How Much Do Nurses Make?
$86,070median annual salary
$41.38/hour · $7,173/month · BLS Code: 29-1141
Registered nurses (RNs) provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients about health conditions, and provide emotional support. They work in hospitals, clinics, nursing facilities, and home health settings. Nursing is consistently one of the most in-demand professions in the United States.
Registered Nurse Salary at a Glance
Entry Level
$61,250
Starting salary
Median
$86,070
50th percentile
Senior Level
$106,530
Experienced professionals
Top 10%
$129,400
90th percentile
Salary Range
Salary by Experience Level
Top Paying States for Nurses
#1
California
$124,000
#2
Hawaii
$113,220
#3
Oregon
$106,610
#4
Washington
$105,440
#5
Massachusetts
$104,150
Top Paying Cities for Nurses
Education & Requirements
Education
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred; Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) accepted
Typical Degree
BSN or ADN
Certifications
Job Outlook
+6%
Projected Growth (2022-2032)
3,175,390
Total Employed
BLS Outlook Category
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Registered Nurse Salary FAQ
How much do nurses make per hour?
The median hourly wage for registered nurses is about $41.38. Entry-level RNs earn around $29.45/hour while experienced nurses in high-paying states like California can earn $60+/hour.
What type of nurse gets paid the most?
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are the highest-paid nursing specialty, earning a median salary of $203,090. Other high-paying specialties include nurse practitioners ($126,260) and clinical nurse specialists.
Do nurses make 6 figures?
Yes, many experienced nurses earn six figures, especially in high-cost-of-living states like California, Hawaii, and Oregon. Travel nurses, nurse practitioners, and CRNAs commonly exceed $100,000.
How long does it take to become a nurse?
An ADN takes 2-3 years, while a BSN takes 4 years. Accelerated BSN programs for those with a prior bachelor's degree take 12-18 months. You must also pass the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.
Is nursing a good career in 2026?
Yes. The BLS projects 6% growth (faster than average) with about 193,100 new openings per year through 2032. The nursing shortage, aging population, and expanding healthcare needs make it an extremely stable career.
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Read moreSalary data is based on BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics, industry surveys, and widely-reported compensation benchmarks. Figures are approximate and vary by location, employer, experience, and market conditions. This is educational content — not career or financial advice.