The decisions you make when you are starting or furthering your nursing career can be heavily influenced by how much you can potentially earn. Figuring out how much you can make as a nurse is important for planning your education, as well as deciding in which state you will practice.
Searching for nursing job salaries by state can get tedious very quickly, so we at Nightingale College created a list with all the pay information about the average nurse salary per state, for you to access in one place.
In this article, you will find out the average nursing pay scale, how much you can make per month and per hour as a nurse, the salary differences between Licensed Practical Nurses, Registered Nurses, RNs with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and Registered Nurses with a Master’s of Science in Nursing.
While knowing your earning potential is incredibly important when choosing a career, it’s just as useful to know how your paycheck will hold up in terms of where you live. That’s why your nursing salary adjusted to the cost of living is a criteria you also need to consider. We want you to have all the facts, which is why we included in our guide the adjusted salaries, so that you realistically know how much money you will earn when you factor in the cost of living in your state.
The Average Nursing Salaries in the US
Salary is one of the biggest concerns most working professionals have prior to embarking on a specific job journey. It can also be the defining factor when determining if additional education or a career switch is the right decision. Let’s look at average nursing salaries across the U.S.
Below you will find an interactive map that shows you an overview of annual nursing salaries throughout the United States. We have included salaries for LPNs, Registered Nurses, BSN RNs, as well as the salaries for some of the most sought-after MSN nursing roles.
Use the drop-down menu to select the average salary for each of the nursing roles we mentioned. You can also select the option to view the nursing wages adjusted for the local cost of living.
Next, let us discuss different levels of nursing and their corresponding salary expectations. As a general rule, the more you advance your education, the higher your income potential will be. Here are some of the most common nursing levels and the national average salaries for each of them:
| Nursing Role | 2020 Hourly wage | 2020 Annual wage |
|---|---|---|
| Licensed Practical Nurses | $23.75 | $49,409 |
| Registered Nurses | $35.97 | $74,811 |
| Nurse Educator | N/A | $78,758 |
| Nurse Midwives | $52.11 | $108,395 |
| Nurse Practitioners | $53.92 | $112,159 |
| Nurse Anesthetists | $89.59 | $186,351 |
Nurses can make anywhere from close to $50,000 per year to six figures. Let’s see how each of these nursing jobs gets paid by state, at a local level.
RN SALARY BY STATE: How Much Does a Registered Nurse Make in the United States?
As of 2022, The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that between May 2020 and May 2021, RNs brought in a mean salary of $82,750 per year – a 3.1% increase compared to the previous year.
There are some projected employment figures that are favorable to highly trained nurses. Reports predict a rise of 9% in the employment of nurses, equaling an extra 276,800 job openings for Registered Nurses each year, on average, over the decade.
Read more about job outlook for Registered Nurses.
Highest and Lowest Paying States for RNs
The highest and best-paying state to work as a Registered Nurse in 2021 is California, with an average annual RN salary of $124,000, followed by Hawaii with $106,530 per year, Oregon with $98,630 per year, Alaska with $97,230 annually, and Massachussets with 96,630. Washington, New York, New Jersey, Nevada, and Connecticut also make the list of the highest paying states for RNs. In Washington, Registered Nurses make on average $95,330; in NY, they earn $93,320. In New Jersey the mean salary for RNs is $89,690. In Nevada and Connecticut nurses also bring home wages above the national average: $88,800 and $88,530 respectively.
In 2021, South Dakota was the lowest paying state for nurses, with an average RN salary of $60,540. Alabama and Mississippi are also on the lower paying side of the spectrum. Here, Registered Nurses have an average annual income of $61,920 and $63,130.
If you didn’t find your state among the highest nor the lowest-paying states in the nursing field, don’t worry. Below you can find detailed information about the Registered Nurse Salary in each state:
Alabama
The average RN salary in Alabama (AL) is $61,920 which is well below the national average. The monthly salary is $5,160, equaling an average of $29.77 hourly wage.
Alaska
The average Registered Nurse salary in Alaska (AK) is $97,230 which is well above the national average. The monthly salary is $8,102 or an average of $46.74 per hour.
Arizona
The average Registered Nurse salary in Arizona (AZ) is $81,600 which is only slightly below the national average. The monthly salary is $6,800 or an average of $39.23 hourly wage.
Arkansas
The average Registered Nurse salary in Arkansas (AR) is $65,810 which is below the national average. The monthly salary is $5,484 or an average of $31.64 per hour.
California
The average Registered Nurse salary in California (CA) is $124,000 which is well above the national average. The monthly salary is $10,333 or an average of $59.63 per hour.
Colorado
The average Registered Nurse salary in Colorado (CO) is $80,670 which is below the national average for RNs – $82,750. The monthly salary here is $6,723 and it breaks down as an average of $38.79 hourly wage.
Connecticut
The average Registered Nurse salary in Connecticut is $88,530 which is above the national average for Registered Nurses. The monthly salary is $7,377 and it breaks down as an average of $42.57 per hour.
Delaware
The average, or mean, Registered Nurse salary in Delaware is $77,760. The monthly salary is $6,480 and it breaks down as an average of $37.39 per hour.
District of Columbia
The average annual salary for RNs in District of Columbia (DC) is $98,540, which breaks down to a $8,211 monthly salary or $47.38 per hour.
For BSN-trained nurses, the salary is $101,650 per year or $48.87 per hour.
Florida
The average Registered Nurse salary in Florida (FL) is $72,000 which is below the national average for RNs. The monthly salary is $6,000 and it breaks down as an average of $34.62 per hour.
Georgia
The average Registered Nurse salary in Georgia (GA) is $75,380 which is below the national average for RN’s, $82,750. The monthly salary is $6,282 and it breaks down as an average of $36.25 per hour.
Hawaii
The average Registered Nurse salary in Hawaii (HI) is $106,530 which is well above the national average. The monthly salary is $8,878 and it breaks down as an average of $51.23 per hour.
Idaho
The average Registered Nurse salary in Idaho (ID) is $73,640 which is below the national average for RN’s. The monthly salary is $6,137 and it breaks down as an average of $35.41 per hour.
Illinois
The average Registered Nurse salary in Illinois (IL) is $78,260 which is below the national average figure for RNs, $82,750. The monthly salary is $6,522 and it breaks down as an average of $37.63 per hour.
Indiana
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Indiana (IN) is $68,890 which is almost $13,900 below the national average for RN’s viewed across all U.S. states, $82,750. The monthly salary is $5,741 and it breaks down as an average of $33.13 per hour.
