Highest Paying Nursing Careers
The highest paying nursing careers include nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, and also nurse anesthesiologists. Nursing has traditionally been seen as a woman’s job, and like many such careers, pay for nurses has not always been high. That is changing today, as nurses take on more advanced roles once held by physicians. The highest paying nursing jobs center on specializations like Pediatrics, Certified Midwifery, Psychiatry/Mental Health, Gerontology, and Critical Care. Many of the highest paying nurse jobs, such as Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, or Nurse Administrator, require a Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). The best nursing jobs require an advanced graduate-level degree and additional licensure, as well as the best nursing certifications.
While there is unlimited potential in diversification and specialization, the good news is that Nursing offers one of the most consistently in-demand and growing career trajectories available. Not only is there virtually unlimited room for growth and advancement, but the income potential and job security factors are solid. Nurses can and do travel, work in the fields that mean the most to them, meet new people and network to advance career objectives.
Ranking the Highest-Paying Nursing Careers
Because salary expectations vary so widely, it’s hard to accurately rank nursing careers. There are many variables – region, city, education, experience – but to rank the highest-paying nursing careers, we took average salaries from reputable sources including Payscale, Glassdoor, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Jobs are presented in order of highest salary to lowest.
1. Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
When you are looking into the highest-paying nursing careers, you want to consider a neonatal nurse practitioner role. The job responsibilities of a neonatal nurse practitioner focus on providing care and treatment to newborn infants. They may handle a variety of health concerns that impact newborn babies that range from congenital heart conditions to low birth weight and premature birth. The educational standards that apply to a neonatal nurse practitioner are high. The nurse must obtain a master’s in nursing with a concentration in neonatology. They must also finish a two-year advanced practice neonatal nursing program and obtain a license as a nurse practitioner.
The income level for a neonatal nurse practitioner is relatively high in comparison to other roles. The position requires a high level of education, so the salary range reflects the specialized training. The salary range for the role is between $79,000 and $124,000 per year. The average income for the position is roughly $105,300 with a median salary of around $99,000 per year.
Average Salary: $105,000
2. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A psychiatric nurse practitioner works in the mental health field and focuses on providing the care patient’s need to address conditions like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. The nurse may work with a psychiatrist to provide care to patients. The position requires a master’s degree in nursing with a specialization in psychiatry. Nurses must obtain a license as a nurse practitioner and a certification in nursing psychiatry.
The average salary for a psychiatric nurse practitioner is $103,400 per year. The salary range for the position is between $82,000 and $137,000 per year. Nurses can expect to earn more as they gain experience in their field and improve their qualifications. Salary may vary based on the state and locality.
Average Salary: $103,400
3. Oncology Nurse Practitioner
An oncology nurse practitioner works with patients at every age who are going through cancer treatments and care. They assist medical doctors with cancer treatments and may focus on identifying and addressing concerns that arise during cancer treatment. They may also provide medications or assist with the use of treatments in various settings. The educational standards for an oncology nurse practitioner vary based on the goals of the nurse. Generally, a nurse must have a master’s degree in nursing with a concentration in oncology; however, some roles may require a doctoral degree. Research positions often require a doctorate. Nurses may also obtain certification.
The average salary for an oncology nurse practitioner is roughly $101,000 per year. The salary range is between $85,000 and $124,000 per year. Exact salary ranges may vary slightly based on whether a nurse pursues clinical or research positions. It may also vary based on location and experience.
Average Salary: $101,000
4. Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner
An orthopedic nurse practitioner is a professional who focuses on the musculoskeletal system. The specialized area of nursing addresses diseases or conditions that may impact the muscles or the skeleton of the patient. They may treat deformations, illnesses, injuries, or genetic conditions that impact the muscles, skeleton, ligaments or tendons of the body. An orthopedic nurse practitioner must obtain a master’s degree in nursing and their license as a nurse practitioner before moving forward with their career. After gaining two years of experience as a nurse, it is possible to obtain certification for the specialized role and start working as an orthopedic nurse practitioner. We consider the Stealth Belt Pro our go-to ileostomy belt guard. This belt is designed to support and conceal your ostomy appliance while providing all-day comfort. Available in horizontal and vertical options, this
Salary potential for an orthopedic nurse practitioner depends on education levels and their experience. The average salary is around $100,000 per year. The salary range is between $76,000 and $134,000 per year. The salary range may vary based on the state and a nurse’s experience.
Average Salary: $100,000
5. Cardiac Vascular Nurse Practitioner
A cardiac vascular nurse practitioner works with cardiologists to provide patients with treatment for heart conditions. The nurse practitioner may focus on specialized aspects of heart health and work in a lab environment or a clinical environment. They help medical doctors with patient care and may provide rehabilitative treatments for patients after a heart attack or related heart condition. The position requires a master’s degree or higher, as well as a license to practice. Some positions may also require additional certification, though exact standards may vary slightly for each medical facility. You can find out more about heart conditions here.
