RN Pay Across the U.S. Adjusted for Cost of Living: A Comprehensive Guide for International Nurses
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, understanding the financial aspects of nursing careers is crucial, especially for international nurses seeking opportunities in the United States. At NurseContact, we aim to provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information to help you make informed decisions. This article delves into the adjusted RN pay across all 50 states, considering the cost of living, to give you a clear picture of where your nursing career can thrive.
Why Adjusted RN Pay Matters
When considering a move to the U.S., it’s essential to look beyond the surface of salary figures. The cost of living varies significantly from state to state, impacting your overall financial well-being. Adjusted RN pay provides a more realistic view of what you can expect to earn and save in different regions.
Top States for RN Pay Adjusted by Cost of Living
- California: Known for its high cost of living, California still tops the list with an adjusted hourly mean wage of $49.22. Despite the high expenses, the state’s robust healthcare system and numerous job opportunities make it a prime destination for nurses.
- Minnesota: With an adjusted hourly mean wage of $48.45, Minnesota offers a balanced lifestyle with a relatively lower cost of living compared to other high-paying states.
- Georgia: Georgia’s adjusted hourly mean wage stands at $47.55, making it an attractive option for nurses looking for a blend of good pay and affordable living.
- Oregon: Offering an adjusted hourly mean wage of $47.38, Oregon combines scenic beauty with competitive pay, making it a desirable location for many nurses.
- New Mexico: With an adjusted hourly mean wage of $47.03, New Mexico provides a unique cultural experience along with a favorable cost of living.
Below are the mean hourly wages for nurses in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., adjusted for cost of living. Becker’s calculated these figures using May 2023 salary data from BLS and 2024 cost of living index data from the World Population Review.
| State | RN hourly mean wage | Cost of living index | RN hourly mean wage, adjusted by cost of living |
| California | $66.20 | 134.5 | $49.22 |
| Minnesota | $45.59 | 94.1 | $48.45 |
| Georgia | $43.27 | 91 | $47.55 |
| Oregon | $54.54 | 115.1 | $47.38 |
| New Mexico | $44.30 | 94.2 | $47.03 |
| Texas | $43.37 | 93 | $46.63 |
| Illinois | $42.14 | 90.8 | $46.41 |
| Washington | $53.38 | 115.1 | $46.38 |
| Nevada | $46.97 | 101.3 | $46.37 |
| Oklahoma | $39.48 | 86 | $45.91 |
| Michigan | $41.45 | 92.7 | $44.71 |
| Delaware | $45.51 | 102.6 | $44.36 |
| Wisconsin | $41.93 | 95 | $44.14 |
| Wyoming | $40.38 | 92.8 | $43.51 |
| Indiana | $39.76 | 91.5 | $43.45 |
| Connecticut | $48.96 | 113.1 | $43.29 |
| Ohio | $40.59 | 94 | $43.18 |
| New Jersey | $49.02 | 114.1 | $42.96 |
| Nebraska | $38.36 | 90.1 | $42.57 |
| Mississippi | $36.30 | 85.3 | $42.56 |
| Pennsylvania | $42.08 | 99 | $42.51 |
| Alaska | $52.51 | 124.4 | $42.21 |
| Louisiana | $38.83 | 92 | $42.21 |
| Missouri | $37.30 | 88.4 | $42.19 |
| Kentucky | $39.31 | 93.8 | $41.91 |
| Colorado | $44.10 | 105.5 | $41.80 |
| Kansas | $36.65 | 87.7 | $41.79 |
| Tennessee | $37.61 | 90.4 | $41.60 |
| Rhode Island | $45.71 | 110.5 | $41.37 |
| North Carolina | $39.68 | 96.1 | $41.29 |
| Virginia | $42.48 | 103.1 | $41.20 |
| Arizona | $43.96 | 107.2 | $41.01 |
| New York | $51.26 | 125.1 | $40.98 |
| South Carolina | $39.13 | 96.5 | $40.55 |
| West Virginia | $36.53 | 90.3 | $40.45 |
| North Dakota | $38.07 | 94.6 | $40.24 |
| Iowa | $35.87 | 89.7 | $39.99 |
| Florida | $40.75 | 102.3 | $39.83 |
| Utah | $39.95 | 101.5 | $39.36 |
| Arkansas | $35.05 | 90.3 | $38.82 |
| Alabama | $34.31 | 88.8 | $38.64 |
| Montana | $39.88 | 103.7 | $38.46 |
| Idaho | $39.95 | 106.1 | $37.65 |
| New Hampshire | $42.98 | 115 | $37.37 |
| Maryland | $44.27 | 119.5 | $37.05 |
| Vermont | $42.49 | 114.9 | $36.98 |
| Maine | $40.55 | 111.5 | $36.37 |
| South Dakota | $33.19 | 93.8 | $35.38 |
| Massachusetts | $52.33 | 148.4 | $35.26 |
| District of Columbia | $51.37 | 148.7 | $34.55 |
| Hawaii | $57.55 | 179 | $32.15 |
Factors Influencing RN Pay
Several factors influence RN pay across different states, including:
- Demand for Healthcare Services: States with higher demand for healthcare services often offer better pay to attract skilled nurses.
- Cost of Living: As highlighted, the cost of living plays a significant role in determining the adjusted pay.
- State Policies and Funding: Government policies and funding for healthcare can impact salary scales.
How NurseContact Can Help
At NurseContact, we specialize in matching international nurses with U.S. employers, ensuring a streamlined hiring process. Our platform provides:
- Comprehensive Job Listings: Access to a wide range of job opportunities across various states.
- Guidance and Support: Expert advice on navigating the U.S. healthcare system and understanding the financial aspects of your career.
- Streamlined Hiring Process: Simplified application and hiring procedures to get you started on your new journey quickly.
Conclusion
Choosing the right state to start or continue your nursing career in the U.S. involves careful consideration of various factors, including adjusted RN pay. At NurseContact, we are committed to providing you with the information and support you need to make the best decision for your future. Explore our platform today and take the first step towards a rewarding nursing career in the United States.