Iowa
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Iowa (IA) is $64,990, which is below the national average. The monthly salary is $5,416 and it breaks down as an average of $31.25 per hour.
Kansas
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Kansas (KA) is $66,560, which is well below the national average for RNs viewed across all U.S. states, $82,750. The monthly salary is $5,547 and it breaks down as an average of $32.01 per hour.
Kentucky
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Kentucky (KY) is $67,260, which is below the national average for RN’s. The monthly salary is $5,605 and it breaks down as an average of $32.34 per hour.
Louisiana
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Louisiana (LA) is $70,380 which is below the national average for RNs viewed across all U.S. states, $82,750. The monthly salary is $5,865 and it breaks down as an average of $33.84 per hour.
Maine
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Maine (ME) is $73,630, which is below the national average for RN’s. The monthly salary is $6,136 and it breaks down as an average of $35.41 per hour.
Maryland
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Maryland (MA) is $82,660, which is only slightly below the national average for RN’s. The monthly salary is $6,888 and it breaks down as an average of $39.75 per hour.
Massachusetts
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Massachusetts (MA) is $96,630, which is above the national average for RNs. The monthly salary is $8,053 and it breaks down as an average of $46.47 per hour.
Michigan
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Michigan (MI) is $75,930, which is below the national average for RNs. The monthly salary is $6,328 and it breaks down as an average of $36.51 per hour.
Minnesota
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Minnesota (MN) is $84,030, which is slightly above the national average for RN’s viewed across all U.S. states, $82,750. The monthly salary is $7,003 and it breaks down as an average of $40.41 per hour.
Mississippi
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Mississippi (MS) is $63,130, which is more than $19,000 below the national average for RNss, $82,750. The monthly salary is $5,261 and it breaks down as an average of $30.36 per hour.
Missouri
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Missouri (MO) is $67,790, which is below the national average for RNss viewed across all U.S. states. The monthly salary is $5,649 and it breaks down as an average of $32.59 per hour.
Montana
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Montana (MT) is $73,610, which is below the national average for RNs viewed across all U.S. states, $82,750. The monthly salary is $6,134 and it breaks down as an average of $35.39 per hour.
Nebraska
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Nebraska (NE) is $69,850 which is below the national average for RNs viewed across all U.S. states. The monthly salary is $5,821 and it breaks down as an average of $33.59 per hour.
Nevada
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Nevada (NV) is $88,800, which is above the national average for RNs viewed across all U.S. states, $82,750. The monthly salary is $7,400 and it breaks down as an average of $42.70 per hour.
New Hampshire
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in New Hampshire (NH) is $78,270, which is below the national average for RN’s viewed across all U.S. states, $82,750. The monthly salary is $6,523 and it breaks down as an average of $37.63 per hour.
New Jersey
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in New Jersey (NJ) is $89,690, which is above the national average. The monthly salary is $7,474 and it breaks down as an average of $43.13 per hour.
New Mexico
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in New Mexico (NM) is $77,590, which is below the national average. The monthly salary is $6,466 and it breaks down as an average of $37.31 per hour.
New York
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in New York (NY) is $93,320, which is above the national average for RNs viewed across all U.S. states, $82,750. The monthly salary is $7,777 and it breaks down as an average of $44.87 per hour.
North Carolina
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in North Carolina (NC) is $71,200, which is below the national average for RN’s viewed across all U.S. states. The monthly salary is $5,933 and it breaks down as an average of $34.24 per hour.
North Dakota
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in North Dakota (ND) is $71,200, which is below the national average. The monthly salary is $5,933 and it breaks down as an average of $34.24 per hour.
Ohio
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Ohio (OH) is $71,640, which is below the national average for RN’s viewed across all U.S. states, $82,750. The monthly salary is $5,970 and it breaks down as an average of $34.45 per hour.
Oklahoma
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Oklahoma (OK) is $68,180, which is below the national average for RN’s viewed across all U.S. states. The monthly salary is $5,682 and it breaks down as an average of $32.79 per hour.
Oregon
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Oregon (OR) is $98,630, which is above the national average for RN’s viewed across all U.S. states – $82,750. The monthly salary is $8,219 and it breaks down as an average of $47.43 per hour.
Pennsylvania
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Pennsylvania (PA) is $76,000, which is below the national average for RN’s viewed across all U.S. states. The monthly salary is $6,333 and it breaks down as an average of $36.54 per hour.
Rhode Island
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Rhode Island is $85,270, which is above the national average for RN’s viewed across all U.S. states – $82,750. The monthly salary is $7,106 and it breaks down as an average of $41 per hour.
South Carolina
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in South Carolina (SC) is $69,580, which is below the national average for RNs viewed across all U.S. states. The monthly salary is $5,798 and it breaks down as an average of $33.46 per hour.
South Dakota
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in South Dakota (SD) is $60,540, which is below the national average for RNs viewed across all U.S. states. The monthly salary is $5,045 and it breaks down as an average of $29.11 per hour.
Tennessee
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Tennessee (TN) is $66,680, which is below the national average for RNss viewed across all U.S. states. The monthly salary is $5,557 and it breaks down as an average of $32.06 per hour.
Texas
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Texas (TX) is $79120, which is below the national average for RN’s viewed across all U.S. states – $82,750. The monthly salary is $6,593 and it breaks down as an average of $38.04 per hour.
Utah
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Utah (UT) is $72,790, which is well below the national average for RN’s viewed across all U.S. states – $82,750. The monthly salary is $6,066 and it breaks down as an average of $35 per hour.
Vermont
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Vermont (VT) is $75,160, which is below the national average for RN’s viewed across all U.S. states. The monthly salary is $6,263 and it breaks down as an average of $36.14 per hour.
Virginia
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Virginia (VA) is $76,680, which is below the national average for RN’s viewed across all U.S. states – $82,750. The monthly salary is $6,390 and it breaks down as an average of $36.87 per hour.
Washington
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Washington (WA) is $95,350, which is above the national average for RN’s viewed across all the U.S. The monthly salary is $7,946 and it breaks down as an average of $45.85 per hour.
West Virginia
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in West Virginia (WV) is $67,640, which is below the national average for RN’s viewed across all U.S. states. The monthly salary is $5,647 and it breaks down as an average of $32.53 per hour.
