Intro
Discover the top 5 high-paying RN jobs in Portland, Oregon, with salaries ranging from $90,000 to over $140,000. Explore in-demand nursing roles, such as ICU, OR, and ER nursing, and learn about the best hospitals and healthcare systems to work for in the city, including Providence and Kaiser Permanente.
Portland, Oregon, is a vibrant city known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a thriving healthcare industry. For registered nurses (RNs) looking to advance their careers and increase their earning potential, Portland offers a range of high-paying job opportunities. Here are five high-paying RN jobs in Portland, Oregon, along with their average salaries and growth prospects.

1. Travel Nurse
Travel nursing is a lucrative career option for RNs who enjoy exploring new places and experiencing different work environments. As a travel nurse in Portland, you can expect to earn an average salary of $110,000 per year, with some positions offering up to $140,000 or more. Travel nurses typically work short-term contracts, often ranging from 13 to 26 weeks, which can provide a great opportunity to gain diverse experience and build your professional network.
Benefits of Travel Nursing in Portland:
- Competitive pay rates
- Comprehensive benefits packages
- Opportunity to explore new cities and hospitals
- Professional growth and development

2. Pediatric ICU Nurse
Pediatric ICU nurses work in high-stress environments, caring for critically ill children and infants. In Portland, pediatric ICU nurses can earn an average salary of $105,000 per year, with some positions offering up to $125,000 or more. This role requires a high level of expertise, compassion, and communication skills, making it a rewarding and challenging career choice.
Benefits of Pediatric ICU Nursing in Portland:
- High earning potential
- Opportunity to work with a diverse patient population
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment
- Professional growth and development

3. Nurse Practitioner
Nurse practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses who provide primary and specialty care to patients. In Portland, NPs can earn an average salary of $120,000 per year, with some positions offering up to $150,000 or more. This role requires a master's degree in nursing and certification in a specific population focus area, such as pediatrics, gerontology, or family medicine.
Benefits of NP Practice in Portland:
- High earning potential
- Autonomy and independence in practice
- Opportunity to work in a variety of settings, including primary care, specialty care, and academia
- Professional growth and development

4. Operating Room Nurse
Operating room (OR) nurses work in high-stakes environments, providing critical care to patients undergoing surgery. In Portland, OR nurses can earn an average salary of $100,000 per year, with some positions offering up to $120,000 or more. This role requires attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to work well under pressure.
Benefits of OR Nursing in Portland:
- High earning potential
- Opportunity to work in a variety of surgical specialties
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment
- Professional growth and development

5. Informatics Nurse Specialist
Informatics nurse specialists design and implement healthcare technology solutions, working at the intersection of nursing and information technology. In Portland, informatics nurse specialists can earn an average salary of $110,000 per year, with some positions offering up to $130,000 or more. This role requires a strong foundation in nursing, as well as expertise in healthcare technology and data analysis.
Benefits of Informatics Nursing in Portland:
- High earning potential
- Opportunity to work on innovative projects and technologies
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment
- Professional growth and development

In conclusion, Portland, Oregon, offers a range of high-paying RN jobs, from travel nursing and pediatric ICU nursing to nurse practitioner practice and informatics nursing. Whether you're looking to advance your career, increase your earning potential, or explore new opportunities, Portland has something to offer.
What is the average salary for RNs in Portland, Oregon?
+The average salary for RNs in Portland, Oregon, varies depending on the specific job and industry. However, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for RNs in the Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA metropolitan area is around $90,000.
What are the top-paying RN jobs in Portland, Oregon?
+According to data from various sources, including the Bureau of Labor Statistics and online job postings, some of the top-paying RN jobs in Portland, Oregon, include travel nursing, pediatric ICU nursing, nurse practitioner practice, operating room nursing, and informatics nursing.
What are the requirements for becoming an RN in Oregon?
+To become an RN in Oregon, you must earn an Associate's degree in nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) from an accredited nursing program, pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), and obtain a license to practice from the Oregon State Board of Nursing.