Average Nurse Salary in the US in 2026

Average Nurse Salary in the US in 2026

Registered nurses (RNs) across the US earn salaries influenced by diverse variables. According to data collected in 2026, the median annual wage for RNs typically falls between $78,000 and $90,000. Entry-level nurses generally receive salaries near the lower end of the spectrum, while those with advanced experience or certifications may earn considerably higher wages. These figures usually reflect base pay and exclude additional compensations such as overtime, shift differentials, and bonuses often found in healthcare settings.

Factors Affecting Nurse Salaries

Geographic Location

The state and metropolitan area where a nurse works strongly impact earnings. Urban centers and states with higher costs of living often offer increased wages to compensate. For example, states like California, New York, and Massachusetts generally report higher average salaries compared to rural or lower-cost regions. Variations can also occur between different hospital systems and healthcare facilities within the same location.

Education and Credentials

Nurses with higher educational qualifications commonly earn more. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree might yield a higher salary compared to an associate degree. Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), such as nurse practitioners or nurse anesthetists, typically earn salaries well above the RN median due to their extended training and scope of practice.

Experience and Specialty Area

Experience level is another significant determinant of compensation. Nurses with many years of practice generally command higher wages. Additionally, specialization in certain clinical areas—such as intensive care, emergency nursing, or oncology—can influence salary. Specialized skills often require additional certifications, which have an associated impact on pay scales.

Employer Type

Salaries may differ depending on the employing organization. Nurses employed in hospitals tend to have different pay ranges compared to those working in outpatient care centers, nursing homes, or government agencies. Nonprofit and public sector employers sometimes offer different benefits and compensation structures than private healthcare providers.

Regional Salary Differences

West Coast

States along the West Coast, such as California, Oregon, and Washington, typically offer higher nurse salaries due to elevated living costs and healthcare demand. For instance, California RNs may earn a median salary exceeding $95,000 annually.

Northeast

The Northeast, including New York, Massachusetts, and New Jersey, is another region with above-average nurse wages. Urban and suburban areas in this region reflect competitive salaries aligned with complex healthcare markets.

Midwest and South

Midwestern and Southern states often report somewhat lower average salaries for nurses, but these incomes may be balanced by lower costs of living. States like Ohio, Texas, and Florida tend to offer median salaries in the $70,000 to $85,000 range for registered nurses.

Employment Outlook and Trends

The demand for qualified nurses remains strong due to an aging population and expanding healthcare needs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for registered nurses is projected to grow steadily through the mid-2020s. This demand may contribute to upward pressure on salaries, particularly in regions facing nursing shortages.

Technological advancements and increased use of electronic health records also influence nursing practice and roles. Nurses with proficiency in healthcare technologies may find emerging opportunities that affect compensation structures.

Typical Costs in United States (2026)

When considering the nurse profession in the United States in 2026, typical salary ranges include:

• Basic level: Around $60,000 to $75,000 annually – generally includes entry-level positions and nurses working in areas with lower cost of living or less demand.
• Standard level: Approximately $75,000 to $95,000 annually – most common range for experienced registered nurses across many states and hospital settings.
• Premium level: Typically $95,000 to $130,000 annually – includes nurses with advanced certifications, specialized clinical expertise, or employment in high-demand metropolitan regions.

Conclusion

Nurse salaries in the United States during 2026 reflect a range of factors including geographic region, experience, education, and employer type. Understanding these influences allows for a comprehensive view of compensation trends within the nursing field. Continued growth in nursing demand may further impact salary levels across the country.