Wisconsin
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Wisconsin (WI) is $76,850, which is below the national average for RN’s viewed across all U.S. states. The monthly salary is $6,404 and it breaks down as an average of $36.95 per hour.
Wyoming
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Wyoming (WY) is $73,130, which is below the national average for RN’s viewed across all U.S. states, $82,750. The monthly salary is $6,094 and it breaks down as an average of $35.16 per hour.
BSN SALARY BY STATE: What Is the Average Salary of a BSN Prepared Nurse?
Although the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not provide specific information about the salaries of BSN-educated nurses, as the BSN Nursing portal points out, BSN-educated nurses are the top 25% earners in the field. Therefore, the data showing the 75th percentile salary range is a good indicator of the average annual salary of BSN nurses.
According to 2021 BLS 75th percentile wage estimates, the average salary of BSN nurses is $97,580. This breaks down to an average of $46.91 per hour. This puts the difference between RN salaries and BSN salaries at around $14,830. The more you learn, the more you earn.
In addition to enjoying higher salaries, BSN RNs also have tremendous job prospects. Over 80% of employers in the healthcare industry have a strong preference for hiring BSN trained nurses, while over 42% already require that their new hires have a BSN degree under their belt. BSN Nurses are typically associated with better patient outcomes and fewer medical mistakes, so the need for them will only increase over the decade.
Highest & Lowest Paying States for BSN RNs
BSN prepared nurses will earn the highest wages in California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Alaska, and Oregon. In California, Register Nurses who have a Bachelor’s Degree can expect to make up to $155,930. Hawaii is second in the list of top-paying states for BSN Nurses, with salaries of around $126,800. Next in line is Massachusetts, where BSN RNs earn $120,240. In Oregon, the earnings round up to $107,270, followed by Washington – $103,210.
Among the states where BSNs will earn the lowest salaries are South Dakota, Alabama, and Mississippi. In South Dakota, the income of a Nurse with a Bachelor’s Degree will be around $67,580. In Alabama, BSN RNs make $74,280 yearly, while in Mississippi the paycheck stands at an average of $75,220.
Registered Nurses and BSN Registered Nurses: Salaries Side by Side
The data was gathered from the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics and Numbeo, which is a platform we used to adjust salaries to the cost of living in each state. Below, you will find the average annual and hourly salaries for Registered Nurses and BSN Registered Nurses in all 50 states, as well as the salaries adjusted for the cost of living in each state in an easy-to-search table format:
| Abbr. | State | Avg RN Salary | Avg RN Salary (Adjusted) | Avg BSN Salary (75th %ile) | Avg BSN Salary (75th %ile) (Adjusted) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AL | Alabama | $60,230 | $67,827 | $68,960 | $77,658 |
| AK | Alaska | $95,270 | $75,432 | $110,890 | $87,799 |
| AZ | Arizona | $80,380 | $78,496 | $92,920 | $90,742 |
| AR | Arkansas | $63,640 | $71,425 | $73,630 | $82,637 |
| CA | California | $120,560 | $86,796 | $147,830 | $106,429 |
| CO | Colorado | $77,860 | $73,871 | $90,410 | $85,778 |
| CT | Connecticut | $84,850 | $69,379 | $99,040 | $80,981 |
| DE | Delaware | $74,330 | $68,824 | $84,070 | $77,843 |
| DC | District of Columbia | $90,050 | $57,540 | $105,180 | $67,208 |
| FL | Florida | $69,510 | $68,822 | $79,630 | $78,842 |
| GA | Georgia | $71,510 | $79,989 | $82,500 | $92,282 |
| HI | Hawaii | $104,830 | $54,204 | $124,880 | $64,571 |
| ID | Idaho | $71,640 | $75,570 | $81,450 | $85,918 |
| IL | Illinois | $74,560 | $78,155 | $86,280 | $90,440 |
| IN | Indiana | $67,490 | $74,165 | $77,470 | $85,132 |
| IA | Iowa | $62,570 | $68,683 | $69,960 | $76,795 |
| KS | Kansas | $64,200 | $73,708 | $74,220 | $85,212 |
| KY | Kentucky | $64,730 | $68,935 | $74,890 | $79,755 |
| LA | Louisiana | $68,010 | $72,816 | $78,020 | $83,533 |
| ME | Maine | $71,040 | $60,979 | $80,970 | $69,502 |
| MD | Maryland | $81,590 | $65,012 | $94,760 | $75,506 |
| MA | Massachusetts | $96,250 | $72,642 | $117,310 | $88,536 |
| MI | Michigan | $73,980 | $80,941 | $84,010 | $91,915 |
| MN | Minnesota | $80,960 | $80,000 | $95,310 | $94,180 |
| MS | Mississippi | $61,250 | $73,529 | $71,190 | $85,462 |
| MO | Missouri | $65,900 | $73,141 | $78,290 | $86,892 |
| MT | Montana | $70,530 | $70,319 | $80,510 | $80,269 |
| NE | Nebraska | $69,480 | $73,994 | $79,330 | $84,483 |
| NV | Nevada | $89,750 | $83,025 | $104,560 | $96,725 |
| NH | New Hampshire | $75,970 | $69,379 | $88,170 | $80,521 |
| NJ | New Jersey | $85,720 | $74,216 | $99,080 | $85,784 |
| NM | New Mexico | $75,700 | $83,370 | $85,070 | $93,689 |
| NY | New York | $89,760 | $61,522 | $106,330 | $72,879 |
| NC | North Carolina | $68,950 | $71,451 | $79,770 | $82,663 |
| ND | North Dakota | $69,630 | $71,342 | $79,200 | $81,148 |
| OH | Ohio | $69,750 | $75,815 | $79,230 | $86,120 |
| OK | Oklahoma | $66,600 | $75,169 | $77,060 | $86,975 |
| OR | Oregon | $96,230 | $72,957 | $110,220 | $83,563 |
| PA | Pennsylvania | $74,170 | $72,010 | $84,240 | $81,786 |
| RI | Rhode Island | $82,790 | $69,455 | $96,300 | $80,789 |
| SC | South Carolina | $67,140 | $69,647 | $77,630 | $80,529 |
| SD | South Dakota | $60,960 | $61,576 | $70,020 | $70,727 |
| TN | Tennessee | $64,120 | $71,563 | $74,330 | $82,958 |
| TX | Texas | $76,800 | $82,937 | $89,080 | $96,199 |
| UT | Utah | $70,370 | $71,369 | $79,470 | $80,598 |
| VT | Vermont | $72,140 | $61,764 | $83,410 | $71,413 |
| VA | Virginia | $74,380 | $73,425 | $86,750 | $85,637 |
| WA | Washington | $91,310 | $81,020 | $107,740 | $95,599 |
| WV | West Virginia | $65,130 | $70,108 | $76,210 | $82,034 |
| WI | Wisconsin | $74,760 | $77,072 | $84,280 | $86,887 |
| WY | Wyoming | $72,600 | $76,021 | $81,790 | $85,644 |
MSN SALARY BY STATE: What Is the Average Salary of an MSN Prepared Nurse?
