Highest Paying States for Registered Nurses
One crucial aspect that often holds great importance is nurse pay. While nursing is a fulfilling profession in itself, it's undeniable that a higher nurse salary can significantly influence a nurse's choice of location and specialty. The annual salary of nurses in the US is about $77,000. States such as California or Alaska have much higher RN salaries. For those who are looking to combine a rewarding profession with the RN salary, it's worth considering the top paying states for nurses. California has the highest pay at $133,340.
In this Article
What state do nurses get paid the most?
Which US state is best for nursing?
What is the highest paying state for nurses?
1. California: Leading the Pack
Topping the list of the best paying states for nurses is the Golden State – California. With a median annual income of a staggering $133,340 or approximately $64.10 per hour, California nurses enjoy a compensation package that reflects the state's higher cost of living and typically having nursing unions. It is also considered one of the best states to be a nurse. No wonder it is the highest paid state for nurses.
Things to do:
Explore the iconic cities of Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego.
Visit the stunning beaches of Malibu, Santa Monica, and Huntington Beach.
Discover the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park and the Redwood forests.
Enjoy wine tasting in the Napa and Sonoma Valley vineyards.
2. Hawaii: Where Beauty Meets Compensation
In the tropical paradise of Hawaii, registered nurses command an annual median salary of $113,220, equivalent to about $54.43 per hour. While the beautiful beaches and breathtaking landscapes is undeniable, the nursing wages in Hawaii make it an even more attractive destination. Hawaii comes in at the second highest paying RN states along with a high cost of living.
Things to do:
Relax on the world-renowned beaches of Waikiki in Honolulu or Maui's Kaanapali.
Snorkel or scuba dive in Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve.
Hike to the top of Diamond Head for panoramic views of Oahu.
Experience the Polynesian culture at a traditional luau.
3. Oregon: Nursing with a Pacific Northwest View
Oregon stands as a testament to the idea that beautiful landscapes can harmoniously coexist with competitive nursing salaries. Coming in as the third best paid nursing states, with a median annual wage of $106,610, or $51.26 per hour, nurses in Oregon can enjoy a nice RN salary with a lower cost of living than California.
Things to do:
Explore the vibrant city of Portland with its unique neighborhoods and food scene.
Visit Crater Lake National Park, home to the deepest lake in the US.
Discover the beauty of Multnomah Falls and other waterfalls along the Columbia River Gorge.
Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking in Bend.
4. Massachusetts: A Hub of Healthcare Excellence
In the heart of New England, Massachusetts offers registered nurses an average annual salary of $104,150, which equates to around $50.07 per hour. This state's rich history, combined with its vibrant healthcare industry, ensures that nurses are rewarded with high RN salaries. Massachusetts comes in as the fourth best paying states for RN nurses.
Things to do:
Immerse yourself in the history of Boston by visiting the Freedom Trail and the USS Constitution Museum.
Explore the picturesque towns of Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard.
Experience the academic atmosphere of Cambridge, home to Harvard and MIT.
Enjoy a whale watching tour off the coast of Massachusetts.
5. Alaska: High Rewards in the Last Frontier
Embracing the wild beauty of Alaska is not the only draw for nurses looking for exceptional compensation. With a median annual wage of $103,310, or approximately $49.67 per hour, Alaska ranks high on the list of states that provide nurses with both financial stability and the chance to explore untamed landscapes. Alaska comes in 5th for highest paying states for registered nurses.
Things to do:
Witness the Northern Lights in Fairbanks during the winter months.
Cruise through the Inside Passage and Glacier Bay National Park.
Explore Denali National Park and see the highest peak in North America.
Experience the unique culture and heritage of native Alaskan communities.
6. Washington: Where Nursing Meets Innovation
Known for its tech industry and progressive mindset, Washington state offers registered nurses a median annual salary of $101,670, or $48.88 per hour. Nurses in this state are not only compensated well but also have the opportunity to be part of an innovative healthcare landscape.
Things to do:
Explore the vibrant neighborhoods and cultural attractions of Seattle.
Hike and explore the beauty of Olympic National Park.
Take a ferry ride to the picturesque San Juan Islands.
Discover the Mount Rainier National Park with its stunning landscapes.
7. New York: The Empire State of Nursing
With a diverse population and a thriving healthcare sector, New York boasts an average annual salary of $100,130, equivalent to about $48.14 per hour, for registered nurses. The state's cosmopolitan atmosphere, combined with its attractive compensation package, makes it an appealing choice for those seeking a rewarding nursing career.
Things to do:
Experience the energy of New York City by visiting Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.
Explore the cultural diversity of neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little Italy, and Harlem.
See world-class art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art.
Catch a Broadway show or enjoy live music in the city's numerous venues.
8. New Jersey: Balancing Compensation and Quality of Life
Nurses in New Jersey enjoy an average annual salary of $96,670, or approximately $46.48 per hour. This state not only offers competitive compensation but also provides a variety of opportunities for nurses to grow in their careers and maintain a high quality of life.
Things to do:
Relax on the Jersey Shore's beautiful beaches.
Visit the historic village of Cape May with its Victorian architecture.
Explore the vibrant city of Jersey City, just across the Hudson River from Manhattan.
Enjoy shopping and entertainment at the American Dream mall.
9. Nevada: Betting on Nursing
Rounding out the list is Nevada, where registered nurses earn a median annual salary of $96,310, or $46.30 per hour. The state's unique blend of entertainment, culture, and career prospects makes it an intriguing option for those seeking a fulfilling nursing career coupled with attractive compensation.
Things to do:
Experience the excitement of Las Vegas with its world-famous casinos, shows, and nightlife.
Visit the stunning landscapes of Red Rock Canyon and Valley of Fire State Park.
Explore the history of mining towns like Virginia City.
Take a scenic drive along the Extraterrestrial Highway near Area 51.
Best Paying States for Nurses
In conclusion, the highest-paying nursing jobs are often found in states where the cost of living is higher, but the rewards are also substantial. From the stunning coastlines of California to the rugged landscapes of Alaska, and the bustling cities of New York and Massachusetts, nurses across the United States have the opportunity to combine their passion for patient care with a well-deserved paycheck. While salary is undoubtedly an important consideration, nurses must also weigh factors like job satisfaction, career growth, and work-life balance when choosing their ideal location to practice nursing.
Commonly Asked Questions About Nurse Pay
What state pays nurses the most?
California is the highest paying state for nurses
Where do nurses make the most money?
ICU setting in the hospital or injection nurses. Most likely in the state of California. ICU nurses have an additional nurse salary increase.
What is the highest paid CNA state?
Alaska is one of the highest paying CNA states. California actually pays pretty low for CNAs.
What is the highest paid LPN/LVN State?
Alaska and California are the highest paying LPN states
What is the highest paying states for travel nurses?
California, Alaska, and Hawaii all pay the best for travel nurses. it also depends on which states has the highest need and if there is a strike.
How much do nurses make?
Nurses make about $77,460 on average per year. Nurses will probably see $4,000 average monthly after taxes, 401k and healthcare.
What is the highest paid nurse?
a CRNA makes the most amount of money
