How Much Do Registered Nurses Make?

Factors That Affect Registered Nurse Salaries

There are several factors that can influence the salary of a registered nurse (RN). Here are some of the most significant factors:

Education and Experience: RNs with higher levels of education and more experience tend to earn higher salaries. For example, RNs with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree typically earn more than those with an associate degree in nursing (ADN).

Location: Registered nurses working in metropolitan areas or in states with higher costs of living may earn more than those working in rural areas or in states with lower costs of living.

Employer: The type of employer can also affect RN salaries. Hospitals and healthcare systems generally pay higher salaries than long-term care facilities or home healthcare agencies.

Specialty: RNs who work in specialized fields such as critical care, emergency care, or surgery tend to earn higher salaries than those who work in general medical-surgical settings.

Certifications: RNs who hold certifications in their specialty areas may earn higher salaries than those without certifications.

It’s important to keep in mind that these factors are not the only ones that can affect RN salaries, and individual salaries may vary based on a variety of other factors.

Registered Nurse Salary by State and Specialty

The salary of a registered nurse (RN) can vary widely depending on the state and specialty in which they work. Here are some examples of the average RN salary by state and specialty in the United States:

State: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2021, the highest-paying states for RNs were California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Oregon, and Alaska, with average salaries ranging from $113,240 to $123,910 per year. The lowest-paying states were Arkansas, Oklahoma, and South Dakota, with average salaries ranging from $62,640 to $68,690 per year.

Specialty: RNs who work in specialized fields tend to earn higher salaries than those who work in general medical-surgical settings. For example, RNs who work in the field of nurse anesthesia have the highest median annual salary, at $189,190, according to the BLS. Other high-paying specialties include nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, and nurse anesthetists.

It’s important to keep in mind that these are just examples and that individual RN salaries can vary depending on a variety of factors, including education, experience, certifications, and location.

Job Outlook for Registered Nurses

The job outlook for registered nurses (RNs) is positive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of RNs is projected to grow 9% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due in part to an aging population that will require more healthcare services.

In addition to a favorable job outlook, RNs also have a variety of career advancement opportunities. RNs can pursue advanced degrees, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), to become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), such as nurse practitioners or nurse anesthetists. APRNs generally have higher salaries and greater autonomy than RNs.

RNs can also pursue certifications in specialized areas, such as critical care, emergency care, or oncology. These certifications can lead to higher salaries and greater job opportunities.

Overall, the job outlook for RNs is strong, and the profession offers numerous opportunities for career growth and advancement.

Ways to Increase Your Registered Nurse Salary

There are several ways that registered nurses (RNs) can increase their salaries:

Advance your education: Pursuing a higher level of education, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), can increase your earning potential as an RN.

Specialize: RNs who specialize in a particular area, such as critical care or oncology, often earn higher salaries than those who work in general medical-surgical settings.

Get certified: Obtaining certifications in your area of specialization can demonstrate your expertise and increase your earning potential.

Work in a high-paying state or metropolitan area: RNs who work in states with higher costs of living or in metropolitan areas often earn higher salaries.

Work for a large healthcare system or hospital: These organizations often offer higher salaries and more opportunities for advancement than smaller healthcare facilities.

Take on additional responsibilities: RNs who take on leadership roles, such as charge nurse or nurse manager, often earn higher salaries than those in staff nurse roles.

It’s important to keep in mind that these are just a few examples of ways to increase your RN salary, and individual salaries may vary based on a variety of other factors.

The Importance of Negotiating Your Registered Nurse Salary

Negotiating your registered nurse (RN) salary can have a significant impact on your earning potential. Unfortunately, many RNs do not negotiate their salaries, either because they are uncomfortable with the process or because they believe that their salary is non-negotiable.

However, it’s important to remember that many employers are willing to negotiate salaries, and that failing to negotiate can cost you thousands of dollars over the course of your career. Here are some tips for negotiating your RN salary:

Do your research: Research the average salary for RNs in your area and with your level of experience, as well as the salary range for the position you are applying for.

Prepare a list of your qualifications: Make a list of your education, experience, certifications, and other qualifications that demonstrate your value as an RN.

Practice your negotiation skills: Practice negotiating with a friend or family member to build your confidence and hone your negotiation skills.

Be flexible: If the employer is unable to offer you the salary you are requesting, consider negotiating other benefits, such as additional vacation time or a flexible work schedule.

Know your worth: Remember that you have valuable skills and expertise as an RN, and that you deserve to be compensated fairly for your work.

Overall, negotiating your RN salary is an important step in maximizing your earning potential and advancing your career as a registered nurse.