The average salaries, as well as job outlook for MSN Nurses, vary greatly among specialties. Below, we will give a closer look at some of the most sought after MSN jobs.
Average Salary & Projected Growth
The national average salary for Nurse Educators is $82,040. Nursing Instructors are in particularly high demand. The nursing faculty shortage is one of the leading causes of the countrywide nursing shortage, making the job outlook for Nurse Educators all the more promising.
Nurse Practitioners are some of the highest-paid MSN Nurses. On average, NPs earn around $118,040 annually. Nurse Practitioners are easily the nursing specialty with the best career outlook. The NP employment rate is expected to grow by 52% by 2030, creating more than 114,900 jobs.
Nurse Midwives make an average yearly salary of $114,210. That breaks down to $54.91 per hour. They also have great job prospects. BLS projections indicate that the job outlook for midwifery will grow 11% throughout the decade.
Nurse Anesthetists are by far the best paid Advanced Practice Registered Nurses. On a national level, Nurse Anesthetists earn an average of $202,470 annually. Also, they have excellent job prospects. BLS estimates indicate that there will be around 5,600 job openings on average for Nurse Anesthetists every year, over the decade.
Highest & Lowest Paying States for MSN RNs
Nurse Educators have the highest annual mean wages in California, Hawaii, Connecticut, and Nevada. In California, Nursing Instructors make $99,000. Hawaii offers salaries of around $98,940, fairly close to Connecticut’s wages for Nurse Educators – $97,340. Among the states where Nurse Educators make the least money are Kansas – $60,030; Oklahoma – $60,410, and Georgia – $60,460.
Nurse Practitioners have the best chance of making the most money in California, Hawaii, New Jersey, Washington, and New York. The highest annual mean wage is offered by the Golden State – $149,910. In Hawaii, Nurse Practitioners make around $131,000, followed by New Jersey – $129,240. The lowest salaries for Nurse Practitioners will be encountered in Tennessee, Alabama, and Arkansas. On average, in Tennessee, NPs earn $99,630; in Alabama – $99,750 and in Arkansas, the mean wages are $99,910.
The best states to work as a Nurse Midwife in, from a financial standpoint, are West Virginia, California, Colorado, Massachusets, and New York. In West Virginia, Nurse Midwives earn on average $167,310 annually. California is second among the top paying states for NMs – $154,690. In Colorado, your earning potential in this role is also way above average – $128,690. On the other side of the coin, Kansas, Idaho, and Texas offer the lowest salaries for Nurse Midwives. In Kansas, you can expect to earn on average $44,240, in Idaho, $61,410 and in Georgia, $95,970.
The top-paying states for Nurse Anesthetists are South Carolina, Maine, Iowa, Pennsylvania, and Texas. In South Carolina, as a Nurse Anesthetist your earning potential is as high as $205,820 yearly. Maine is not too far behind. Here, NAs can make up to $202,080. In Iowa, the average salaries for Nurse Anesthetists are $201,660. Arkansas, Kansas, and Colorado are on the other end of the list, offering the lowest salaries for NAs. In Arkansas, the average salary is $154,580, while in Kansas and Colorado the wages for Nurse Anesthetists are slightly higher: $154,640 and $164,830 respectively.
Below, you can find the salaries for all these MSN jobs across the U.S.:
| Abbr. | State | Avg MSN - Nurse Educator Salary | Avg MSN - Nurse Midwife Salary | Avg MSN - Nurse Practitioner Salary | Avg MSN - Nurse Anesthetist Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AL | Alabama | $71,950 | $99,790 | $170,560 | |
| AK | Alaska | $86,970 | $93,080 | $110,270 | |
| AZ | Arizona | $73,210 | $121,530 | $117,480 | $173,460 |
| AR | Arkansas | $60,790 | $106,210 | $167,030 | |
| CA | California | $106,420 | $159,590 | $145,970 | $205,360 |
| CO | Colorado | $87,580 | $106,280 | $109,760 | $175,760 |
| CT | Connecticut | $96,620 | $104,200 | $116,780 | $217,360 |
| DE | Delaware | $96,090 | $112,230 | ||
| DC | District of Columbia | $111,940 | $85,740 | $116,150 | |
| FL | Florida | $116,650 | $67,530 | $101,060 | $176,760 |
| GA | Georgia | $72,090 | $92,840 | $106,220 | $179,630 |
| HI | Hawaii | $76,540 | $118,780 | $201,930 | |
| ID | Idaho | $81,050 | $72,150 | $113,890 | $156,250 |
| IL | Illinois | $74,870 | $109,310 | $112,060 | $194,950 |
| IN | Indiana | $91,310 | $112,510 | $109,940 | $169,620 |
| IA | Iowa | $77,170 | $102,830 | $107,910 | $198,480 |
| KS | Kansas | $69,550 | $104,530 | $167,700 | |
| KY | Kentucky | $70,320 | $102,460 | $163,700 | |
| LA | Louisiana | $71,050 | $111,880 | $161,310 | |
| ME | Maine | $70,350 | $119,030 | $111,580 | $198,940 |
| MD | Maryland | $94,080 | $107,670 | $115,240 | $182,780 |
| MA | Massachusetts | $106,950 | $113,910 | $126,050 | $195,900 |
| MI | Michigan | $83,020 | $103,870 | $109,150 | $199,870 |
| MN | Minnesota | $72,590 | $123,600 | $118,900 | $216,050 |
| MS | Mississippi | $72,840 | $127,960 | $109,550 | $174,540 |
| MO | Missouri | $68,420 | $113,320 | $106,870 | $189,610 |
| MT | Montana | $76,520 | $114,370 | $216,420 | |
| NE | Nebraska | $72,570 | $107,330 | $176,880 | |
| NV | Nevada | $82,560 | $119,890 | $223,680 | |
| NH | New Hampshire | $72,690 | $115,760 | $112,460 | $197,570 |
| NJ | New Jersey | $91,400 | $117,070 | $130,890 | $207,500 |
| NM | New Mexico | $75,790 | $105,980 | $117,050 | $164,980 |
| NY | New York | $98,850 | $125,780 | $126,440 | $217,050 |
| NC | North Carolina | $73,320 | $102,020 | $108,370 | $192,830 |
| ND | North Dakota | $74,280 | $111,070 | $192,050 | |
| OH | Ohio | $73,220 | $105,960 | $105,630 | $190,120 |
| OK | Oklahoma | $63,690 | $112,750 | $179,410 | |
| OR | Oregon | $80,610 | $105,600 | $118,600 | $236,540 |
| PA | Pennsylvania | $78,360 | $103,230 | $111,560 | $185,090 |
| RI | Rhode Island | $87,700 | $107,510 | $117,300 | |
| SC | South Carolina | $77,650 | $101,190 | $185,850 | |
| SD | South Dakota | $69,880 | $103,080 | $190,660 | |
| TN | Tennessee | $73,750 | $93,690 | $99,370 | $171,020 |
| TX | Texas | $65,970 | $109,510 | $116,700 | $180,380 |
| UT | Utah | $81,640 | $133,680 | $113,550 | $127,130 |
| VT | Vermont | $71,370 | $97,240 | $108,280 | $189,780 |
| VA | Virginia | $73,060 | $109,660 | $179,180 | |
| WA | Washington | $86,850 | $112,310 | $126,480 | $197,740 |
| WV | West Virginia | $61,140 | $123,450 | $105,220 | $187,430 |
| WI | Wisconsin | $83,520 | $110,380 | $113,030 | $231,520 |
| WY | Wyoming | $67,620 | $118,810 | $231,250 |
LPN SALARY BY STATE: What Is the Average Salary of a Licensed Practical Nurse?
