How Many Nurses are There in the U.S. – 2025 State Wise Data

Written By: Kasee WiesenKasee Wiesen DNP, APRN, FNP-C

Kasee Wiesen is a practicing family nurse practitioner. Her nursing background includes emergency medicine, pediatrics and peri-op. She started her health career as a nurse’s aid while pursuing her bachelor’s in nursing degree in a hospital setting. Education is a passion of Kasee’s, and after working as a BSN prepared nursed, she obtained in master’s in nursing education and began teaching adjunct for a local university. Read Full Bio »» DNP, APRN, FNP-C

Nursing is a prevalent and prominent career choice for many people, and they are known for being honest, trustworthy, and caring. Plus, almost everyone knows a nurse—whether this is a parent, aunt, uncle, grandparent, friend, etc. So, you may be wondering, how many nurses are there in the U.S.? Well, read below, and you will learn more about the current nursing statistics, including the total number of nurses in the U.S. and each state in 2025.

How Many Nurses Are There In The United States?

The total number of nurses in the U.S.A is 5,355,450. This number does not just include registered nurses, although they make up a significant portion of nurses at almost 56%. It also has many other types of nurses; CNAs, LPN/LVNs, NE, CNM, NP, and CRNAs. The two specialties with the smallest number of nurses in the U.S. are nurse-midwives and CRNAs—and this is not surprising since they are both highly specialized; therefore, fewer are needed to ensure their patient’s needs are met.

How Many Nurses Are Estimated to be There in the United States After 10 Years?

Between 2020 and 2030, the total number of nurses in U.S.A. is expected to grow by almost 11%-- with the new employment growth estimated at 593,500 nurses. Strong growth is expected for all types of nurses, with nurse educators and nurse practitioners being the ones with the highest expected new employment growth. This is excellent for nurses—indicating the demand for the career is still present and is expected to only increase over the next decade.

In What Workplace Settings Do Majority of the Nurses in the United States Work?

One of the benefits of becoming a nurse is that there are typically options regarding the setting you want to work in--this includes the clinic, hospital (inpatient), hospital (outpatient), long-term care facilities, surgical centers, school systems, home health, etc.

The majority of CNAs and LPNs/LVNs work in nursing care facilities or long-term care facilities. However, more hospitals are starting to utilize LPNs in the inpatient setting, which may change over the next ten years. Certified nurse midwives, nurse practitioners, and CRNAs primarily work in the clinic/offices of physicians. Most Nurse educators work in colleges, universities, and professional schools, and the majority of RNs work in the hospital setting.

In What States Do Majority of the Nurses in the United States Work?

Just like you will see below, the majority of the nurses work in California. This includes CNAs, LPNs/LVNs, RNs, CNMs, and NPs. New York has the highest number of nurse educators at 5,100, and Florida has the highest number of CRNAs at 3,660.

Type of Nurse	State	Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	California	97,970
Licensed Practical Nurse/ Licensed Vocational Nurse	California	71,320
Registered Nurse	California	307,060
Nurse Educator	New York	5,100
Certified Nurse Midwife	California	1,010
Nurse Practitioner	California	15,100
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	Florida	3,660
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

In What Metros Do Majority of the Nurses in the United States Work?

Ironically, none of the metros with the highest number of nurses are located in California—since California is the state with the highest number of nurses. The New York-Newark-Jersey City metro has the highest number of CNAs, LPNs/LVNs, RNs, nurse educators, nurse midwives, and NPs. The Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach metro has the highest number of CRNAs.

What is the Distribution of Nurses in the United States by Gender?

The majority of the nurses in the United States are female—and there is no information on the distribution of nurses by gender for nurse educators. We have seen an increase in the number of male nurses over the past ten years—and I believe this trend will continue.

What is the Distribution of Nurses in the United States by Race and Ethnicity?

When looking at the distribution of nurses in the United States by race and ethnicity, most nurses are white, followed by Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino, and then Asian. This distribution is true for CNAs, LPNs/LVNs, RNs, and NPs. There is no information available regarding the distribution of nurses by race and ethnicity for nurse educators, CRNAs, and nurse-midwives.

What is the Distribution Of Nurses in the United States by Age?

