Nursing is one of the most essential and in-demand professions in the United States. With the increasing need for healthcare services and the aging population, registered nurses (RNs) play a critical role in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. Salaries for nurses vary significantly across U.S. states due to differences in cost of living, healthcare systems, and demand for nurses. Below is a comprehensive overview of average registered nurse salaries across all 50 states.
Top Paying States for Nurses
California offers the highest average salary for registered nurses in the United States. RNs in California earn approximately $133,340 annually. This is largely due to high demand, strong labor unions, and a high cost of living, particularly in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Hawaii ranks second with an average salary of $113,220. The cost of living in Hawaii is also among the highest in the country, which contributes to the higher wages.
Oregon, Massachusetts, Alaska, and Washington also offer competitive salaries for nurses, with average wages ranging from $98,000 to $106,000 annually.
States with Moderate Nurse Salaries
Several states offer salaries that fall within the national average range of around $80,000 to $90,000 per year. These include:
-
Colorado: $86,590
-
Maryland: $87,990
-
Minnesota: $86,690
-
Arizona: $86,740
-
Georgia: $85,180
-
New Mexico: $85,580
These states have a lower cost of living compared to coastal regions but still provide solid compensation for RNs, especially those working in urban centers or specialized roles.
States with Lower Nurse Salaries
Some states offer lower average wages for registered nurses. These states typically have a lower cost of living, but the salaries may not be as competitive for those with extensive experience or advanced certifications. Examples include:
-
Mississippi: $64,810
-
Alabama: $66,910
-
Arkansas: $66,530
-
Iowa: $69,370
-
South Dakota: $69,510
While the pay is lower, these states can be attractive to nurses seeking a quieter lifestyle or lower living expenses.
Complete Overview of Average RN Salaries by State
Here is a brief summary of average annual RN salaries across all U.S. states:
-
California: $133,340
-
Hawaii: $113,220
-
Oregon: $106,610
-
Massachusetts: $104,150
-
Alaska: $103,310
-
Washington: $98,740
-
Nevada: $98,800
-
New York: $98,030
-
New Jersey: $96,670
-
Connecticut: $94,260
-
Maryland: $87,990
-
Minnesota: $86,690
-
Colorado: $86,590
-
Arizona: $86,740
-
Georgia: $85,180
-
New Mexico: $85,580
-
Rhode Island: $85,270
-
Texas: $84,320
-
Illinois: $82,220
-
Virginia: $81,860
-
Wisconsin: $81,000
-
Michigan: $80,660
-
Pennsylvania: $80,630
-
Vermont: $80,000
-
New Hampshire: $80,550
-
Florida: $79,910
-
Utah: $78,380
-
Ohio: $78,450
-
Montana: $78,360
-
Idaho: $78,610
-
Wyoming: $78,000
-
Maine: $77,410
-
North Carolina: $77,420
-
Kentucky: $77,620
-
Indiana: $75,580
-
Nebraska: $75,000
-
North Dakota: $75,000
-
Louisiana: $75,920
-
Oklahoma: $74,800
-
Tennessee: $74,000
-
South Carolina: $74,330
-
Missouri: $72,760
-
West Virginia: $72,230
-
Kansas: $71,990
-
Iowa: $69,370
-
South Dakota: $69,510
-
Arkansas: $66,530
-
Alabama: $66,910
-
Mississippi: $64,810
Conclusion
Nursing salaries in the United States can range widely depending on the state of employment. While states like California, Hawaii, and Oregon lead with the highest wages, many other states offer fair compensation, especially when adjusted for cost of living. Nurses should consider both salary and lifestyle preferences when deciding where to live and work. Whether one prioritizes income, work-life balance, or lower living costs, the nursing profession provides diverse opportunities across all 50 states.