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for Licenced Practical Nurses (called in some states Licensed Vocational Nurses) is $51,850. Employment of LPNs is also expected to grow steadily throughout the decade. BLS projections indicate a 9% growth from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Learn more about LPN salaries in the United States.
Highest & Lowest Paying States for LPNs
The states with the highest salaries for Licensed practical nurses are Alaska ($61,680), California ($61,600), and Washington ($61,160). LPNs also earn above the national average salaries in Oregon and Rhode Island. In Oregon, LPN wages are around $60,240, and in Nevada, Licensed Practical Nurses earn a similar salary. On the other side of the spectrum are West Virginia ($37,790), South Dakota ($38,480), and Mississippi ($38,610).
In the table below you can explore the hourly and annual wages for Licensed Practical Nurses across the country. You will also find the salaries adjusted to the cost of living in each of the states:
| Abbr. | State | Avg Hourly Wage | Avg LPN Salary | Avg LPN Salary (Adjusted) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AL | Alabama | $19.56 | $40,680 | $45,811 |
| AK | Alaska | $32.51 | $67,620 | $53,539 |
| AZ | Arizona | $26.84 | $55,820 | $54,512 |
| AR | Arkansas | $20.08 | $41,760 | $46,869 |
| CA | California | $30.81 | $64,090 | $46,141 |
| CO | Colorado | $26.11 | $54,310 | $51,528 |
| CT | Connecticut | $28.09 | $58,430 | $47,776 |
| DE | Delaware | $25.92 | $53,920 | $49,926 |
| DC | District of Columbia | $27.80 | $57,810 | $36,939 |
| FL | Florida | $22.46 | $46,710 | $46,248 |
| GA | Georgia | $21.48 | $44,690 | $49,989 |
| HI | Hawaii | $26.04 | $54,160 | $28,004 |
| ID | Idaho | $23.38 | $48,640 | $51,308 |
| IL | Illinois | $26.24 | $54,580 | $57,212 |
| IN | Indiana | $23.02 | $47,890 | $52,626 |
| IA | Iowa | $22.05 | $45,860 | $50,340 |
| KS | Kansas | $21.66 | $45,050 | $51,722 |
| KY | Kentucky | $21.23 | $44,160 | $47,029 |
| LA | Louisiana | $20.16 | $41,920 | $44,882 |
| ME | Maine | $23.27 | $48,390 | $41,536 |
| MD | Maryland | $27.03 | $56,220 | $44,797 |
| MA | Massachusetts | $29.04 | $60,400 | $45,585 |
| MI | Michigan | $25.10 | $52,220 | $57,133 |
| MN | Minnesota | $23.96 | $49,840 | $49,249 |
| MS | Mississippi | $19.39 | $40,340 | $48,427 |
| MO | Missouri | $21.39 | $44,490 | $49,378 |
| MT | Montana | $22.12 | $46,010 | $45,872 |
| NE | Nebraska | $21.98 | $45,710 | $48,679 |
| NV | Nevada | $28.70 | $59,700 | $55,227 |
| NH | New Hampshire | $27.12 | $56,400 | $51,507 |
| NJ | New Jersey | $27.69 | $57,590 | $49,861 |
| NM | New Mexico | $24.27 | $50,480 | $55,595 |
| NY | New York | $24.66 | $51,300 | $35,161 |
| NC | North Carolina | $22.65 | $47,120 | $48,829 |
| ND | North Dakota | $23.10 | $48,060 | $49,242 |
| OH | Ohio | $22.40 | $46,590 | $50,641 |
| OK | Oklahoma | $20.79 | $43,250 | $48,815 |
| OR | Oregon | $27.56 | $57,320 | $43,457 |
| PA | Pennsylvania | $24.16 | $50,250 | $48,786 |
| RI | Rhode Island | $28.41 | $59,090 | $49,572 |
| SC | South Carolina | $20.97 | $43,630 | $45,259 |
| SD | South Dakota | $18.95 | $39,420 | $39,818 |
| TN | Tennessee | $20.35 | $42,330 | $47,243 |
| TX | Texas | $23.26 | $48,380 | $52,246 |
| UT | Utah | $22.86 | $47,550 | $48,225 |
| VT | Vermont | $24.64 | $51,240 | $43,870 |
| VA | Virginia | $22.79 | $47,410 | $46,802 |
| WA | Washington | $28.74 | $59,780 | $53,043 |
| WV | West Virginia | $18.72 | $38,940 | $41,916 |
| WI | Wisconsin | $23.11 | $48,070 | $49,557 |
| WY | Wyoming | $23.55 | $48,980 | $51,288 |
Are you interested in an LPN Career? Enroll in Nightingale College’s Practical Nurse Diploma Program today!