The median age for nurses in the United States ranges from the late 30s to 40s—based on the type of nurse. For example, the median age of a registered nurse in the United States is 42.6 compared to the median age of a CNA which is 39.5. Unfortunately, no information is available regarding the age range/median age for nurse educators, nurse midwives, or CRNAs.

How Many Nurses Are There Compared to Other Healthcare Workers in the United States?

There is a significant number of nurses in the U.S. making nursing the healthcare profession with the greatest employment. Out of the healthcare workers in the United States, registered nurses are ranked #1 on the list for the highest employed healthcare profession—there are 2,986,500 registered nurses in the United States. Following RNs are Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) coming in at #2. When you look at the top five on the list of healthcare workers in the United States, a nursing-related profession takes three of the five spots. Nurse Practitioners are ranked #11 on the list, nurse educators are # 29, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA) are #35, and nurse-midwife come in at #42.

How Many Nurses are There in Your State?

Now that you know how many nurses are in the U.S, below you will find the latest data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics on the total number of nurses currently working in each state.

1. Alabama

There are currently 88,950 nurses working in Alabama. Certified nursing assistants make up the most nurses, with 21,470, while certified registered nurse anesthetists make up the lowest number of nurses with 1,410. The BLS did not provide specific data for the number of nurse-midwives in Alabama. This data may not be available since midwives just became a recognized specialty of nursing in 2019--the last license given to a midwife in Alabama was in 1976.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	21,470
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	12,000
Registered Nurse	48,850
Nurse Educator	1,290
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	3,930
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	1,410
Total Number of Nurses	88,950

2. Alaska

How many nurses work in Alaska? In Alaska, there are 9,330 nurses—which includes all professions. Registered nurses make up the largest portion of nurses totaling 6,240 or almost 67% of all nurses throughout the state. There are only 50 nurse midwives, and the BLS provides no information regarding the number of CRNAs.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	1,800
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	330
Registered Nurse	6,240
Nurse Educator	140
Nurse Midwife	50
Nurse Practitioner	770
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	N/A
Total Number of Nurses	9,330

3. Arizona

There are 85,450 nurses in Arizona—with almost 65% of those being RNs, followed by CNAs making up 18%. The number of midwives and CRNAs in the state are comparable and make up the smallest amount of nurses in Arizona. I will be honest; I am surprised there are not more nurses working in Arizona—with the warm weather and growing population placing Arizona as number 14 for the most populous state in the United States.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	15,830
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	7,440
Registered Nurse	55,520
Nurse Educator	1,700
Nurse Midwife	90
Nurse Practitioner	4,790
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	80
Total Number of Nurses	85,450

4. Arkansas

In Arkansas, there are 58,670 nurses. And what is shocking about this is that three types of nurses make up 94%--certified nurse assistants, licensed practical/licensed vocational nurses, and registered nurses. There is no data available for the number of nurse-midwives or CRNAs in Arkansas.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	18,560
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	11,540
Registered Nurse	25,300
Nurse Educator	540
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	2,730
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	N/A
Total Number of Nurses	58,670

5. California

There are 497,680 nurses in California—making California the state with the highest number of nurses. California is also the most populous state in the United States and is expected to grow, clearly supporting the need for so many nurses. RNs make up the majority of nurses in California, followed by CNAs and LPNs/LVNs.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	97,970
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	71,320
Registered Nurse	307,060
Nurse Educator	3,510
Nurse Midwife	1,010
Nurse Practitioner	15,100
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	1,710
Total Number of Nurses	497,680

6. Colorado

There are 83,400 nurses in Colorado. The majority of these nurses are RNs, who make up just under 63% of the nurses in Colorado—RNs are followed by CNAs, who make up 25% of the nurses in Colorado. The specialty with the fewest number of nurses is nurse-midwives. This is almost to be expected—being a nurse-midwife is very specialized, and there are not as many needed to meet the needs of their patients.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	21,310
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	4,960
Registered Nurse	52,330
Nurse Educator	1,180
Nurse Midwife	170
Nurse Practitioner	3,080
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	370
Total Number of Nurses	83,400