The salary expectations for a cardiac vascular nurse practitioner are higher than average for many nursing roles. You can expect to make between $85,000 and $121,000 per year. The average salary is around $99,000 per year for professionals working in a clinical or surgical setting. Keep in mind that your salary may change over time as you gain experience.
Average Salary: $99,000
6. Neuroscience Nurse
A neuroscience nurse works with medical doctors to treat conditions or disorders associated with the nervous system. They may work with patients who have epilepsy, spinal cord injuries, or Parkinson’s Disease. In some situations, they also work in rehabilitation to help patients who have had a stroke or severe injuries. The educational standards for a neuroscience nurse depend on an employer’s standards. In most cases, nurses need a bachelor’s degree and a license to practice nursing. Some employers may also require certification in neuroscience nursing.
The income levels for a neuroscience nurse depend on educational levels and an employer’s standards. The salary range for the role is between $71,000 and $125,000 per year. You can expect to make a reasonable income as you gain experience and continue working on your education. Nurses who obtain a master’s degree can expect a higher salary.
Average Salary: $98,000
7. Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
Gerontological nurse practitionerswork directly with adult patients from adolescents until old age. They are professionals who take on a role similar to a medical doctor and have the ability to prescribe medications, order tests, and provide care to patients based on their health and needs. They may work in a variety of settings that range from medical facilities and private practice offices to hospitals. The role of a gerontological nurse practitioner requires a minimum of a master’s degree in nursing and certification as a nurse practitioner.
Salary potential for a gerontological nurse practitioner varies widely based on location. The average salary is around $95,400 per year nationwide. The salary range is between $80,000 and $119,000 per year. Nurses can expect some variation due to the differences in states and localities, as well as variation based on experience as a nurse.
Average Salary: $95,400
8. Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioner
A dermatology certified nurse practitioner provides skincare treatments to patients based on their needs. The position may focus on identifying and treating skin cancer, injuries to the skin, skin diseases, or other concerns that may impact the skin. The nurse may work with patients before or after operations or assist with cosmetic procedures. The cosmetic procedure consists of more process like eye bag reduction, anti-wrinkle treatment, Nose Filler, Lip augmentation, Breast augmentation, etc. They are given special training for the surgery to make sure they assist in the procedure properly. The educational standards for the position start with an undergraduate degree and licensing. A nurse can start working under the supervision of a dermatologist while working on a master’s in nursing to become a nurse practitioner. The final step is certification in dermatology to gain specialized training in skin-related healthcare.
The potential salary for a dermatology certified nurse practitioner is high. The average salary is around $95,000 per year. The salary range is between $75,000 and $125,000 per year. Salary potential increases as nurses obtain certification and add to their credentials with continuing education. You may also increase your salary over time as you gain experience in dermatological treatments and patient care.
Average Salary: $95,000
9. Women’s Health Nurse
A women’s health nurse works on conditions that impact the health and well-being of women. They specialize in treatments that may relate to female reproductive organs, family planning, and prenatal care. They also help women through childbirth and postpartum care. The position requires a master’s degree or higher, as well as a license as a nurse practitioner and certification. Nurses may provide care to patients without the supervision of a doctor in some states.
A women’s health nurse can expect an average salary of roughly $90,000 per year. The salary range is around $71,000 and $111,000 per year. Nurses should expect some variation in salary based on their location and level of education. Nurses with a doctorate can expect to earn more when compared to nurses with a master’s degree.
Average Salary: $90,000
10. Gastroenterology Nurse
A gastroenterology nurse is a specialized position that focuses on the gastrointestinal or GI tract. The nurses provide treatment to patients who may have health concerns related to their stomach and intestinal tract that range from cancers and Crohn’s Disease to more common concerns like allergies and acid reflux. They assist doctors with treatment and provide basic care to patients during recovery from treatment. The educational standards for the role are simple. A nurse must have a bachelor’s degree and a license. Many medical facilities will hire a nurse without certification; however, a professional can also obtain certification to enhance personal qualifications.
The salary potential for a gastroenterology nurse may vary slightly based on whether a nurse obtains certification or starts working without the additional training. A certified professional can expect to earn between $79,000 and $100,000 per year. Salary may be slightly lower for professionals who do not obtain certification. It is possible to enhance and increase salary potential with additional training and education, as well as experience.