Nursing Salary Factors that Influence a Nurse’s Pay
It’s no surprise that nurses’ salaries depend on a variety of factors. Supply and demand influences and other popular factors listed below explain the variations in pay:
- Location – The state where a nurse works has a big impact on their income. Dense metropolitan areas will always offer a better pay compared to rural environments, even if the demand is high.
- Career specialization – Nurses who work in a specialized field of nursing can earn significantly more. Specialized fields usually welcome registered nurses that already hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree or a MSN.
Read more about the best nursing certifications – a great way to pursue specialization in the nursing field.
- Experience and work hours – Nobody can underestimate the power of acquired years of valuable experience, which is why senior nurses make more than those just entering the workforce.
One rule of thumb that generally applies to nursing salaries is that the more you learn, the more you earn. So, every step you take on the educational ladder will propel you toward higher wages. You probably noticed this trajectory even through this article. LPNs make on average $51,850; RNs earn up to $82,750, while RNs that have a Bachelor’s Degree have average salaries of $97,580. By climbing even higher on the academic ladder and pursuing an MSN you unlock your potential to earn APRN level salaries that range from $118,040 (Nurse Practitioners) to $202,470 (Nurse Anesthetists).
However, keep in mind that these factors are always intertwined and you need to consider them all when trying to determine your earning potential.
Enroll in Nightingale College’s RN-to-BSN Program and take your career – and your paycheck – one step forward!
The Best Paying Nursing Jobs Specialties in the US
As we’ve mentioned, salaries depend largely on geography, employer, experience, and other aspects. But there are some nursing specialties that are generally recognized as some of the best paying in the industry. Here are some of them:
Nurse Anesthetist
Nobody should be surprised by Nurse Anesthetists being at the top of the list as long as high salaries for RNs go. Their main task is prescribing and administering anesthesia to patients during medical procedures, but they also provide pain management and oversee patient recovery. And big responsibilities come with big paychecks. Nurse Anesthetists take home annually $202,470, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Geriatric Nurse Practitioner
Geriatric NPs focus on older patients who require specialized care. Usually, they work in private practices, hospitals or treatment centers. As Advanced Practice Nurses, they also enjoy more independence, are able to prescribe drugs, order diagnostics tests and develop and implement treatment plans for patients. Geriatric Nurse Practitioners earn about $153,319 per year.
Cardiac Nurse Practitioner
Cardiac Nurse Practitioners also make the list of high-paying nursing jobs. Their yearly wages are around $132,219. Their job description revolves around treating patients who suffer from diseases of the heart, blood vessels, and circulatory system.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Mental health practitioners have a very delicate job that integrates both psychology and psychiatry knowledge. Their work implies treating patients diagnosed with mental illnesses, and in order to do that they work side by side with psychiatrists and other physicians. Their salary is in the ballpark of $139,154.
Nurse Manager
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Medical and Health Services Managers, Nurse Managers included, earn a mean salary of $119,840, making this administrative role one of the best paying in the nursing field.
Find out how much Nurse Managers earn in all 50 states.
Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner
On average, Orthopedic Nurse Practitioners earn around $112,026 annually. Among their duties are conducting physical exams, taking patient’s history, analyzing test results, and prescribing treatments and medication.
Pain Management Nurse
A relatively new field, Pain Management Nursing has risen to the top of the highest paying in the nursing field. Pain Management Nurses earn about $116,981 a year. They care for patients who suffer from chronic, crippling pain. Pain Management Nurses are indispensable in helping patients alleviate or manage their pain.
Nurse Midwife
Nurse midwifery is a top choice for RNs with a high interest in women’s reproductive health and childbirth. It’s also a great option for Nurses who want to earn well while doing something they love. As it is an advanced nursing specialty, the earnings fall in line. Certified Nurse Midwives enjoy an average salary of $114,210.
Discover more about Nurse Midwives’ earning potential across the US.
Informatics Nurse
For nurses who are also passionate about technology, this might be the perfect career track, especially since Nurse Informaticians earn about $101,628 a year. In this role, you will bridge the worlds of nursing and IT.
Clinical Nurse Specialist
Clinical Nurse Specialists tend to work in specialized units or clinics, and more often than not they also specialize in particular areas of medicine. CNSs are viewed as experts in their field, and as such, their salaries are also reasonably high: $122,628.
Find out more of the highest-paid nursing jobs.
Key Takeaways for Nurses
Registered Nurses with a BSN degree and an MSN degree will be in high demand in the next decade. And not only is demand growing – so are salaries. Of course, alongside the salary, there are many other things to consider when picking a career. The location, the job benefits, the schedule, the cost of living in the area – these are just a few of the characteristics you have to take into account when pursuing a nursing job. Keep them in mind while planning your career path and you will get the most personal and professional satisfaction out of your career as a Registered Nurse.
Do you want to broaden your horizon, your education and most importantly, your salary? Enroll in Nightingale College’s BSN program and take your career to the next level!
Already a working professional? Get ahead of the game by pursuing a fully online RN-to-BSN degree.
FAQs
What state has the best RN wages? ›
Highest-paying states for registered nurses
California tops our list of the highest-paying states, where registered nurses make $124,000 per year on average. Following it is Hawaii, at $106,530, and Oregon at $98,6300.
- #5 Colorado. Quality of life ranking: #10. Average RN salary: $69,990.00. ...
- #4 Alaska. Quality of life ranking: #19. Average RN salary: $88,510.00. ...
- #3 Oregon. Quality of life ranking: #18. ...
- #2 Wisconsin. Quality of life ranking: #3. ...
- #1 Minnesota. Quality of life ranking: #2.
California has the worst nursing shortage in the United States. It's predicted that by 2030, California will be in need of over 44,000 nurses.
What are the highest-paying cities for RNs adjusted for cost of living? ›Highest-paying cities for RNs, adjusted for cost of living
As of 2021, the San Francisco Bay Area tops the list at 117.4, while Florence–Muscle Shoals, AL comes in lowest, at 82.4.
- 7% of both women and men retired at age 63.
- 8% of women and 7% of men retired at age 64.
- 11% of women and 13% of men retired at age 69.
- 9% of women and 6% of men retired at the age of 70 or beyond.
