Quick Note: This guide includes detailed salary information for permanent RN roles.
Nurses working in top-paying states earn almost double what their colleagues make in other parts of the country. Like all professionals, healthcare workers are always seeking opportunities to increase their earnings while continuing to provide exceptional patient care.
Your choice of state can make a big difference in your take-home pay. We’ve done our homework and gathered detailed information about states offering the highest salaries for Registered Nurses (RNs).
Whether you’re a new graduate or an experienced RN considering relocation, this guide is a must-read. It provides valuable salary information for permanent RN roles, helping you discover which states offer the highest salaries for RNs, along with the necessary requirements to practice and important considerations if you’re planning to relocate.
Here are the states offering the highest salaries for Registered Nurses (RNs) in permanent roles. Keep in mind, the yearly and hourly salaries mentioned are average figures.
State | RNs Yearly Salary | RNs Hourly Salary |
---|---|---|
California | $133,990 | $64.42 |
Hawaii | $129,210 | $62.12 |
Oregon | $110,940 | $53.34 |
Washington | $107,720 | $51.79 |
Alaska | $106,410 | $51.16 |
New York | $104,570 | $50.28 |
Connecticut | $100,620 | $48.37 |
Massachusetts | $99,730 | $47.95 |
Minnesota | $97,300 | $46.78 |
Nevada | $96,210 | $46.25 |
Now that you’ve seen which states offer the highest salaries for RNs, it’s time to think about other key factors. We’ll look at the cost of living, projected job growth, and what qualifications you’ll need to work in each state. Let’s break it all down and help you make the best choice.
Quick Tip: The cost-of-living index shows how expenses compare to the national average: 100 is average, above 100 means higher costs, and below 100 means lower costs.
Yearly Salary for RNs in California: $133,990
Hourly Rate: $64.42
Cost of living: 134.5
RN projected growth by 2030: 11%
Consider this before you go…
The demand for RNs is high, particularly in specialty fields such as ICU and Emergency Nursing.
To Keep in Mind: California has some of the highest nurse wages in the U.S., but also a higher cost of living, especially in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. The state’s diverse geography offers everything from beaches to mountains.
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Submit ResumeYearly Salary for RNs in Hawaii: $129,210
Hourly Rate: $62.12
Cost of living: 179
RN projected growth by 2030: 9%
Consider this before you go…
Nurses in Hawaii often experience a higher patient-to-nurse ratio, especially in rural areas and on smaller islands.
To Keep in Mind: Moving to Hawaii means living in paradise, but housing costs are among the highest in the U.S., and importing goods means higher prices on everyday items.
Yearly Salary for RNs in Oregon: $110,940
Hourly Rate: $53.34
Cost of living: $115.1
RN projected growth by 2030: 12%
Consider this before you go…
Oregon is known for emphasizing holistic care and patient-centered approaches in healthcare settings.
To Keep in Mind: Oregon has no sales tax, making everyday purchases a bit cheaper. The state is known for its lush forests, craft breweries, and outdoor activities.
Yearly Salary for RNs in Washington: $107,720
Hourly Rate: $51.79
Cost of living: 115.1
RN projected growth by 2030: 16%
Consider this before you go…
Washington has a growing demand for RNs, particularly in Seattle and rural healthcare systems.
To Keep in Mind: Washington is a tech hub, and the state is one of the most eco-friendly, known for its green energy initiatives. Seattle is also known for its coffee culture and stunning views of the Puget Sound.
Yearly Salary for RNs in Alaska: $106,410
Hourly Rate: $51.16
Cost of living: 124.4
RN projected growth by 2030: 14%
Consider this before you go…
RNs in Alaska may work in remote areas with limited medical resources, offering unique challenges and rewards.
To Keep in Mind: Alaska is famous for its stunning wilderness, and healthcare professionals often get unique opportunities to work with indigenous populations and experience the northern lights.
Yearly Salary for RNs in New York: $104,570
Hourly Rate: $50.28
Cost of living: 125.1
RN projected growth by 2030: 17%
Consider this before you go…
New York offers a range of opportunities, from urban hospitals to rural healthcare centers, but the job market is competitive.
To Keep in Mind: New York City is known for its world-class healthcare institutions, while upstate New York offers a slower pace of life and stunning natural beauty, including the Adirondack Mountains.
Yearly Salary for RNs in Connecticut: $100,620
Hourly Rate: $48.37
Cost of living: 113.1
RN projected growth by 2030: 4%
Consider this before you go…
Connecticut has a strong demand for RNs, particularly in specialized fields like oncology and geriatrics.
To Keep in Mind: Connecticut is home to some of the oldest cities in the U.S., offering a rich colonial history and quaint New England charm. It also boasts a strong healthcare system with many prestigious hospitals.
Yearly Salary for RNs in Massachusetts: $99,730
Hourly Rate: $47.95
Cost of living: 148.4
RN projected growth by 2030: 12%
Consider this before you go…
The state is home to some of the best hospitals in the country, particularly Boston. The healthcare system is innovative and offers many research opportunities.
To Keep in Mind: Massachusetts is home to the world-renowned Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School. Boston is also known for its sports culture and historic landmarks.
Yearly Salary for RNs in Minnesota: $97,300
Hourly Rate: $46.78
Cost of living: 94.1
RN projected growth by 2030: 7%
Consider this before you go…
Minnesota has an extensive healthcare system, including the Mayo Clinic, one of the top hospitals in the world.
To Keep in Mind: Minnesota’s “Land of 10,000 Lakes” nickname is no joke—it’s a great state for outdoor activities year-round. The cost of living is relatively affordable compared to other states with top-tier healthcare systems.
Yearly salary for RNs in Nevada: $96,210
Hourly rate: $46.25
Cost of living: 101.3
RN projected growth by 2030: 23%
Consider this before you go…
Nevada offers a variety of nursing opportunities, from Las Vegas hospitals to rural healthcare, but competition can be strong in the urban areas.
To Keep in Mind: Nevada is known for its desert landscapes and 24-hour cities like Las Vegas. The state has no personal income tax, making it a popular destination for those looking to save on taxes.
In conclusion, when it comes to maximizing your earning potential as an RN, location plays a crucial role. States like California, Hawaii, and Oregon offer some of the highest salaries for Registered Nurses, but it’s important to balance salary with the cost of living and specific state requirements.
Whether you are just starting your nursing career or considering a move to a new state, the right location can provide not only a higher paycheck but also unique opportunities for professional growth.
Take time to research the requirements and benefits of each state to ensure that your next career move aligns with both your financial goals and lifestyle preferences.
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