Registered Nurse Salary 2025: Median $97,550, Top Earners Make $137,470
The median Registered Nurse in the U.S. earns $97,550 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' latest data. That breaks down to roughly $47 an hour. The top 10% of RNs bring home over $137,470, while the bottom 10% start around $68,940. With more than 3.3 million RNs employed nationwide, nursing remains the largest healthcare occupation.
How much Registered Nurses earn
The BLS reports the mean annual wage for RNs is $101,420, or about $47 per hour. Pay scales with experience, specialty, and location. Entry-level RNs (10th percentile) earn $68,940, while the most experienced (90th percentile) earn $137,470. Overtime and shift differentials can push earnings higher, especially in hospitals.
Pay by state
California tops the list with an average RN salary of $140,270. Other high-paying states include Hawaii ($136,320), Oregon ($129,010), Washington ($124,200), and Alaska ($109,480). On the lower end, South Dakota ($78,060), Mississippi ($77,090), and Alabama ($77,080) pay the least. Cost of living explains some—but not all—of the gap.
How to become Registered Nurse
The most common path is an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). ADN programs take about two years; BSN programs take four. Both require passing the NCLEX-RN to get licensed. Many employers now prefer or require a BSN. After licensing, RNs can work in hospitals, clinics, and other settings. Some pursue advanced degrees or certifications later.
- Earn an ADN or BSN from an accredited program.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Apply for state licensure.
- Find entry-level nursing roles (hospitals, long-term care, etc.).
- Consider a BSN if you don't already have one.
Job outlook
Employment of RNs is projected to grow 4.9% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 189,100 openings each year, mostly to replace retiring nurses and meet demand from an aging population. The BLS expects 3,379,720 RN jobs in 2024, with steady demand across all states.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a Registered Nurse in 2025?
The average (mean) salary is $101,420 per year. The median, a better measure of typical pay, is $97,550.
What state pays Registered Nurses the most?
California, with an average annual wage of $140,270.
What education do I need to become an RN?
You need either an Associate Degree in Nursing (2 years) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (4 years), followed by passing the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.
Is nursing a growing career?
Yes. Employment is projected to grow 4.9% over the next decade, with about 189,100 openings per year.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Registered Nurses data.