7. Connecticut

Out of 66,140 nurses in Connecticut, 33,400 or 50% are registered, nurses. Nurse-midwives and nurse educators make up the smallest portion of nurses, and there is no data on the number of CRNAs throughout the state.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	21,370
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	7,950
Registered Nurse	33,400
Nurse Educator	640
Nurse Midwife	150
Nurse Practitioner	2,630
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	N/A
Total Number of Nurses	66,140

8. Delaware

Delaware is in the top five states with the fewest total number of nurses, 19,800—which correlates with their population since it is one of the least populated states in the United States. Just like in many other states, RNs, CNAs, and LPN/LVNs make up the majority of the nurses—and in Delaware, nurse midwives and CRNAs make up the specialties with the fewest nurses.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	4,930
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	2,290
Registered Nurse	11,410
Nurse Educator	320
Nurse Midwife	40
Nurse Practitioner	740
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	70
Total Number of Nurses	19,800

9. Florida

There are 330,200 nurses in Florida—which should not come as a surprise since Florida is one of the most populous states. These nurses are needed to care for Florida's aging and growing population. CRNAs, nurse-midwives, and nurse educators make up 2% of the nurses—with the majority being RNs at 55%.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	84,520
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	41,560
Registered Nurse	183,130
Nurse Educator	3,980
Nurse Midwife	340
Nurse Practitioner	13,010
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	3,660
Total Number of Nurses	330,200

10. Georgia

Georgia has 138,980 nurses. The majority are RNs and CNAs, which total almost 77% of the nurses. Like many other states, nurse midwives, CRNAs, and nurse educators make up the fewest number totaling just over 1% of all the nurses.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	33,520
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	22,170
Registered Nurse	73,230
Nurse Educator	960
Nurse Midwife	420
Nurse Practitioner	8,120
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	560
Total Number of Nurses	138,980

11. Hawaii

How many nurses work in Hawaii? In Hawaii, there are 16,910 total nurses employed. 66% are registered nurses, and 24% are CNAs. There is no data available regarding the number of nurse-midwives or CRNAs in Hawaii.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	4,050
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	930
Registered Nurse	11,260
Nurse Educator	280
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	390
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	N/A
Total Number of Nurses	16,910

12. Idaho

There are currently 23,220 total nurses employed in Idaho. Just like the other states, RNs make up the largest portion of nurses—which makes sense based on their needs across many settings in healthcare. There are very few nurse-midwives in Idaho, which total throughout the state to only 30.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	6,600
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	2,520
Registered Nurse	12,800
Nurse Educator	250
Nurse Midwife	30
Nurse Practitioner	810
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	210
Total Number of Nurses	23,220

13. Illinois

There are 214,430 nurses employed in Illinois. With Illinois ranked #6 most populated state—this number is not unexpected. The majority of the nurses are registered nurses and certified nursing assistants—the nursing type with the fewest is midwifery —which is comparable to other states.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	56,330
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	19,630
Registered Nurse	127,450
Nurse Educator	2,370
Nurse Midwife	300
Nurse Practitioner	6,890
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	1,460
Total Number of Nurses	214,430

14. Indiana

In Indiana, there are 119,320 total nurses. Like in other states, most nurses are RNs and the type with the fewest nurses is midwifery. Nurse practitioners make up almost 5% of the nurses, more than several states on this list.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	30,120
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	14,710
Registered Nurse	66,460
Nurse Educator	1,630
Nurse Midwife	70
Nurse Practitioner	5,700
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	630
Total Number of Nurses	119,320

15. Iowa

There are 64,330 total nurses working in Iowa. This number is on the lower side—but Iowa is not one of the more populated states. Registered nurses make up almost 51% of the nurses, and certified nursing assistants make up 35%. There are only 40 nurse-midwives in Iowa, making them the lowest employed type of nurse.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	22,520
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	6,140
Registered Nurse	32,610
Nurse Educator	630
Nurse Midwife	40
Nurse Practitioner	2,010
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	380
Total Number of Nurses	64,330

16. Kansas

The total number of nurses in Kansas is 62,170. The types of nurses with the lowest current employment are CRNAs and nurse educators—there is no data on nurse-midwives. Nurse practitioners make up 4% of the nurses, and like always, RNs have the highest employment rate.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	21,790
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	6,860
Registered Nurse	29,430
Nurse Educator	770
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	2,580
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	740
Total Number of Nurses	62,170

