I presently work in Alabama, but have spent a LOT of time at MD Anderson in Houston. While there, I attended a nurse recruitment luncheon and spoke with human resource people. I couldn't believe the benefits the University of Texas has!! I don't know about starting salary because I have been a nurse for so long, I generally top out anyway. But they said if you worked for them for just 10 years, you would get full benefits, including major medical insurance from them, after you retire or leave. I was very impressed with their benefit package, compared to what Alabama has to offer. We are always behind in everything, anyway!