Introduction
Registered nurses (RNs) provide essential healthcare services to people of all ages. As such, they are in high demand and can expect to receive a competitive salary for their work. But just how much do registered nurses make? This article will provide a comprehensive guide to RN salaries, including a look at the average salary for RNs across the country, the impact of factors like education and experience on earnings potential, and comparisons of RN salaries by state.
A Comprehensive Guide to Registered Nurse Salaries
How Much Does a Registered Nurse Make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), registered nurses made an average annual salary of $75,510 in 2019. The lowest 10 percent earned an average annual salary of $54,720, while the highest 10 percent earned an average of $109,820.1
A Comparison of Average Registered Nurse Salaries Across the Country
When looking at average RN salaries across the country, there is significant variation. The states with the highest average salaries for RNs in 2019 were California ($103,950), Hawaii ($101,600), Massachusetts ($98,400), Oregon ($96,170), and Alaska ($95,850).2 On the other hand, the states with the lowest average salaries for RNs were South Dakota ($58,040), Mississippi ($60,000), Montana ($61,470), North Dakota ($62,490), and Arkansas ($64,240).3
Exploring the Factors That Impact Registered Nurse Salaries
Earnings Potential: What Registered Nurses Can Expect to Make
The amount of money that a registered nurse can expect to make varies significantly depending on a number of factors, including the type of nursing job they have, the region they work in, and their level of education and experience. For example, a nurse who works in a hospital setting may make more than a nurse who works in a doctor’s office or long-term care facility. Additionally, nurses who have obtained higher levels of education, such as a master’s degree, will typically earn more than those with only a bachelor’s degree. Finally, nurses with more experience will generally make more money than those who are just starting out.
Registered Nursing Salaries by State
As mentioned above, there is significant variation in the average salaries of registered nurses from state to state. According to one study, the states with the highest average salaries for registered nurses in 2019 were California ($105,950), Hawaii ($102,770), Massachusetts ($98,400), Oregon ($97,280), and Alaska ($94,350).4 Meanwhile, the states with the lowest average salaries for RNs were South Dakota ($56,630), Mississippi ($58,700), Montana ($60,360), North Dakota ($62,380), and Arkansas ($63,020).5
The Impact of Education and Experience on RN Salaries
In addition to geographical location, the level of education and experience of the nurse can also play a role in determining the amount of money they make. According to the BLS, RNs with advanced degrees, such as master’s degrees, typically earn more than those with only a bachelor’s degree.6 Likewise, nurses with more experience will generally make more money than those who are just starting out.
Conclusion
Registered nurses provide essential healthcare services to people of all ages, and they can expect to receive a competitive salary for their work. The average annual salary for RNs in the US is $75,510, but this can vary significantly depending on factors like geographical location, education, and experience. The states with the highest average salaries for RNs in 2019 were California ($103,950), Hawaii ($101,600), Massachusetts ($98,400), Oregon ($96,170), and Alaska ($95,850). Meanwhile, the states with the lowest average salaries for RNs were South Dakota ($58,040), Mississippi ($60,000), Montana ($61,470), North Dakota ($62,490), and Arkansas ($64,240). Additionally, nurses with higher levels of education and experience will typically earn more than those with less experience or education.
Overall, registered nurses can expect to receive a competitive salary for their work, though the exact amount will depend on a variety of factors. By understanding the factors that go into determining RN salaries, nurses can be better informed about what to expect when it comes to their own earnings.
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