Average Salary: $89,500
11. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Pediatric nurse practitionersplay a critical role in the care of infants and young children. They specialize in treating children from birth until they are young adults. The focus of treatment is preventative care and the management of acute or chronic conditions that develop as a child grows. Pediatric nurse practitioners must obtain a master’s degree or a doctorate in nursing with a concentration in pediatrics. They must obtain a license as a nurse practitioner and a certification in pediatric nursing.
Salary potential for a pediatric nurse practitioner differs based on education level and location. The average salary for the nursing position is roughly $88,500 per year. The salary range for the position is between $71,000 and $111,000 per year. Nurse practitioners with a doctorate may obtain a higher salary due to their qualifications.
Average Salary: $88,500
12. Nurse Executive
A nurse executive is an advanced leadership role in any medical facility and it focuses on organization, communication, and leadership. In some medical facilities, a nurse may obtain the title of Director of Nursing due to the focus on leadership. It is the highest level of leadership available to nurses in any medical setting. The position requires a master’s degree in nursing with a concentration on executive nurse leadership. It also requires a nurse to have a license to practice nursing and certification in executive nursing practice.
Nurse executives are leaders in a medical facility and can expect a reasonable salary due to their specialized skills and their role in a medical facility. The salary range for the position is between $70,000 and $100,000 per year. Exact salary expectations can vary based on locality, the size of the medical facility, and the experience of a nurse executive.
Average Salary: $85,000
13. Certified Nurse Anesthetist
Acertified nurse anesthetist plays a critical role in surgery and medical treatments. The nurse is responsible for administering anesthesia to patients before a surgical procedure and ensuring the safety of patients in relation to anesthesia. They may also focus on pain relief for patients during recovery or before treatment begins. The educational standards set for a certified nurse anesthetist begin with their nursing degree. You must have a master’s degree in nursing and a license to practice. After completing a master’s degree, a nurse must obtain certification as an anesthetist. A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the area below the belly button and above the pubic region. At the same time, this procedure utilizes techniques to repair and strengthen the muscles underneath in order to tighten the remaining skin. Here you can find tummy tuck doctor around me.
The salary expectations for a nurse anesthetist range from $56,000 to $91,000 per year. The average salary for the position is around $75,000 per year. You can expect some variation in salary potential based on your location and experience. Some medical facilities may offer higher salaries due to the high demand for services, so nurses should evaluate the location and potential of a position when obtaining a job as an anesthetist.
Average Salary: $75,000
14. Informatics Nurse
Advances in technology impact the role of nursing and an informatics nurse takes on the challenges of handling technological factors in nursing. They use information sciences and computers to compile and maintain data about patient health and medical systems. The goal of the role focuses on improving patient care and outcomes by incorporating technological tools and keeping up with advances in medical technology. Educational standards for the role require a master’s degree in nursing and additional training in informatics. Nurses must also obtain certification in informatics to start working in technical support roles as a nurse.
Salary potential as an informatics nurse is high when compared to other roles in nursing. The high demand for the position contributes to the salary potential, as well as the high requirements for education. The average salary for the role is around $75,000 per year. The range of salary is between $56,300 and $97,400 per year. States may offer variable income rates, so exact salaries may differ based on your locality.
Average Salary: $75,000
15. Certified Nephrology Nurse/NP
A certified nephrology nurse working as a nurse practitioner offers treatment to patients who have kidney-related health conditions. The nurses may assist medical doctors with treatments related to kidney disease or health concerns related to the kidneys. They may also perform dialysis and assist patients in a medical facility or their home. The educational standards for a certified nephrology nurse working as a nurse practitioner focus on developing specialized skills. Generally, a nurse practitioner has a master’s degree in nursing. A certified nurse in nephrology also obtains certification in the specialized skill as part of his or her training.
A certified nephrology nurse is among the highest paying nursing careers. The average salary for nurses working in nephrology is roughly $74,000 per year. Since nurses can start working in the field with a bachelor’s degree to gain experience before becoming a nurse practitioner, income levels may increase over time with a higher level of education and more experience. A nurse may also take on leadership roles and management positions to increase his or her salary over time.
Average Salary: $74,000
16. Dialysis Nurse (Advanced Diabetes Management)
A dialysis nurse who specializes in advanced diabetes management and care focuses on providing the treatment that diabetic patients need for their long-term health. The nurse may work with a nephrology nurse practitioner to handle dialysis and medical treatments for kidney-related health conditions. They also work with diabetic patients to address underlying health concerns that may apply to the needs of patients with diabetes. The educational standards for the nurse focus on an undergraduate degree in nursing and licensing. After completing the degree, a nurse is able to focus on certification and learn specialized skills that focus on diabetes management education and intervention.
