Registered Nurses Salary Guide
📍 United States
Discover Registered Nurses salaries in 2026 — average pay, salary ranges by experience and location, and tips to negotiate your best offer.
Salary Range
Min
$80k
Median
$98k
Max
$112k
Annual base salary in USD
Registered Nurses Salary Overview
Registered Nursess are in consistent demand across the United States. The median annual salary for a Registered Nurses is approximately $97,550 in 2026, though earnings vary significantly by experience level, location, industry, and specialisation. Assess patient health problems and needs, develop and implement nursing care plans, and maintain medical records. Administer nursing care to ill, injured, convalescent, or disabled patients. May advise patients on health maintenance and disease prevention or provide case management. Licensing or reg.
Factors That Affect Registered Nurses Salary
- → Experience level — entry-level, mid-level, senior, and management roles
- → Industry and employer type — private sector, government, and non-profit
- → Proficiency in Speaking
- → Proficiency in Active Listening
- → Geographic location — major metropolitan areas typically pay above the national median
- → Educational background and relevant certifications
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Build Your Resume FreeRegistered Nurses Salary FAQs
What is the average Registered Nurses salary in 2026?
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The median Registered Nurses salary in the United States is approximately $97,550 in 2026. Entry-level positions typically start around $80,330, while experienced professionals can earn up to $112,350 or more depending on location, employer, and specialisation.
What factors affect Registered Nurses salary the most?
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The biggest drivers of Registered Nurses salary are experience level, geographic location, industry, and employer size. Major metro areas like New York, San Francisco, and Seattle typically pay 20–40% above the national median. Specialised certifications and in-demand technical skills also command significant premiums over the base median.
How do I negotiate a higher Registered Nurses salary?
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Research current market rates using sources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics, LinkedIn Salary, and Glassdoor before any offer discussion. Let the employer make the first offer when possible, then counter with data-backed justification. Always negotiate total compensation — benefits, bonuses, and flexibility — not just base salary.