17. Kentucky

There are 77,889 nurses working in Kentucky. The majority of the nurses are registered nurses—which is typical due to their role in healthcare and their ability to work in multiple environments to deliver care. There are the fewest nurse educators in Kentucky but no data on the number of nurse-midwives.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	20,310
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	9,390
Registered Nurse	42,940
Nurse Educator	390
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	4,250
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	600
Total Number of Nurses	77,880

18. Louisiana

You may be wondering, how many nurses work in Louisiana? In Louisiana, there are 85,720 total nurses. Nurse educators and CRNAs make up the lowest number of nurses. This has been a trend noted in other states—and is most likely due to the specialty of these nurses. As always, registered nurses have the most employed. There is no data on nurse-midwives in Louisiana.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	21,030
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	18,560
Registered Nurse	41,690
Nurse Educator	450
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	3,170
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	820
Total Number of Nurses	85,720

19. Maine

The total number of nurses in Maine is 26,360—making it one of the states with the fewest nurses employed. This is not unexpected since Maine is listed as one of the least populated states in the United States. Registered nurses make up almost 54% of the nurses, followed by CNAs and LPNs/LVNs. Nurse-midwives have the fewest nurses, with only 60.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	9,140
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	1,070
Registered Nurse	14,160
Nurse Educator	270
Nurse Midwife	60
Nurse Practitioner	1,360
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	300
Total Number of Nurses	26,360

20. Maryland

So, how many nurses are there in Maryland? The total number of nurses in Maryland is 93,210. Just over 55% of the nurses in Maryland are RNs. Nurse educators, nurse midwives, and CRNAs make up 2% of the nurses.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	27,430
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	8,940
Registered Nurse	51,480
Nurse Educator	1,360
Nurse Midwife	220
Nurse Practitioner	3,320
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	460
Total Number of Nurses	93,210

21. Massachusetts

There are 148,790 nurses in Massachusetts. Of those 148,790, RNs and CNAs make up almost 84% of the nurses. The nurse with the fewest number is nurse midwives, followed by CRNAs.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	40,550
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	14,790
Registered Nurse	84,030
Nurse Educator	2,300
Nurse Midwife	290
Nurse Practitioner	6,430
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	400
Total Number of Nurses	148,790

22. Michigan

So, how many nurses work in Michigan? In Michigan, there are 168,910 nurses. As we have seen in the previous states, RNs make up the majority of the nurses—but again, their role in healthcare and the care they deliver is greatly needed. Nurse-midwives make up the specialty with the fewest nurses.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	48,610
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	12,700
Registered Nurse	97,820
Nurse Educator	2,130
Nurse Midwife	350
Nurse Practitioner	4,880
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	2,420
Total Number of Nurses	168,910

23. Minnesota

There are 120,180 total nurses in Minnesota. The majority of nurses are registered nurses, and the specialty with the fewest nurses is nurse-midwifery. Nurse educators and CRNAs make up 2% of the nurses, and NPs make up 3%.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	28,260
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	14,210
Registered Nurse	70,820
Nurse Educator	1,280
Nurse Midwife	230
Nurse Practitioner	4,080
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	1,300
Total Number of Nurses	120,180

24. Mississippi

In Mississippi, there are 55,890 nurses. The majority of nurses are registered, nurses. There are very few nurse educators, and CRNAs make up just over 1% of the nurses. There is no data on the number of midwives.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	13,010
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	9,580
Registered Nurse	28,800
Nurse Educator	590
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	3,640
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	270
Total Number of Nurses	55,890

25. Missouri

How many nurses work in Missouri? Missouri currently employs 129,460 nurses. There are 71,560 RNs compared to only 60 nurse-midwives. This is not astonishing since RNs can work in a wide variety of settings, whereas nurse-midwives are very specialized.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	34,880
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	14,770
Registered Nurse	71,560
Nurse Educator	1,220
Nurse Midwife	60
Nurse Practitioner	6,200
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	770
Total Number of Nurses	129,460