A dialysis nurse focusing on diabetes management has a reasonable salary for their level of education. The salary range for the role is between $54,500 and $86,600 per year. The median salary falls in the middle at roughly $72,000 per year. You can expect some variation in salary potential based on your level of education, location, and experience. Nurses who obtain a master’s degree may earn more when compared to nurses who obtain a bachelor’s degree.
How Much Does a Dialysis Nurse Make?
Average Salary: $72,000
17. Occupational Health Nurse Practitioner
An occupational health nurse practitioner focuses on limiting the health risks associated with workplace environments. They may work in companies and settings where employees have a high risk of exposure to toxic materials, heavy machinery accidents, or other situations that may lead to injuries. The position focuses on helping employers set up reasonable safety procedures and standards for their employees, and identifying risk factors that may cause harm to potential employees. The position requires a master’s degree in nursing and certification in occupational health nursing.
Since occupational health nurse practitioners may work with private companies and corporations, salary potential varies significantly based on the needs of the company. The average salary for the role is around $70,500 per year. The salary range for occupational health nurse practitioners is between $53,000 and $89,000 per year. You can expect some variation based on your experience and location.
Average Salary: $70,500
18. Plastic/Reconstructive Surgery Nurse
Nurses who work with plastic surgeons or reconstructive surgeons focus on cosmetic procedures for patients. They may work with a surgeon to provide invasive treatments like surgery, laser treatments, or injections. They may also provide non-invasive treatments like microdermabrasion and chemical peels. Their specific responsibilities depend on the medical facility and the surgeon’s focus on treatment. A reconstructive surgery nurse must obtain an associate’s degree or higher, as well as a license. Some facilities may require a bachelor’s degree and certification in plastic surgery nursing.
The average salary for a plastic surgery nurse is roughly $69,200 per year. The salary range for the position is between $47,000 and $91,000 per year. Nurses with a higher level of education can expect to earn more when compared to nurses with an associate’s degree.
Average Salary: $69,200
19. Case Management Nurse
A case management nurse plays an important role in patient interaction with a medical facility. The role of a case management nurse is to use resources and services in a way that is fiscally responsible and ensures that a patient’s healthcare needs are met. You may work with insurance providers, physicians, and others in the medical field to provide quality care. In general, a case management nurse must have a degree in nursing and a license to practice. A bachelor’s degree is common for the role. Certification may also help with the position, but it is not necessary for all facilities.
The salary potential for a case management nurse ranges from roughly $48,000 to $83,000 per year. The average salary for the position is around $64,000 per year. You can expect some variations in the salary potential based on your location. As you gain experience, you may notice that you earn more in your role as a case management nurse.
Average Salary: $64,000
20. Medical-Surgical Nurse
A medical-surgical nurse takes on an important role in the operating room during surgical procedures. The nurse works with a surgeon to address the needs of patients who may have rapid deterioration of their health due to injuries and ailments. They work in a fast-paced environment and may play a critical role in identifying and addressing emergency situations. The position requires nurses to obtain an associate’s degree or higher. In many facilities, a nurse must have a bachelor’s degree. After an internship with a medical-surgical team, a nurse may take on a role as a professional. Certification is available to nurses after two years of work experience.
The average salary for a medical-surgical nurse is around $62,500 per year. Since the position does allow nurses with an associate’s degree to take on the role in some states and localities, the range of incomes is variable. Medical-surgical nurses can earn between $36,500 and $92,300 per year. Obtaining certification and a bachelor’s degree will increase salary potential.
Average Salary: $62,500
21. Genetic Nurse
A genetic nurse is among the highest paying nursing careers due to the complexity of the role. The nurse works with medical doctors to treat patients who have genetic health conditions or have a condition that has a genetic component that complicates treatment. The nurse may assess the role of genetics in a health condition and discuss the potential risk factors with a patient or a patient’s family. The role may also offer opportunities in research positions. Nurses who want to work as a genetic nurse must obtain a master’s in nursing with a focus on genetic nursing. After gaining experience as a nurse, professionals may also qualify for advanced genetic nursing certification that allows them to take on complex roles in research or medical treatment.
A genetic nurse can expect a reasonable salary due to the high level of education and specialized training. The average salary for a genetic nurse is around $62,400 per year. The salary range for the position is between $43,400 and $92,200 per year. Nurses can expect to increase their income when obtaining certification or taking on a leadership role.
Average Salary: $62,400
22. Emergency Room Nurse
An emergency room nurse is a professional who works in the fast-paced environment of an emergency room. They take on the challenges of working with patients in emergency situations who may be experiencing traumatic injuries and high-risk health concerns. An emergency room nurse must act quickly to handle the needs of patients and make decisions at a fast pace to address potential health risks. The educational requirements for an emergency room nurse may vary slightly based on the state and locality; however, most hospitals prefer to hire nurses with a bachelor’s degree in nursing. The hospital provides further training after a nurse obtains a license. Nurses can obtain further certification if they plan to continue working in an emergency room setting or want to enhance their skills.
