Best States for Registered Nurses (Highest Paying)
Where you work changes registered nurse pay more than almost any other factor. California leads at $124,000 — roughly 44% above the national median of $86,000.
Top 10 highest paying states
Ranked by median annual salary for registered nurses:
- 1. California — $124,000 median
- 2. New York — $98,000 median
- 3. Texas — $86,000 median
- 4. Illinois — $82,000 median
- 5. Pennsylvania — $80,000 median
- 6. Michigan — $78,000 median
- 7. Florida — $77,000 median
- 8. Ohio — $76,000 median
- 9. Georgia — $76,000 median
- 10. North Carolina — $75,000 median
Why pay varies so much by state
Three things drive the spread: local demand, licensing rules and cost of labor. States with strict licensing and high demand tend to pay a premium because the supply of qualified workers is limited.
Metro areas inside a state can differ by another 15–25%, so treat state medians as a starting point rather than a guarantee.
Salary versus cost of living
High-paying coastal states usually carry high housing costs. A $124,000 salary in California can leave you with less disposable income than a mid-tier state paying $90,300.
Run the numbers on rent, state income tax and commute before you decide to relocate.
Frequently asked questions
Which state pays registered nurses the most?
California, with a median salary of $124,000 per year.
What is the average registered nurse salary in the US?
The national median is $86,000 per year.
See full registered nurse salary data
Compare pay by state and experience level with our registered nurse salary page or the salary calculator.