RN Salary
The median US national Registered Nurse salary is $86,070 as of 2023. The national pay ranges from the highest 10% of RNs making $132,680 and the lowest 10% making $63,720. Our salary data is consolidated from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How Much Do RNs Make Per Hour?
The median national wage for Registered Nurses is $41.38 per hour in the US according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023).
What does a Registered Nurse do?
RNs are often the first point of contact for patients. They conduct initial patient assessments, monitor vital signs, and continuously evaluate patients' conditions throughout their care. RNs also administer medication & treatments, provide patient education, and continual support for the patient throughout their stay to ensure their comfort.
Registered nurses also handle a number of administrative duties including patient documentation, following care plans, and complying with healthcare regulations and safety standards. RNs are also expected to be advocates for their patients to ensure that their patients' needs and preferences are respected in all aspects of their care.
Want to learn more about the duties of Registered Nurses? Read our full article here.
Highest paying nursing agencies
Top paying cities for RNs
According to ZipRecruiter data
| City | State | Average National Salary |
| Corcoran | California | $139k |
| Avenal | California | $127k |
| Portola Valley | California | $124k |
| Soledad | California | $120k |
| San Mateo County | California | $118k |
| Mineral | Virginia | $117k |
| Redwood City | California | $117k |
| Barrow | Arkansas | $117k |
| Marin County | California | $116k |
How to increase your salary as a Registered Nurse
1. Obtain a BSN or Higher Degrees
While an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is enough to become an RN, many hospitals and healthcare facilities prefer nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Having a BSN can open doors to higher-paying positions. Pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or even a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) can qualify you for advanced roles such as nurse practitioner (NP) or nurse educator, both of which offer substantial salary increases.
2. Gain Specialty Certifications
Certifications in specialized areas of nursing not only enhance your knowledge and skills but also boost your earning potential. Certifications such as CCRN (Critical Care), CNOR (Operating Room), or OCN (Oncology) can lead to higher-paying positions. Many employers offer pay differentials or bonuses for nurses who hold specialty certifications.
3. Take on Leadership or Management Roles
Nurses who transition into leadership positions, such as charge nurse, nurse manager, or clinical nurse leader, often enjoy higher salaries. These roles typically involve overseeing teams, managing patient care, and contributing to administrative decisions, all of which come with greater responsibility and compensation.
4. Work Overtime or Pick Up Additional Shifts
Overtime pay can add a significant boost to your salary. Hospitals and healthcare facilities often offer higher pay rates for nurses willing to work extra shifts, particularly during nights, weekends, or in units experiencing staff shortages. Taking on additional hours is an immediate way to increase your income.
5. Explore Travel Nursing or Per Diem Opportunities
Travel nursing offers the chance to work in high-demand areas for short-term contracts that often come with higher pay and stipends for housing and travel. Per diem nursing, where nurses work on an as-needed basis, usually offers higher hourly rates. Both options provide flexibility and the opportunity to earn more.
6. Relocate to Higher-Paying Regions
Nurse salaries vary by location, with states like California, Massachusetts, and Washington typically offering higher wages due to the cost of living and demand for healthcare workers. Relocating to regions where nurses are in high demand or where the pay scale is higher can result in a substantial salary increase.
7. Negotiate Your Salary
Don’t overlook the power of negotiation. Whether you’re starting a new position or seeking a raise in your current role, research the average salary for your region, your level of experience, and any specialty skills you offer. Come prepared to discuss your accomplishments and how they add value to the organization.