Income levels for an emergency room nurse may vary widely due to the educational standards for the role. Hospitals may hire nurses with an associate’s degree as well as a bachelor’s degree in certain circumstances, so exact salary potential differs for nurses. The salary range for an emergency room nurse is between $46,700 and $92,800 per year. The average salary for the position is roughly $62,000 per year. Nurses can expect to increase their salary as they gain experience or work on obtaining a higher level of education.
Average Salary: $62,000
23. Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse
When you are looking into the highest paying nursing careers, you want to consider working as a palliative nurse. The role of a palliative nurse with an advanced certification focuses on providing pain relief and quality care to individuals who are terminally ill. The goal of your role as an advanced certified hospice and palliative nurse is to relieve suffering until a patient passes away. After that point, you may spend time with the family of a patient offering bereavement and grief-related services. As a general rule, the role requires a bachelor’s degree in nursing as well as a nursing license and certification for the role.
Income levels for an advanced certified hospice and palliative nurse vary based on your level of experience, location, and education level. The average income for the role is around $61,000 per year. The salary range for the nursing position is between roughly $48,500 and $81,500 per year. You can expect some variation in your actual income as you gain experience in your field.
Average Salary: $61,000
24. Pain Management Nurse
A pain management nurse works directly with patients who have chronic or acute pain. They specialize in pain management and may work with patients who have debilitating pain conditions. They may provide treatments that include the use of addictive pain medications, so they take measures to limit the risk of addiction or dependence while treating a patient. They may also use alternative treatments for pain like massage therapy or acupuncture. Nurses must obtain an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree and a license for the position. Many employers require a bachelor’s degree. After gaining experience as a registered nurse, it is possible to obtain certification for pain management nursing.
The average salary for a pain management nurse is roughly $60,000 per year. The salary range is between $28,000 and $78,000 per year. Nurses who obtain a higher level of education may also increase their salary potential to $101,000 per year. The exact income level depends on a nurse’s level of education and experience, as well as the locality.
Average Salary: $60,000
25. Advanced Public Health Nurse Practitioner
An advanced public health nurse practitioner is among the highest-paying nursing careers for professionals in the medical field. The job responsibilities associated with the position focus on helping local communities learn about diseases and the prevention of diseases. Depending on their specific role with a medical facility, a public health nurse practitioner may work with children to teach them ways to prevent the spread of lice or colds.
They may also work with older adults to deal with age-related conditions or with women during pregnancy to teach ways to manage labor pain and the challenges associated with pregnancy. As a general role, a nurse practitioner in public health must obtain a master’s degree or higher. Nurses can combine a master of nursing with a master of public health to gain specialized training for their careers.
The salary expectations associated with an advanced public health nurse practitioner role range from $40,000 to $75,000 per year. The average salary varies based on the state and locality, as well as a nurse’s job experience. You can expect your salary to change over time as you gain experience as a nurse practitioner.
Average Salary: $57,500
How Do I Make More Money as a Nurse?
When candidates ask how to make more money in a career, the initial go-to answer is usually related to getting a degree or further education. In Nursing, education has direct correlation with income potential. Nurses are in high demand, which means that an RN makes an average of $71,000 every year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). With the need for nurses estimated to grow by 12% by 2026, the Master’s of Science in Nursing degree, particularly with specializations and certifications opens up career potential, mobility, and income potential.
Candidates can also use their education, certifications, and licensure as a stepping-off point for networking opportunities. That background and high level of experience is the preparatory field for movement into areas of greater responsibility within the current job-organization structure, but for cross-industry and multi-faceted career opportunities. Growth in income potential can involve moving into management or supervisory positions, or just rethinking and re-imagining the roles and responsibilities that were previously relegated to the Nursing field.
Why Do Nurse Practitioners Make So Much Money?
With a Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN), as well as an RN license, a Nurse Practitioner is able to tap into a level on par with physicians, with autonomy that allows the nurse to provide primary health care services to patients. A Nurse Practitioner generally has oversight for exams, diagnosis, record-keeping, testing, and other specialty nursing services. If you’re wondering about what kind of nurse makes the most money, it’s the NPs who focus on specialized areas. Beyond the General Nursing, Psychiatric, Family Medicine, and Gerontological specializations, the highest paying Nurse Practitioner jobs include areas of Anesthesiology, Pain Management, Critical Care, Education, and Administration.
Why is Nursing Specialization So Important?