26. Montana

The number of nurses in Montana totals 17,930. While this number may seem low, the population of Montana is relatively low compared to the other states—therefore, this number is not surprising. The majority of these nurses are RNs. Nurse educators and CRNAs make up the lowest number of nurses, and there is no data on the number of nurse-midwives.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	5,110
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	1,850
Registered Nurse	9,980
Nurse Educator	220
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	710
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	60
Total Number of Nurses	17,930

27. Nebraska

You may be wondering, how many nurses are in Nebraska? There are 45,590 nurses in Nebraska—with 24,060 of those being RNs. Nurse educators and CRNAs make up the lowest employment rate by only totaling 2% of the total nurses. There is no data on the number of nurse-midwives.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	13,390
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	5,530
Registered Nurse	24,060
Nurse Educator	640
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	1,500
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	470
Total Number of Nurses	45,590

28. Nevada

The total number of nurses in Nevada is 34,990. This, again, is one of the states with a lower overall current employment of nurses. RNs make up 67% of nurses, followed by CNAs at 20%. CRNAs make up the least amount at only 70 total nurses, and there is no data on nurse-midwives.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	7,030
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	2,690
Registered Nurse	23,420
Nurse Educator	490
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	1,290
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	70
Total Number of Nurses	34,990

29. New Hampshire

The number of nurses in New Hampshire is 25,050—and yes, this is on the lower side but based on the population of New Hampshire, it is not unexpected. There are 13,840 RNs throughout the state and only 60 nurse midwives and 190 CRNAs.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	7,600
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	2,070
Registered Nurse	13,840
Nurse Educator	230
Nurse Midwife	60
Nurse Practitioner	1,060
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	190
Total Number of Nurses	25,050

30. New Jersey

So, what is the total number of nurses in New Jersey? There are currently 147,550 nurses of almost all types, including RNs, CRNAs, and nurse educators. RNs make up the largest proportion of these nurses, and nurse midwives, followed by CRNAs, make up the fewest—which is the pattern we have seen develop throughout the list.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	44,560
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	15,590
Registered Nurse	78,590
Nurse Educator	2,080
Nurse Midwife	130
Nurse Practitioner	5,800
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	800
Total Number of Nurses	147,550

31. New Mexico

The total number of nurses in New Mexico is 25,520—making New Mexico one of the states with the lowest employment of nurses. Out of the 25,520, 17,100 of those nurses are registered nurses. Nurse-midwives and nurse educators make up the smallest employment of nurses in New Mexico.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	4,980
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	1,900
Registered Nurse	17,100
Nurse Educator	140
Nurse Midwife	110
Nurse Practitioner	1,080
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	210
Total Number of Nurses	25,520

32. New York

How many nurses are there in New York? New York is one of the states with the highest employment of nurses—which is not surprising because New York City is one of the most populated cities in the United States. In New York, there are 326,760 nurses—with the majority of those nurses being RNs. Nurse-midwives and CRNAs make up the fewest number of nurses, but again, it is not surprising due to the highly specialized care they deliver.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	81,440
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	44,440
Registered Nurse	178,550
Nurse Educator	5,100
Nurse Midwife	460
Nurse Practitioner	14,850
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	1,920
Total Number of Nurses	326,760

33. North Carolina

The number of nurses in North Carolina is 180,290. As we have seen throughout this list, most of these nurses are RNs—which makes sense due to their skillset and role in health care in delivering care to patients. Nurse-midwives are the type of nurse with the fewest number—and this is unsurprising due to the highly specialized care they provide.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	53,900
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	16,250
Registered Nurse	99,110
Nurse Educator	2,030
Nurse Midwife	170
Nurse Practitioner	6,040
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	2,790
Total Number of Nurses	180,290

34. North Dakota

Are you wondering how many nurses work in North Dakota? There are 21,570 nurses employed in North Dakota. While this number may seem low, keep in mind that North Dakota is one of the least populated states in the United States. The majority of these nurses are RNs and CNAs, and there is no data regarding the number of nurse-midwives.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	7,930
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	2,520
Registered Nurse	9,970
Nurse Educator	230
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	690
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	230
Total Number of Nurses	21,570

