Registered Nurse Salary by State & Experience 2025 | USA

Understanding Registered Nurse Salaries Across U.S. States

Registered nurse compensation varies across the United States due to differences in healthcare demand, cost of living, union presence, and staffing needs. As the largest healthcare occupation, RNs play a critical role in patient care nationwide.

Historical Salary Trends (2005–2024)

Over the past two decades, average registered nurse pay has shown steady growth, with accelerated increases during periods of high demand. States with strong healthcare systems have generally outperformed the national average.

Regional Compensation Differences

High-cost states like California and Hawaii typically offer the highest salaries, while states with lower living costs provide competitive take-home pay. Urban hospitals and specialty units often pay more than rural or general facilities.

How Experience Impacts Earnings

Experience significantly influences compensation. Entry-level nurses start near the national average, while those with 10+ years, advanced certifications, or shift differentials can earn substantially more.

Using This Tool

This interactive tool helps visualize long-term salary patterns by state and experience level, supporting decisions about job offers, relocation, or career advancement in nursing.