The Nurse types and salary breakdowns are directly correlative as expected:
Non-Degree Nurses: Certified Nurse’s Aides (CNAs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
With a growth of 12%, the median salary is $46,240 every year with a diploma in Practical Nursing.
Degree Nurses: Registered Nurses (RNs)
With an Associate of Science in Nursing, RNs have a 15% growth potential, and a median salary of $71,730 every year. Areas of most common specialization are Oncology, Pediatrics or Acute/Critical Care.
With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, RNs are in higher demand and have a higher income potential with stronger job market opportunities. An estimated 55-60% of nurses have at least a BSN and that percentage is expected to climb to 80% by 2020, and some states require a BSN before newly licensed RNs can enter practice. The National Nursing Workforce Study also indicates that 50% of RNs are 50+ years old. Depending on the industry and specializations, an RM can earn a median salary of $95,400 every year.
Advanced-Degree Nurses
Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs), Clinical Nurse Leaders (CNLs), Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs), Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), and Advance Practice Nurses (APNs). Specialized services and management roles often require a Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) as well as specializations.
- Demand for Nurse Practitioners in particular is expected to grow by 36% through 2026. The median salary is $107,030 every year.
- Nurse Educators earn a median salary of $71,260 per year in a clinical or academic environment.
- Administration positions can include anything from a Shift Leader to a Healthcare Manager or Director of Nursing. Demand for administrative and leadership roles in nurses is expected to increase by 20% by 2026. The median salary for these advanced-degree positions is $99,730 per year.
These different types of nurses and salaries naturally offer a quick overview of the highest-paying nursing specialties. So, what are the highest-paying nursing careers? The answer is that the nursing jobs that will earn the highest salary every tend to require advanced education and education. Beyond the Master’s of Science in Nursing, there are additional certifications, the Post-master’s nursing certificates (PMC), that offer even more in-depth and specialized knowledge. This level of training can allow a Nurse Practitioner to become board-certified in specialized areas.
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FAQs
25 Highest Paying Nursing Careers > Top RN to BSN? ›
Can Nurses Make Six Figures? Yes, you can 100% make six figures as a nurse. The disclaimer is that working in some states may make this easier than working in other states. Geographic location is a huge indicator of starting salary and can be a reason why some of you are not as close to others when looking at raw data.
How can a BSN RN make the most money? ›- Complete your BSN degree. ...
- Pursue experience in a nursing specialty. ...
- Volunteer to work overtime on occasion. ...
- Get an advanced nursing degree. ...
- Get creative with nursing side jobs. ...
- Become a travel nurse.
Can Nurses Make Six Figures? Yes, you can 100% make six figures as a nurse. The disclaimer is that working in some states may make this easier than working in other states. Geographic location is a huge indicator of starting salary and can be a reason why some of you are not as close to others when looking at raw data.
How to make $100,000 a year as a nurse? ›A nurse can make over $100,000 a year. It might require the nurse to get further training or to change jobs or locations, but it's doable. What kind of nurses get paid the most? A certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) is the highest-paid nurse.
Do you make more money as an RN or with a BSN? ›A BSN will earn more than an RN. According to Payscale, someone with a BSN degree earns $32.41 hourly on average. In comparison, an RN with an ADN makes $29.83 on average per hour.
What type of RN gets paid the most? ›Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Salary
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists earn a median salary of $195,610 per year according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, making it the top paying nursing specialty.
In the United States overall, the average registered nurse salary is $82,750 and the median (50th percentile) is $77,600. California, with RN salaries averaging $124,000, is the highest-paying state for nurses as of May 2021 (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Can a nurse make $500,000 a year? ›It's not uncommon when a person who wants to get into nursing school tells others they can make the “big bucks” doing what they do. That's why Olivia Reeves, 35, gives her steps to success on how she made between $250,000 to $500,000 a year — and paid off her student loans — by the time she was 27.
How can a nurse become a multi millionaire? ›- Work the night shift.
- Pull an occasional extra shift.
- Keep up with your certifications.
- Add additional certifications to your resume.
- Work in critical care areas (ER or ICU)
- Work as a travel nurse.
- Earn an advanced degree.
- Move into management.
But even outside of those specialties, having an advanced nursing degree can almost guarantee that you'll be making an average salary that is at least six figures. The average nurse practitioner makes $117,670 per year — and depending on which specialty you choose, you can make well beyond that amount.
Is BSN RN worth it? ›
One of the first steps to becoming a nurse researcher is earning a Bachelor of Science in nursing. Although some research assignments or projects may require you to earn an advanced degree, the RN-to-BSN is worth it if you want to get started on the research path without jumping into a graduate nursing program.