35. Ohio

The number of nurses in Ohio totals 248,930, making Ohio one of the states with the highest employment of nurses. As we have seen throughout this list, RNs make up the majority of this number at almost 52%, and CNAs and then LPNs/LVNs follow closely behind. Nurse-midwives make up the nursing specialty with the fewest employed.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	63,290
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	40,850
Registered Nurse	129,090
Nurse Educator	3,060
Nurse Midwife	330
Nurse Practitioner	9,430
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	2,880
Total Number of Nurses	248,930

36. Oklahoma

In Oklahoma, the number of nurses totals 68,600. As we have seen throughout this list, 48% of these nurses are RNs, followed by CNAs and then LPNs/LVNs. Nurse educators and CRNAs make up the fewest amount of nurses, and there is no data on nurse-midwives.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	19,930
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	12,850
Registered Nurse	32,950
Nurse Educator	550
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	1,970
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	350
Total Number of Nurses	68,600

37. Oregon

How many nurses are there in Oregon? There are currently 55,960 nurses employed in Oregon. Almost 66% of the nurses are RNS, followed by CNAs with an employment rate of 22%. Nurse-midwives and CRNAs make up the types of nurses with the fewest number of nurses.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	12,320
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	3,810
Registered Nurse	36,840
Nurse Educator	340
Nurse Midwife	170
Nurse Practitioner	2,220
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	260
Total Number of Nurses	55,960

38. Pennsylvania

There are 267,300 nurses currently employed throughout Pennsylvania, making Pennsylvania one of the states with higher rates of nurse employment. Nurse midwives, CRNAs, and nurse educators make up the three specialties with the lowest rate of nurse employment—and as we have seen in all the previous states, RNs make up the majority.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	71,880
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	35,240
Registered Nurse	146,640
Nurse Educator	2,890
Nurse Midwife	340
Nurse Practitioner	8,150
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	2,160
Total Number of Nurses	267,300

39. Rhode Island

The number of nurses in Rhode Island is 23,430. This is relatively low, but the overall population of Rhode Island is in the bottom 10—making this not so unexpected. Just under 50% of the nurses are RNs, followed closely by CNAs. Nurse-midwives and nurse educators make up the specialties with the fewest number of nurses employed. There is no data on the number of CRNAs.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	9,110
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	1,120
Registered Nurse	12,150
Nurse Educator	320
Nurse Midwife	40
Nurse Practitioner	690
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	N/A
Total Number of Nurses	23,430

40. South Carolina

There are 78,420 nurses currently employed throughout the state of South Carolina. Of those 78,420 nurses, 58% are RNs. Nurse educators, nurse practitioners, and CRNAs make up 6% of the total nurses employed. There is no data on the number of midwives.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	17,710
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	9,780
Registered Nurse	45,930
Nurse Educator	890
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	2,820
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	1,290
Total Number of Nurses	78,420

41. South Dakota

South Dakota has 22,520 nurses. The types with the highest employment are RNs, LPNs/LVNs, and CNAs—which total 94% of the state's nurses. There is no information on the number of midwives employed.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	6,150
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	2,020
Registered Nurse	13,130
Nurse Educator	270
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	590
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	360
Total Number of Nurses	22,520

42. Tennessee

Tennessee currently employs 125,820 nurses throughout the state. Of these nurses, there are only 70 nurse-midwives. RNs, CNAs, and LPNs/LVNs are the three with the highest rate of employment—which is very comparable to the other states. This is most likely because CNAs and LPNs/LVNs require the least amount of education. The demand for these three types of nurses is also greater than the other subspecialties—although nurse educators are needed now more than ever.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	28,730
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	24,610
Registered Nurse	61,040
Nurse Educator	1,240
Nurse Midwife	70
Nurse Practitioner	8,300
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	1,830
Total Number of Nurses	125,820

43. Texas

There are 387,630 nurses employed throughout Texas—making it one of the states that employ the most nurses. This is not surprising since Texas is also one of the most populous states in the United States. Like many other states, registered nurses make up the majority of nurses, and the type of nurse with the fewest employed are nurse-midwives.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	75,690
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	69,650
Registered Nurse	219,330
Nurse Educator	5,040
Nurse Midwife	280
Nurse Practitioner	14,680
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	2,960
Total Number of Nurses	387,630

