Intro
Discover the top 5 highest paying states for ER nurse salaries. Learn about the average ER nurse salary, factors influencing pay, and the best states to work in, including California, Massachusetts, and New Jersey. Get insights into emergency nursing salaries, job outlook, and required skills to excel in this in-demand field.
As a nurse, working in the emergency room (ER) can be a challenging yet rewarding career path. ER nurses play a critical role in providing life-saving care to patients in emergency situations. With the increasing demand for healthcare services, the salary for ER nurses has been on the rise. In this article, we will explore the average ER nurse salary, the top 5 highest paying states, and the factors that influence salaries.

The average ER nurse salary varies depending on factors such as location, experience, and education level. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for registered nurses (RNs) in the United States was $76,840 in May 2020. However, salaries for ER nurses can range from $60,000 to over $100,000 per year, depending on the specific employer and location.
Top 5 Highest Paying States for ER Nurses
Based on data from the BLS and online job postings, the following are the top 5 highest paying states for ER nurses:
1. California
California is known for having some of the highest salaries for ER nurses in the country. The average salary for ER nurses in California is around $113,000 per year, with some hospitals paying up to $140,000 per year. Cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles tend to have higher salaries due to the high cost of living.

2. Alaska
Alaska is a close second when it comes to ER nurse salaries. The average salary for ER nurses in Alaska is around $108,000 per year, with some hospitals paying up to $130,000 per year. The remote location and harsh weather conditions may contribute to the higher salaries.

3. Hawaii
Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches and high cost of living, which may contribute to the higher salaries for ER nurses. The average salary for ER nurses in Hawaii is around $105,000 per year, with some hospitals paying up to $125,000 per year.

4. Oregon
Oregon is another state with high salaries for ER nurses. The average salary for ER nurses in Oregon is around $102,000 per year, with some hospitals paying up to $120,000 per year. Cities like Portland tend to have higher salaries due to the high cost of living.

5. Washington
Washington state rounds out the top 5 highest paying states for ER nurses. The average salary for ER nurses in Washington is around $100,000 per year, with some hospitals paying up to $115,000 per year. Cities like Seattle tend to have higher salaries due to the high cost of living.

Factors That Influence ER Nurse Salaries
Several factors can influence ER nurse salaries, including:
- Location: Salaries can vary significantly depending on the location. Cities with a high cost of living tend to have higher salaries.
- Experience: More experienced ER nurses tend to earn higher salaries.
- Education level: ER nurses with advanced degrees, such as a Master's or Doctorate, may earn higher salaries.
- Employer: Salaries can vary depending on the employer, with hospitals and healthcare systems tend to pay more than clinics or private practices.
- Certifications: ER nurses with specialized certifications, such as CEN or CPEN, may earn higher salaries.
Conclusion
ER nurse salaries can vary significantly depending on the location, experience, and education level. The top 5 highest paying states for ER nurses are California, Alaska, Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington. Understanding the factors that influence ER nurse salaries can help nurses make informed decisions about their careers and negotiate for higher salaries.
What is the average salary for ER nurses in the United States?
+The average salary for ER nurses in the United States is around $76,840 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What is the highest paying state for ER nurses?
+California is the highest paying state for ER nurses, with an average salary of around $113,000 per year.
What factors influence ER nurse salaries?
+Factors that influence ER nurse salaries include location, experience, education level, employer, and certifications.
We hope this article has provided valuable information about ER nurse salaries. If you have any further questions or would like to share your own experiences, please leave a comment below.