Why get BSN instead of RN? ›The salary difference between RN vs BSN degrees is that those who hold a BSN degree are likely to make more than RN's who only have their associates degree. A BSN degree is favored over just an associates degree for many entry-level nursing jobs, therefore a BSN has more opportunities to make more money.
Should I become an RN then a BSN? ›According to the Bureau of Labor Statistic's Occupational Outlook Handbook: ”Generally, registered nurses who have a bachelor of science degree in nursing (BSN) will have better job prospects than those without one.” Increasingly, a BSN degree is becoming the degree of choice for other reasons as well.
What is the lowest BSN salary? ›- 10th Percentile: $61,250.
- 25th Percentile: $66,680.
- 75th Percentile: $101,100.
- 90th Percentile: $129,400.
- Projected job growth: 6.2%
As of 2018, the percentage of nurses that have graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing (BSN) or higher is about 57% (Campaign for Action, 2020).
What country pays nurses the most? ›1. Luxembourg - $96,000 (USD) Currently topping the list as the highest-paid country in the world for nurses, this tiny country in Western Europe pays its nurses very well. Because of the tiny size of the country and its tax haven laws, getting a job as a nurse is extremely difficult.
What is the highest RN salary in hospital? ›| Annual Salary | Weekly Pay | |
|---|---|---|
| Top Earners | $104,287 | $2,005 |
| 75th Percentile | $91,557 | $1,760 |
| Average | $82,465 | $1,585 |
| 25th Percentile | $68,546 | $1,318 |
Pay rates vary by company, locale, education, and experience. ZipRecruiter reports as of September 2022 that cruise ship nurse salaries range from $39,000-$105,500.
What country pays nurses the least? ›The average wage in a country is based on the total wages paid and the average number of employees in the total economy. In 2020, the ratio of a nurse's salary to the average wage varied from 0.88 in Lithuania to 1.58 in Belgium.
What state are nurses the happiest? ›- #5 Colorado. Quality of life ranking: #10. Average RN salary: $69,990.00. ...
- #4 Alaska. Quality of life ranking: #19. Average RN salary: $88,510.00. ...
- #3 Oregon. Quality of life ranking: #18. ...
- #2 Wisconsin. Quality of life ranking: #3. ...
- #1 Minnesota. Quality of life ranking: #2.
What is the starting salary for a BSN nurse in USA? ›
Entry Level BSN Salary. $35,000 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $85,000 is the 90th percentile.
What city do registered nurses make the most money? ›This makes San Jose the highest-paying city for nurses as of May 2021 (according to the BLS). In the United States, the average salary for RNs is $82,750. Additionally, the median (50th percentile) is $77,600. Over $100,000 lower than the San Jose's average nurse salary is Decatur, AL, at $54,410.
Can I make 200k as a travel nurse? ›Even with the decrease, travel nurses can make nearly $200,000 per year, assuming a weekly rate of $3,080.
Who makes more money than nurses? ›While both nurse practitioners and doctors can enjoy the benefit of great incomes, doctors make almost twice as much as nurse practitioners. In fact, according to a report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, doctors typically earn an average annual salary of about $200,000 or more.
How rich can a nurse be? ›Registered nurses (RNs) in the U.S. earned a median annual wage of $77,600 as of May 2021, the most-recent data available from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. And the highest earning RNs earn more than $120,000 each year.
Can a travel nurse be rich? ›Under normal circumstances, many travel nurses have the potential to earn over $3,000 per week. Travel nurses can bring in over $50 per hour, plus company-paid housing accommodations. Making it entirely possible for travel nurses to make well over $100K per year.
Can I skip my BSN and get my MSN? ›Can You Get Your MSN without a BSN? The short answer is yes. The most common path to earning an MSN degree is to earn a BSN degree first. However, some nursing programs allow non-nursing degree-holding students to earn an MSN without a BSN through a Direct Entry MSN program.
How to get rich as a travel nurse? ›- Choose a High-Paying Specialty. ...
- Seek Professional Certifications. ...
- Obtain a Compact License. ...
- Work in Higher Paying Locations. ...
- Don't Be Afraid of Overtime. ...
- Work Weekends and Holidays. ...
- Be Smart About Housing to Make the Most Money as a Travel Nurse.
The mean hourly wage for a Registered Nurse in the United States is $39.78. The bottom 10% of RNs make an hourly wage of $28.58. The top 10% of RNs make an hourly wage of $57.81. The median hourly wage for an RN is $37.31.
Will nurses get paid more in the future? ›With a glut of open nursing positions, it's prime time for nurses to ask for more money, or find a higher-paying position. Salaries may continue to increase in the coming years, but probably not at the rate seen recently. So, if nurses want a raise, now's the time to ask for one.
How to make 6 figures in healthcare? ›
- Veterinarian.