44. Utah

Utah currently employs 39,830 nurses. Unlike many other states, where nurse midwives are the fewest employed, CRNAs are the fewest number employed in Utah. However, Utah is comparable to other states in that RNs and CNAs make up the majority of nurses throughout the state.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	12,050
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	1,860
Registered Nurse	23,690
Nurse Educator	500
Nurse Midwife	90
Nurse Practitioner	1,610
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	30
Total Number of Nurses	39,830

45. Vermont

There are 10,950 nurses in Vermont—making Vermont one of the states with the fewest number of nurses employed. However, it is important to note that Vermont is also ranked #2 among the least populated states. The majority of their nurses are RNs, and the type of nurse with the fewest number employed is nurse-midwife, followed by CRNAs.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	2,460
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	990
Registered Nurse	6,810
Nurse Educator	110
Nurse Midwife	50
Nurse Practitioner	460
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	70
Total Number of Nurses	10,950

46. Virginia

Virginia has 137,460 total nurses employed throughout the state. Just like in the other states, RNs make up the majority of these nurses—they make up 48%. Nurse-midwives make up the smallest type of nurses, with only 290 throughout the state, and nurse practitioners make up 4%--which may increase over the next several years due to demand and physician shortage.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	41,560
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	20,750
Registered Nurse	66,450
Nurse Educator	1,500
Nurse Midwife	290
Nurse Practitioner	5,790
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	1,120
Total Number of Nurses	137,460

47. Washington

The total number of nurses employed in Washington State is 107,400 total nurses. Of those 107,400 nurses, 55% are registered, nurses. Nurse midwives, CRNAs, and nurse educators together make up only 2% of the total nurses.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	34,420
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	7,870
Registered Nurse	59,300
Nurse Educator	1,320
Nurse Midwife	110
Nurse Practitioner	3,720
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	660
Total Number of Nurses	107,400

48. West Virginia

West Virginia has 35,550 nurses employed throughout the state, and the majority of those nurses are RNs. The type with the fewest nurses is nurse-midwives—with total employment of only 40.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	7,350
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	5,980
Registered Nurse	19,800
Nurse Educator	510
Nurse Midwife	40
Nurse Practitioner	1,200
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	670
Total Number of Nurses	35,550

49. Wisconsin

Wisconsin has 109,010 nurses employed throughout the state. Nurse-midwives, CRNAs, and nurse educators make up the three lowest employed types of nurses in Wisconsin—and just like in the other states, RNs make up the majority.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	30,460
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	8,050
Registered Nurse	63,630
Nurse Educator	970
Nurse Midwife	120
Nurse Practitioner	4,820
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	960
Total Number of Nurses	109,010

50. Wyoming

In Wyoming, there are 8,790 total nurses. Wyoming has one of the lowest numbers of total nurses, which directly correlates to the population of Wyoming, which is ranked #1 for the lowest population in the United States. The majority of these nurses are either registered nurses or certified nursing assistants. There is no information available regarding the number of nursing midwives.

Type of Nurse	Current Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	2,810
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	440
Registered Nurse	5,010
Nurse Educator	140
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	340
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	50
Total Number of Nurses	8,790

The Conclusion

After reading the article above, I hope I answered the question how many nurses are there in the U.S.—and how many are located in each state. Nurses are an essential aspect of the healthcare system in the United States and worldwide. The total number of nurses in the U.S. is 5,355,450—and based on the information we have, this number will only continue to increase over the next decade. Based on these numbers, I bet you know a nurse—so reach out to them, thank them for what they do, and if you consider this career path, I am sure they will be more than happy to mentor you!

Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Our Expert

1. How Many Nursing Schools Are There In The U.S.?

There are 2,662 nursing schools in the United States. This number includes traditional and online programs, and it also includes nursing schools that offer advanced degrees such as master's in nursing degrees or doctorate in nursing degrees.

2,662

2. What Percentage Of The U.S. Population Are Nurses?

There are 5,355,450 nurses in the United States. But, due to the total population in the United States being 331,893,745, only 1.6% of the population is nurses.

U.S. Population	Total Number of Nurses	Percentage Of Nurses
331,893,745	5,355,450	1.61%

3. Is Nursing The Largest Healthcare Profession In The U.S.?

Nursing is the largest healthcare profession in the United States—which may be due to the many different types of nurses. Out of all the healthcare professions, RNs have the highest employment rate. This is followed by CNAs coming in at #2 for the most employed healthcare profession.

