, TX, often find that their skills open doors to a variety of alternative career paths beyond traditional counseling roles. Exploring these options can challenge the notion that career growth is limited within one narrow field. Considering alternative counseling jobs Corpus Christi TX reveals opportunities that demand empathy, insight, and a willingness to impact lives in diverse ways.

• Mental health counselor: This role broadens the scope beyond addiction to address wider psychological issues, frequently in hospitals or community health centers, with an average salary near $48,000 annually. It invites counselors to deepen their understanding of complex mental health challenges.
• Social worker: Engaging with vulnerable populations in schools or social service agencies, social workers navigate intricate social systems to support families and communities. This career typically offers around $45,000 per year in Corpus Christi and pushes counselors to expand their impact beyond individual clients.
• Care coordinator: Often found in rehabilitation centers, care coordinators manage patient treatment plans and facilitate communication among healthcare providers, earning roughly $50,000 annually. This path emphasizes administrative skills and collaborative teamwork.
• Health educator: Focused on prevention rather than treatment, these professionals design programs in schools or nonprofit organizations to reduce substance abuse risks. Averaging $42,000 per year, this role demands creativity in public health communication and outreach efforts.
• Correctional treatment specialist: Working within the local criminal justice system, these specialists support rehabilitation for incarcerated individuals, earning about $46,000 annually. They confront the challenging intersection of addiction, law enforcement, and social reintegration.

Those interested in these paths can explore further by reviewing jobs with counseling degree options relevant to their skills and goals, especially within the realm of substance abuse counseling careers in Corpus Christi TX.

The chart below provides a visualization of the projected employment growth of behavioral health professions from 2023 and 2033, according to data from O*NET OnLine.

Is Corpus Christi, TX a good place to work as a substance abuse counselor?

Considering a career as a substance abuse counselor in Corpus Christi, TX requires looking beyond surface-level assumptions. The city’s economic and social environment shapes the realities of this profession in ways that may surprise those expecting straightforward job prospects or satisfaction.

• Economic Context: Corpus Christi’s moderate living costs are appealing, yet its heavy dependence on sectors like oil and tourism indirectly impacts the availability of funding for mental health programs.
• Persistent Demand: The ongoing challenges with opioid and alcohol misuse ensure a continuous need for qualified counselors, potentially providing stable job opportunities despite economic fluctuations.
• Community Perception: Local attitudes toward addiction and mental health influence both client willingness to seek help and the level of community support, sometimes restricting the effectiveness of counseling efforts.
• Resource Variability: Fluctuating public and private funding affects case loads and the quality of care, requiring counselors to be adaptable amid changing resource availability.

Beyond these factors, the city’s mental health services are gradually integrating behavioral health into broader healthcare systems, presenting both collaborative opportunities and systemic funding challenges. Success in this field within Corpus Christi may depend on a counselor’s flexibility and advocacy skills.

When I spoke with a substance abuse counselor based in Corpus Christi, he described his experience as a “balancing act” between dedication and the realities of local constraints. “Every day brings a new set of hurdles,” he shared, “from managing limited resources to addressing deep-rooted community stigma.” Yet, he finds fulfillment in witnessing small victories: “When a client takes that first step toward recovery, it reminds me why I stay despite the obstacles.” This counselor emphasized the importance of resilience and creativity, noting that “working here isn’t just a job; it’s a commitment to being part of a larger healing process in a community that’s still finding its way.”

What challenges do substance abuse counselors face in Corpus Christi, TX?

Working as a substance abuse counselor in Corpus Christi, TX, involves confronting multifaceted challenges shaped by the city’s distinctive social and economic environment. Counselors must go beyond traditional therapeutic roles to address deeper systemic issues affecting their clients.

The region’s widespread poverty and limited healthcare accessibility intensify addiction struggles, requiring counselors to be not only clinicians but also advocates and problem solvers. Additionally, Corpus Christi’s rich cultural mosaic demands counselors cultivate a nuanced understanding of diverse beliefs and values, which profoundly impact treatment acceptance and outcomes.

• Overwhelming caseloads: Rising demand for substance abuse treatment leads to heavy workloads, increasing the risk of professional burnout and potentially compromising care quality.
• Community stigma: Persistent negative perceptions about addiction in various local populations hinder client engagement and sustained participation in recovery programs.
• Funding and regulatory hurdles: Limited financial resources and stringent regulations restrict the availability of essential services and supports for both counselors and clients.
• Dual diagnosis complexities: The prevalence of co-occurring mental health disorders among clients necessitates integrated, sophisticated treatment approaches that many programs struggle to provide.

In this environment, success depends on counselors’ ability to adapt continuously, engage with community networks, and challenge simplistic models of addiction treatment to foster meaningful recovery pathways.

What Substance Abuse Counselors in Corpus Christi, TX Say About Their Careers

• “Working as a substance abuse counselor in Corpus Christi offers incredible job stability, thanks to the growing demand for addiction support services in the area. The average salaries here are competitive, which makes it easier to focus fully on helping clients without worrying about financial stress. I find great pride in being part of a community that truly values recovery.” —Jennifer
• “The unique challenges in Corpus Christi, such as addressing addiction in coastal and rural populations, have made my counseling experience deeply rewarding. It pushes me to develop creative strategies tailored to diverse client needs, fostering real change. This career has taught me resilience and compassion in ways I never expected.”—Abigail
• “Corpus Christi offers excellent professional development programs for substance abuse counselors, including workshops and certifications that have significantly enhanced my skills. The local network of professionals here encourages continual learning and collaboration, which keeps me motivated and confident in my practice. It’s a fulfilling path for those committed to growth.”—Grant

Other Things You Should Know About Pursuing Substance Abuse Counseling in Corpus Christi, TX

Which industries in Corpus Christi, TX pay substance abuse counselors the most?