The highest-paying states by median NP salary are California ($151,830), Hawaii ($111,070), Oregon ($99,410), Alaska ($99,910), and Washington ($96,980). The lowest-paying states are South Dakota ($60,540), Alabama ($61,920), Mississippi ($63,130), Iowa ($64,990), and Arkansas ($65,810).
What are the best states to live in as a nurse? ›Best Places for Nurses to Live
Based on the annual mean wage of RNs and the cost of living per state, the top two states for nurses to work in are Nevada and Texas. Nevada has a 101.6 rating on the cost of living index, coupled with an annual mean wage for RNs of $83,790 per year.
- Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nurses. ICU is an extremely high-pressure environment and these nurses work with patients who have significant injuries and disease with added morbidity risks. ...
- Emergency Department nurses. ...
- Neonatal ICU. ...
- OR nursing. ...
- Oncology Nursing. ...
- Psychiatric Nursing.
...
2. Registered nurse (RN)
| Education | ASN (required) or BSN (recommended) |
|---|---|
| Certifications | Must pass the NCLEX-RN exam |
California has the highest recorded range of ratios, with as many as six patients to one nurse for psychiatric care. To put this in perspective, New York's average nurse-to-patient ratio for psychiatric care is around 3:6. Massachusetts has recently passed laws that mimic the California model.
What is the easiest floor to work on as a nurse? ›
Many will argue that med-surg work is the heart of nursing and provides new grads with the foundational skills they will need to move on to other specialties later, if they so choose. And frankly, the easiest and fastest way to get a job as a new grad is to go to a med/surg floor.
What is the largest employer for RN? ›| Industry | Employment (1) | Percent of industry employment |
|---|---|---|
| General Medical and Surgical Hospitals | 1,724,510 | 30.85 |
| Specialty (except Psychiatric and Substance Abuse) Hospitals | 63,460 | 23.43 |
| Psychiatric and Substance Abuse Hospitals | 39,080 | 16.86 |
| Outpatient Care Centers | 152,120 | 14.87 |
- Earn an advanced degree. ...
- Get certified in a specialization. ...
- Consider a leadership role. ...
- Become a travel nurse. ...
- Become a private duty nurse. ...
- Become an immunization nurse. ...
- Become an instructor. ...
- Become a nurse health coach.
Registered nurses work in hospitals, physicians' offices, home healthcare services, and nursing care facilities.
What hospital has the happiest nurses? ›1. Schneck Medical Center. Schneck Medical Center is a Magnet accredited hospital that is home to some of the happiest nurses in the world. In 2013, the nursing job satisfaction levels at Schneck had reached beyond the National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators.
Which country pay nurses most? ›Switzerland: Nurses in Switzerland have some of the highest salaries in the world, with an average annual salary of around $85000. Canada: Nurses in Canada earn an average annual salary of around $75000. Germany: Nurses in Germany have an average salary of around $65000.
Which country is the best to work as a nurse? ›- New Zealand (NZ) In New Zealand, the healthcare system is split between private and government-funded care. ...
- United States Of America. ...
- Australia. ...
- Denmark. ...
- United Kingdom. ...
- UAE. ...
- Canada.
| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | |
|---|---|---|
| Top Earners | $102,000 | $8,500 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,000 | $5,750 |
| Average | $57,015 | $4,751 |
| 25th Percentile | $31,000 | $2,583 |
With everyone living and working longer these days, you're never too old to start a career in nursing.
Can nurses work until 70? ›Let's consider the facts: Many nurses are still working at the bedside in their 70s and a few even in their 80s. Granted, every nurse is different and age alone is not an indictor of ability.
Where is the best place to practice nursing in the US? ›
1. San Francisco, California. As one of the highest-paying cities for nurses, this city by the bay offers plenty of job opportunities to help offset the high cost of living. San Francisco is an area with diverse health care needs for a population of nearly one million people.
What type of nurse makes the least money? ›For starters consider the main types of nursing careers. These include nurse practitioner (NP), registered nurse (RN), licensed practical nurse (LPN), and nursing aides or nursing assistants. Nursing aides make the least amount of money, and these jobs require the least amount of education and training.
Is the nursing shortage getting better? ›According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Employment Projections 2021-2031, the Registered Nursing (RN) workforce is expected to grow by 6% over the next decade. The RN workforce is expected to grow from 3.1 million in 2021 to 3.3 million in 2031, an increase of 195,400 nurses.
Where is the easiest place to be a nurse? ›- Nurse Educator. This is one of the least stressful nursing jobs available. ...
- School Nurse/Summer Camp Nurse. If you love children, this might be the perfect opportunity for you. ...
- Nurse Administrator. ...
- Public Health Nurse. ...
- Nurse Researcher. ...
- Nurse Informaticist. ...
- Case Management Nurse. ...
- Home Health Nurse.
- Maine: 1-2 weeks.
- Maryland: 2-3 days.
- Missouri: 2 weeks.
- Nevada: 1-2 weeks.
- North Carolina: 1-2 weeks.
- North Dakota: 1-2 weeks.
- Texas: 2 weeks.
- Vermont: 3-5 business days.
None. There is no “easy” state to take the NCLEX. The NCLEX is a national exam administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Because it's national, the NCLEX will be the same regardless of what state you choose to take it in.
Which type of nurse is most prone to burnout? ›Critical care nurses tend to suffer the highest rates of burnout. Critical care specialties include the emergency department (ED) and intensive care unit (ICU). Emergency department nurses tend to experience the highest rates of burnout.
Where are the happiest nurses in the world? ›Norway, a Scandinavian country known as the land of Fjords, has one of the highest standards of living in the world as well as job satisfaction for nurses. While the average salary is $46,050, nurses have the ability to earn upwards of $100,000 depending on experience and specialty.
What is the most difficult nursing field? ›The most stressful nursing jobs include ICU nurse, ER nurse, and NICU nurse. In these roles, nurses work in an intense environment with high stakes. They manage emergency situations and care for critically ill patients. Other stressful nursing jobs include OR nursing, oncology nursing, and psychiatric nursing.
Which nurses have highest job satisfaction? ›- School Nurse. Nurses in schools are available to help care for students who are presenting with an illness or who require assistance with medication administration for a previously diagnosed condition. ...
- Labor and Delivery Nurse. ...
- Case Management Nurse. ...
- Nurse Educator. ...
- Parish Nurse. ...
- Travel Nurse.
Where do the smartest nurses work? ›
Case in point, within all general areas of nursing, the Medical ICU, Trauma ICU, Peds ICU, Neonatal ICU, are perceived to require the highest skill set of nurses.
