Nursing Salaries

Salaries for Nursing will vary depending on location, experience, and education.  Below are some positions in the Nursing field and their average salaries in the United States.

Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA)

After conclusion of formal CNA program and passing a states exam, Certified Nurse Assistant averages a salary of $24,500.  After becoming a CNA, one may decide to go back to school to become a Licensed Practical Nurse or a Registered Nurse.

In a city such a Seattle, a CNA has the opportunity to average a yearly salary of $29,000 while in a city such as Charlotte, NC, a CNA can make $21,000.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

As a Licensed Practical Nurse, the average salary is $38,000.  A LPN works under the supervision of a Registered Nurse.  Typically as a LPN, your pay won’t increase significantly, so for those who are interested in a higher income may want to continue their education to become a Registered Nurse. 

Depending on location, the median salary will differ, for instance in Philadelphia, the average salary for a LPN is $46,000, while in Oklahoma City, the average salary is $35,000.

Registered Nurse (RN)

On average, a Registered Nurse in the United States makes $52,000 a year as an entry level Nurse.  With experience, a Registered Nurse has the potential to make as much as $67,000 a year.

In certain cities such as Los Angeles, New York, and Philadelphia,  a Registered Nurse has the opportunity to earn more due to the cost of living, than other cities such as Atlanta, Orlando, and St. Louis.  In Los Angeles, a Registered Nurse can make upwards of $72,000, while in St. Louis, the average salary for a register Nurse is $48,907.

As you can see, the amount you make on a yearly basis does vary depending on your education.  In Nursing, you’re compensated for your education.  If you continue to go for higher degrees, you have the opportunity to make more money yearly.