4. How Old Is The Average Nurse?

The average age of a nurse is 42. This number includes all types of nursing, including CNAs, LPNs/LVNs, RNs, nurse educators, etc.

42.2

5. What State Has The Highest Number Of Nurses In the U.S.?

California has the highest number of nurses in the United States. This is not shocking since California is also one of the most populous states in the United States. Plus—nurses want to work in California for the climate and activities outside of work.

California

497,680

6. How Many Male Nurses Are There In The U.S.?

There are 693,210 male nurses in the United States. I expect this number to increase over the next ten years, especially since we have already seen this increase over the last several years.

693,210

7. What Race Has The Most Nurses In The U.S.?

In the United States, the race that has the most nurses is white—there are a total of 3,672,436. This number includes CNAs, LPN/LVNs, RNs, and NPs. There is no information for the number of nurse educators, nurse midwives, or CRNAs.

Type of Nurse	White
Certified Nursing Assistant	781,499
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	459,979
Registered Nurse	2,248,835
Nurse Educator	N/A
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	182,123
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	N/A
Total Number of White Nurses	3,672,436

8. How Many Nurses In The U.S. Are Black?

More than 1,075,196 nurses in the United States are Black or African American. This is not an exact number due to a lack of information regarding the number of Black or African American nurse educators, nurse midwives, and CRNAs.

Type of Nurse	Black or African American
Certified Nursing Assistant	482,610
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	173,169
Registered Nurse	400,191
Nurse Educator	N/A
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	19,226
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	N/A
Total Number of Black or African American Nurses	> 1,075,196

9. How Many Hispanic Nurses Are There In The U.S.?

There are more than 540,574 Hispanic or Latino nurses in the United States. This number is not exact as there is no data available for the number of Hispanic or Latino nurse educators, nurse midwives, or CRNAs.

Type of Nurse	Hispanic or Latino
Certified Nursing Assistant	187,834
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	103,495
Registered Nurse	235,934
Nurse Educator	N/A
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	13,311
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	N/A
Total Number of Hispanic Nurses	> 540,574

10. How Many Asian Nurses Are There In The U.S.?

There are more than 350,643 Asian nurses in the United States. Over 74% of these nurses are registered, nurses. There is no information about Asian nurses working as nurse educators, midwives, or CRNAs.

Type of Nurse	Asian
Certified Nursing Assistant	64,439
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	19,617
Registered Nurse	259,826
Nurse Educator	N/A
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	6,761
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	N/A
Total Number of Asian Nurses	> 350,643

11. How Many Nurses Are There In The U.S. Army?

There are 9,598 nurses in the U.S. Army. This number includes all nurses and does not provide specifics for the types of nurses.

Army

9,598

12. How Many Nurses Are There In The U.S. Navy?

There are 4,540 nurses in the navy. This number includes all nurses and does specify the types of nurses that make up this number.

Navy

4,540

13. How Many Nurses Are There In The U.S. Air Force?

There are 4,036 nurses in the air force. This number includes all nurses and does not provide the specifics for the types of nurses.

Air Force

4,036

14. How Many Nurses Work In Hospitals?

Of the 5,355,430 nurses in the United States, 2,253,290 work in hospitals. Another way to look at this is that 42% of nurses work in hospitals. The majority of these nurses are registered nurses. There is no information regarding the nurse-midwife—as many of these nurses go to their patient’s homes to assist with delivery.

Type of Nurse	Employment
Certified Nursing Assistant	374,770
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	80,820
Registered Nurse	1,729,200
Nurse Educator	4,550
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	49,920
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist	14,030
Total Number of Nurses Working in Hospitals	2,253,290

15. Are There More Nurses Than Physicians In The U.S.?

Yes, there are more nurses than doctors. In fact, there are significantly more nurses than doctors—there are 375,390 physicians and 5,355,450 nurses, indicating 4,980,060 more nurses than doctors in the United States.

16. How Many Nurses Are There In The World?

Nurses make up almost 50% of the workforce in the world. There are approximately 27 million nurses in the world—which is an astonishing number when you think about it!