What is the most qualified nurse? ›Doctor Of Nursing Practice (DNP)
A Doctorate Of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the highest level of nursing education and expertise within the nursing profession. DNPs work in nursing administration or direct patient care as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).
- New York. New York has come in as #1 among the best states for nurses. ...
- Colorado. Colorado was the fourth state in the nation to join the Nurse Licensure Compact. ...
- Maryland. ...
- 4. California. ...
- Texas. ...
- Arizona. ...
- Washington. ...
- Georgia.
What Is the Nurse-to-Patient Ratio Recommendation? Generally, the nurse-to-patient ratio recommendation is one nurse to every four patients. According to a National Nurses United report, there are currently no federal mandates that regulate the number of patients registered nurses (RNs) can care for simultaneously.
What is the safest nurse-to-patient ratio? ›The right nurse-to-patient staffing ratio
For example, the nurse-to-patient ratio in a critical care unit must be 1:2 or fewer at all times, and the nurse-to-patient ratio in an emergency department must be 1:4 or fewer at all times that patients are receiving treatment, the law states.
Institutional Nurses
These nurses administer more basic care and typically don't have to work long hours and overnight shifts, so this field of nursing tends to be low-stress. Even with less excitement, these nurses find fulfillment in providing basic and family care to those in need.
What's the best unit for a new grad nurse? The best unit for a new grad nurse is the intensive care unit. In the ICU, new nurses will deal with some of the sickest patients around learning valuable experiences while stile still having support.
What are the best nursing positions? ›- Legal nurse consultant. ...
- Forensic nurse consultant. ...
- Public health nurse. ...
- Occupational nurse. ...
- Medical writer. ...
- Physical therapist. ...
- Psychiatric nurse practitioner. ...
- Medical or pharmaceutical sales.
National Nurses United (NNU) is the largest organization of registered nurses in the United States.
What is the average age of registered nurses? ›Key Nursing Statistics
Over 325,000 nurse practitioners (NPs) are licensed in the United States. The nurse population is comprised of 14% men and 86% women. 44 years old is the average age of a registered nurse. 69.6% of all nurses in the United States are white.
How to make $100,000 as an RN? ›
- Become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) ...
- Become a Nurse Practitioner (NP) ...
- Become a Nurse Midwife. ...
- Advance in Nurse Leadership. ...
- Begin travel nursing assignment. ...
- Change Nursing specialties. ...
- Relocate to a higher paying state. ...
- Make sacrifices.
Make The Most Of Your Salary
However, due to California's high-paying nursing salaries and various cities with affordable living costs, it's very possible to live comfortably in this state on your own. What is this? For help finding your next nursing job in California, visit our job board!
It's not uncommon when a person who wants to get into nursing school tells others they can make the “big bucks” doing what they do. That's why Olivia Reeves, 35, gives her steps to success on how she made between $250,000 to $500,000 a year — and paid off her student loans — by the time she was 27.
What state is the hardest to get a nursing license? ›- MAINE. ...
- ALASKA. ...
- Georgia. ...
- Alabama. ...
- Hawaii. ...
- South Carolina. ...
- Kentucky. ...
- Summary. There are a few cases when temporary licenses can be obtained through the state board of nursing.
The national nursing shortage dates back decades, but the COVID-19 pandemic pushed it to crisis levels. One study predicts that, in the next two years, there will be a shortage of up to 450,000 bedside nurses in the U.S. In countries around the world, medical workers are pleading for more support.
Why are nurses paid so much in California? ›High demand, the high cost of living and union power underlie the higher salaries of California's registered nurses. Burger said the nurse's union has also played a role in assuring that nurses have access to pension plans and that they retire with health benefits.
What state employs the most nurses? ›- California (274,650)
- Texas (207,810)
- New York (180,730)
- Florida (174,710)
- Pennsylvania (139,480)
Registered nurses in the U.S. make an average of $82,750 annually and have a mean hourly wage of $39.78, though these figures vary greatly by state.
Why are US nurses paid so much? ›In addition to education, nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed in their state. Because of the training and education students receive, many healthcare organizations pay their nurses well. Receiving an excellent salary is even more common in high-demand areas with a limited supply of qualified nurses.
Which state pays nurses the least? ›The lowest-paying states are South Dakota ($60,540), Alabama ($61,920), Mississippi ($63,130), Iowa ($64,990), and Arkansas ($65,810).
Is it worth moving to California for nursing? ›
Is California a good state for nurses? California is a good state for new grads and experienced nurses. The pay is good, and most nurses will enjoy the Cali weather. The downside is that California does have one of the highest costs of living among U.S. states.
Where are nurses paid the most in the world? ›Switzerland: Nurses in Switzerland have some of the highest salaries in the world, with an average annual salary of around $85000. Canada: Nurses in Canada earn an average annual salary of around $75000. Germany: Nurses in Germany have an average salary of around $65000.
What is the highest earning an RN per hour? ›| Years of experience | Per hour |
|---|---|
| 1 to 2 years | $42.69 |
| 3 to 5 years | $44.81 |
| 6 to 9 years | $46.42 |
| More than 10 years | $51.90 |
How much does a BSN make in Texas? As of Apr 23, 2023, the average annual pay for the BSN jobs category in Texas is $92,337 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $44.39 an hour. This is the equivalent of $1,775/week or $7,694/month.
What is the minimum salary for RN in USA? ›How much does a Registered Nurse make in USA? The average registered nurse salary in the USA is $75,453 per year or $36.28 per hour. Entry level positions start at $54,892 per year while most experienced workers make up to $118,823 per year.
Why do travel nurses get paid more? ›Travel nurses take on short-term assignments, which typically start at 13-weeks, ensuring that patients receive quality care even if a facility is having trouble filling open nursing positions. In exchange for their experience and flexibility, travel nurses typically get paid more than staff nurses.
How can a nurse make extra money? ›Nurses can make extra money from side gigs such as telehealth care, freelance medical writing, and tutoring nursing students. You may also choose a side hustle that isn't based on your nursing skills, such as making and selling crafts on Etsy, completing online surveys, or playing legit game apps that pay money.
Are nurses paid more than doctors in USA? ›According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, doctors typically earn approximately $100 per hour, on average. Nurse practitioners often make a little over $50 per hour. Of course, these are average hourly pay rates and various factors may contribute to higher or lower hourly rates for both professionals.