- Pharmacy manager.
- Psychologist.
- Physician assistant.
- Nurse practitioner.
- ICU nurse.
- Orthopedist.
- Infertility specialist.
“As a BSN, you have more opportunities than your RN counterparts. You can step up to a leadership position, move into nursing education, work in public health and focus on health education within the community, or even go on to pursue a nurse practitioner or nurse administrator degree,” Christman said.
Are BSN nurses better nurses? ›We found that hospitals with a larger proportion of nurses with BSN qualifications have significantly lower risk-adjusted mortality for surgical patients, regardless of the specific pathway nurses take to earn a bachelor's degree in nursing.
What is the difference between ADN and RN? ›Is an ADN the same as an RN? An ADN is a two-year nursing degree that leads to becoming an RN. The RN credential is more than holding the degree: It includes earning an RN diploma, ADN, or BSN degree, passing the NCLEX, and completing state licensing requirements.
What title goes after RN BSN? ›Nurses in clinical practice tend to list their licensure first followed by degrees and then certifications. For example: RN, BSN, CCRN. Nurses who are academic educators list their academic degrees first followed by licensure and then certifications. For example: DNP, RN, CNE.
Is it better to have a BSN or MSN? ›Do nurses with an MSN earn more? Nurses with an MSN can earn more than RNs with a BSN. That's partly because a nurse with an MSN is better positioned to work in management or become licensed as a nurse practitioner. As of 2021, the average annual salary for a nurse practitioner is $120,680.
How do you write your name with RN and BSN? ›Either way is correct when writing out your name and credentials — Jane Doe, RN, BSN, or Jane Doe, BSN, RN. In the world of academia, the college degree is used first and then licensure and other credentials.
Is the NCLEX hard? ›The NCLEX is a hard exam, but it's not impossible to pass. Statistically, over 80% of students who take the NCLEX RN or NCLEX PN exam will pass. Most likely, a student will pass if they went to a good nursing program, bought a good NCLEX prep course, and has a good NCLEX study plan in place.
What does DNP stand for? ›A doctor of nursing practice, or DNP, and a medical degree are both earned following rigorous coursework, and both lead to or accelerate careers in the health care field.
What does ADN stand for? ›As you've been looking into pursuing a nursing career, you've likely noticed a number of options to acquire the credentials you need. One that stands out is an associate degree in nursing (ADN) since you can finish a program in two years or fewer.
How much do BSN RN make in Michigan? ›
BSN Salary in Michigan $78,745 (Mar 2023) ZipRecruiter.
How much does a BSN make in Maryland? ›How much does a BSN make in Maryland? As of Apr 12, 2023, the average annual pay for the BSN jobs category in Maryland is $89,115 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $42.84 an hour. This is the equivalent of $1,713/week or $7,426/month.
How much do RN BSN make in Seattle? ›The average salary for RN, Bsn is US$116,916 per year in the Seattle, WA, United States.
Why do hospitals prefer BSN nurses? ›Many hospitals favor hiring nurses with a BSN because they can reach the IOM's recommendation without losing ADNs who are close to retirement age. If hospitals do hire nurses with an associate degree, they may require them to complete a BSN program within two to five years.
What hospital pays nurses the most in Michigan? ›- Adventist Health. 3.7 $82.99per hour. 332 reviews9 salaries reported.
- Compassionate Helpers. 3.7 $74.83per hour. 7 reviews48 salaries reported.
- Sutter Health. 3.8 $69.27per hour. ...
- Trusted Health. 4.2 $68.58per hour. ...
- Kaiser Permanente. 4.1 $67.95per hour. ...
- Show more companies.
Travel Nurse Salary Guide: Michigan
The average salary for a Travel Nurse in Michigan is $2,159 per week. This is 4% lower than the US average of $2,248. Last updated on May 1, 2023.
$43,856 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $98,179 is the 75th percentile.
How much does a new grad BSN nurse earn in Maryland? ›How much does a New Graduate Registered Nurse make in Maryland? The average New Graduate Registered Nurse salary in Maryland is $70,213 as of May 01, 2023, but the range typically falls between $62,984 and $80,264.
How much does RN BSN pay in chicago? ›How much does a RN BSN make in Chicago, Illinois? As of Apr 25, 2023, the average annual pay for a RN BSN in Chicago is $66,836 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $32.13 an hour. This is the equivalent of $1,285/week or $5,569/month.
How much does a new grad RN BSN make in Chicago? ›The average New Graduate Registered Nurse salary in Chicago, IL is $71,632 as of March 28, 2023, but the salary range typically falls between $64,258 and $81,890.
How much does an RN with a BSN earn in Houston? ›
$70,267 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $119,212 is the 75th percentile.