How much does a Landman make in Texas? Everything we know so far

Still from Landman season 1 ( via Paramount+) — Still from Landman season 1 (Image via Paramount+)

A Landman, an expert in securing land rights and overseeing oil and gas leases, plays an essential role in Texas' energy industry. Their efforts facilitate arrangements between landowners and energy firms, opening the path for oil and gas exploration.

In Texas, a state where the energy sector flourishes, Landmen's pay mirrors their skills and the expectations of their positions. Landmen earn anywhere between $90,000 and $160,872 annually, depending on their experience and the projects they manage.

The Paramount+ series Landman explores the experiences of these professionals, dramatizing their everyday challenges and dealings. While the show sheds light on the complexities of the job, it also raises curiosity about how much Landmen earn in real life. Below is an analysis of salary data, comparing the portrayal of this role in the series with real-world statistics.

What does Landman portray about the job?

Still from the series (Image via Paramount+)

Landman, featuring Billy Bob Thornton, is a drama focused on the lives of individuals involved in the Texas oil and gas industry. The series depicts the intense nature of land transactions and the personal and professional tensions that emerge in this cutthroat industry. It offers a dramatized yet engaging perspective on a frequently ignored profession.

Although the series highlights the stresses and difficulties of the career, it also hints at the monetary benefits tied to it. These factors have generated curiosity about the real earnings of Landmen, especially in Texas, where the series takes place.

Overview of Landman salaries in Texas

Landmen salaries in Texas (Image via talent.com)

Accounts present a broad spectrum of income for Landmen in Texas. According to talent.com, the average annual salary for Landmen in Texas is $130,000. Beginner professionals earn around $90,000, whereas seasoned Landmen may make as much as $160,872 each year.

Salary.com indicates that a Landman I has an average annual salary of $101,177 in Texas, with majority earnings ranging from $90,034 to $109,921. This corresponds with information from Indeed.com, which estimates the average annual salary for Landmen in Texas at $112,030, derived from recent data from 26 reported salaries.

Factors influencing salaries

Several factors affect Landmen's salary in Texas. Experience is a primary determinant, with senior Landmen often negotiating complex agreements that justify higher pay. Geographic location also matters as oil-rich regions may offer better compensation. Additionally, the size and scope of the employer or project can significantly influence earnings.

How much does Tommy Norris make in the show?

In the Paramount+ series Landman, Billy Bob Thornton plays Tommy Norris, a crisis executive at M-Tex Oil. The show doesn't provide an exact figure for Tommy's salary but offers some clues.

In one episode, Tommy mentions that oil rig workers can earn approximately $180,000 annually—significantly higher than typical industry averages. Given his senior role, it's reasonable to assume Tommy's earnings surpass those of the workers he manages.

However, the series also highlights that Tommy is struggling financially, with a debt of $500,000. This suggests that despite a potentially substantial income, his financial decisions or personal circumstances have left him in a precarious situation.

While Landman adds these narrative elements for dramatic effect, it's worth noting that the financial realities of Landmen in Texas can vary widely.

How realistic is Landman?

While the show captures the essence of the profession, industry experts have noted that some dramatization is inevitable for storytelling purposes. According to Collider, in an article published on November 27, 2024, the show highlights the ethical dilemmas and competitive environment Landmen face. However, it doesn't delve into the more technical or mundane aspects of the job.

The financial rewards depicted, however, align with the real-world data. Real-life landmen earn between $100,000 and $194,584 annually, depending on their experience and responsibilities. As a fictional character, Tommy's financial circumstances reflect storytelling needs rather than an accurate depiction of Landmen's earnings.

The series Landman has brought attention to a niche profession often overshadowed by more public-facing roles in the energy industry. While the drama may embellish certain aspects, the salaries depicted for Texas Landmen largely reflect real-world figures.

As the show continues to spotlight this role, it invites audiences to explore the complexities and rewards of a challenging and financially rewarding career.

Edited by Ivanna Lalsangzuali