Average Hourly Wage Of An Rn: Top 10 States Revealed

The nursing profession has been in high demand for years, and the trend is expected to continue. As a result, registered nurses (RNs) are among the highest-paid healthcare professionals in the United States. However, the average hourly wage of an RN can vary significantly depending on the state, employer, level of experience, and specialty. In this article, we will explore the top 10 states with the highest average hourly wages for RNs, along with some valuable insights into the factors that influence their salaries.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national average hourly wage for RNs in the United States was $43.29 as of May 2020. However, some states offer significantly higher wages, making them attractive options for RNs looking to relocate or advance their careers. Here are the top 10 states with the highest average hourly wages for RNs:

Top 10 States with the Highest Average Hourly Wages for RNs

California: $54.44 per hour

California is known for having some of the highest salaries for RNs in the country. The state's large population, high cost of living, and strict staffing ratios contribute to the high demand for skilled nurses. Cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego offer some of the highest wages, with average hourly rates ranging from $55 to $65.

Alaska: $52.84 per hour

Alaska is another state with a high average hourly wage for RNs. The state's remote location and harsh climate contribute to the high demand for skilled nurses, particularly in specialties like critical care and emergency nursing. Cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks offer some of the highest wages, with average hourly rates ranging from $50 to $60.

Hawaii: $52.44 per hour

Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches, tropical climate, and high cost of living. RNs in Hawaii can expect to earn some of the highest wages in the country, particularly in specialties like pediatrics and gerontology. Cities like Honolulu and Hilo offer some of the highest wages, with average hourly rates ranging from $50 to $60.

Massachusetts: $51.94 per hour

Massachusetts is home to some of the world's top-ranked hospitals and medical institutions, including Massachusetts General Hospital and Boston Children's Hospital. RNs in Massachusetts can expect to earn high wages, particularly in specialties like critical care and oncology. Cities like Boston and Cambridge offer some of the highest wages, with average hourly rates ranging from $50 to $60.

Oregon: $51.44 per hour

Oregon is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and high quality of life. RNs in Oregon can expect to earn high wages, particularly in specialties like pediatrics and mental health. Cities like Portland and Eugene offer some of the highest wages, with average hourly rates ranging from $45 to $55.

Washington: $50.94 per hour

Washington state is home to some of the world's top-ranked hospitals and medical institutions, including Seattle Children's Hospital and the University of Washington Medical Center. RNs in Washington can expect to earn high wages, particularly in specialties like critical care and oncology. Cities like Seattle and Tacoma offer some of the highest wages, with average hourly rates ranging from $45 to $55.

New Jersey: $50.44 per hour

New Jersey is a densely populated state with a high demand for skilled nurses. RNs in New Jersey can expect to earn high wages, particularly in specialties like critical care and emergency nursing. Cities like Newark and Jersey City offer some of the highest wages, with average hourly rates ranging from $45 to $55.

New York: $49.94 per hour

New York is home to some of the world's top-ranked hospitals and medical institutions, including NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital and Columbia University Medical Center. RNs in New York can expect to earn high wages, particularly in specialties like critical care and oncology. Cities like New York City and Buffalo offer some of the highest wages, with average hourly rates ranging from $40 to $50.

Connecticut: $49.44 per hour

Connecticut is a small but affluent state with a high demand for skilled nurses. RNs in Connecticut can expect to earn high wages, particularly in specialties like pediatrics and gerontology. Cities like Hartford and New Haven offer some of the highest wages, with average hourly rates ranging from $40 to $50.

Rhode Island: $48.94 per hour

Rhode Island is the smallest state in the country, but it offers some of the highest wages for RNs. Cities like Providence and Newport offer some of the highest wages, with average hourly rates ranging from $40 to $50.

Factors that Influence RN Salaries

While location is a significant factor in determining RN salaries, other factors can also influence earnings. Some of these factors include:

Level of experience: More experienced RNs can command higher salaries, particularly in specialties like critical care and oncology.
Specialty: RNs in high-demand specialties like critical care, emergency nursing, and pediatrics can earn higher salaries than those in lower-demand specialties.
Education: RNs with advanced degrees, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), can earn higher salaries than those with associate degrees or diplomas.
Certifications: RNs with specialized certifications, such as CCRN or CNOR, can earn higher salaries than those without certifications.
Employer: RNs working in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities can earn different salaries depending on the employer, location, and level of experience.

Conclusion

The average hourly wage of an RN can vary significantly depending on the state, employer, level of experience, and specialty. While California, Alaska, and Hawaii offer some of the highest wages, other states like Massachusetts, Oregon, and Washington also offer competitive salaries. RNs looking to relocate or advance their careers should consider factors like level of experience, specialty, education, and certifications to maximize their earning potential.

What is the national average hourly wage for RNs in the United States?

The national average hourly wage for RNs in the United States was $43.29 as of May 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

What state offers the highest average hourly wage for RNs?

California offers the highest average hourly wage for RNs, with an average hourly rate of $54.44.

What factors can influence RN salaries?

Factors that can influence RN salaries include level of experience, specialty, education, certifications, and employer.

Can RNs earn higher salaries in certain specialties?

Yes, RNs in high-demand specialties like critical care, emergency nursing, and pediatrics can earn higher salaries than those in lower-demand specialties.

How can RNs maximize their earning potential?

RNs can maximize their earning potential by gaining experience, specializing in high-demand areas, pursuing advanced education and certifications, and working for top employers.