When considering a career as a substance abuse counselor in Corpus Christi, TX, one might assume all industries offer similar compensation. However, the reality challenges this notion. Different sectors value the role distinctly, influencing earning potential and career trajectory.

Reflecting on the local landscape, some industries clearly stand out in their financial recognition of substance abuse counselors. This variance compels aspiring counselors to strategically target sectors that not only align with their passion but also provide sustainable income.

• Healthcare and Social Assistance – Average annual salary of approximately $52,000
• Government and Public Administration – Offering around $55,000 per year
• Educational Services – Providing close to $48,000 annually

Which schools in Corpus Christi, TX offer degree programs for aspiring rehab counselors?

Choosing the right program to become a substance abuse counselor in Corpus Christi, TX requires scrutinizing not just location but curriculum depth and affordability. While local options are limited, several institutions provide comprehensive training focused on addiction theories, counseling techniques, and ethics—essential for tackling the region's substance abuse challenges.

• Del Mar College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Chemical Dependency Counseling, covering courses in addiction counseling, pharmacology, and case management, with tuition around $3,500 per semester.
• Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi provides a Bachelor’s in Psychology with a focus on addiction studies, including coursework in behavioral health and intervention strategies, costing approximately $7,000 per semester for in-state students.
• In nearby San Antonio, the University of Texas offers a Certified Addiction Counselor program emphasizing clinical practice and professional ethics, with tuition near $5,000 per semester.

Are there online certification programs for substance abuse counselors in Corpus Christi, TX?

Yes, there are online certification programs available for aspiring substance abuse counselors in Corpus Christi, TX, reflecting a shift toward flexible, accessible education in this vital field. Del Mar College, located locally, offers hybrid options combining online coursework with in-person practicum experiences, catering to working professionals. For fully online programs, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi provides distance learning opportunities that meet state certification requirements, challenging the traditional notion that counseling education must be entirely campus-based. These programs emphasize practical skills and ethical considerations essential for effective counseling within Texas’s regulatory framework, encouraging prospective counselors to critically evaluate how online learning can prepare them for real-world challenges.

Are there good substance abuse prevention and treatment programs in Corpus Christi, TX?

Corpus Christi, TX offers several reputable substance abuse prevention and treatment programs, demonstrating a committed local effort to address this critical issue. The city’s initiatives go beyond traditional rehabilitation, integrating community outreach and education to target the root causes of addiction. This multi-faceted approach challenges the notion that treatment alone is sufficient, emphasizing prevention as equally vital.

For example, the Corpus Christi Police Department collaborates with the Nueces County Health Department to provide outreach programs focused on early intervention and education. Additionally, local government supports partnerships with non-profits such as the Coastal Bend Wellness Foundation, which offers counseling services and relapse prevention strategies tailored to the regional population. These programs underscore a systemic acknowledgment that substance abuse counselors in Corpus Christi must be prepared to navigate both clinical and community-based environments.

References:

• Del Mar College. (n.d.). Human Services: Associate of Applied Science Degrees. https://delmar.edu/degrees/human-services/index.html
• HCA Healthcare Careers. (n.d.). Corpus Christi Medical Center Mental Health Technician. https://careers.hcahealthcare.com/jobs/15579153-mental-health-technican
• Healthgrades. (n.d.). Best Addiction & Substance Abuse Counselors in Corpus Christi, TX. https://www.healthgrades.com/find-a-doctor/texas/best-addiction-and-substance-abuse-counseling-in-corpus-christi
• KFF. (2024, December 31). Mental Health Care Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs). https://www.kff.org/other/state-indicator/mental-health-care-health-professional-shortage-areas-hpsas/?currentTimeframe=0&sortModel=%7B%22colId%22:%22Location%22,%22sort%22:%22asc%22%7D
• Naval Health Clinic Corpus Christi. (n.d.). Mental Health & Substance Abuse. https://corpuschristi.tricare.mil/Health-Services/Mental-Health-Substance-Abuse
• Psychology.org Staff Writers. Explore Counseling. Psychology.org. https://www.bestcounselingdegrees.net/texas-part-2
• Sober College. (n.d.). How to Become a Substance Use Counselor In Texas. https://sobercollege.com/substance-use-counselor/counseling-requirements-state/texas
• Texas A&M University Corpus Christi. (n.d.). Addictions Counseling Certificate. https://catalog.tamucc.edu/graduate/education-human-development/certificates/addictions-counseling-certificate
• Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. (n.d.). Professional Counseling, MS. https://www.tamucc.edu/programs/graduate-programs/professional-counseling-ms.php
• Texas Association of Addiction Professionals. (n.d.). Academic Resources. https://www.taap.org/page/801
• US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Area: Texas. Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics Query System. https://data.bls.gov/oes/#/area/4800000
• US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, April 18). Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/substance-abuse-behavioral-disorder-and-mental-health-counselors.htm
• Glasmeier, A. K. & Massachusetts Institute of Technology. (2025). Living Wage Calculation for Corpus Christi, TX. https://livingwage.mit.edu/metros/18580