How Much Does A Registered Nurse Make An Hour By State – 2025


Written By: Darby FaubionDarby Faubion RN, BSN, MBA

Darby Faubion is a nurse and allied health instructor with over 20 years of clinical experience. Darby lives in Louisiana and loves exploring the state’s rich culture and history. Darby has a passion for caring for veterans and a special interest in those affected by post-traumatic stress disorder. In her quest to make a difference for veterans, she founded a non-profit called “Operation Battle Buddy.” Read Full Bio »»
RN, BSN, MBA


Are you a registered nurse or thinking about becoming one? One of the most critical factors people consider when choosing a career is earning potential. If you are thinking about becoming a registered nurse, you may wonder, "How much does a registered nurse make an hour?” The pay for RNs varies from state to state, with income potential often reflecting the demand for nursing services and the cost of living in that area.

In this article, I will share information with you about how much registered nurses make an hour by state in 2025. You will find a state-by-state breakdown of hourly pay and information about earning potential for comparable jobs.



How Much Does a New Grad Registered Nurse Make an Hour?


New graduate nurses make an average of $29.45 per hour. This pay is more than four times the federal minimum wage. According to Statista, the average hourly earnings for all employees in the U.S. in May of 2023 was $11.03, which means new graduate RNs earn more than twice the average income earner in the country.

Salary Per Hour
$29.45
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



How Much Does a Registered Nurse Make an Hour With Experience?


Like other professions, the more experience you have as a registered nurse, the more money you can make. For example, the entry-level hourly wage for RNs is $29.45. Within five to nine years, you could earn up to ten dollars more per hour. Registered nurses with 20 or more years of experience earn an average of $62.21 per hour.

Level of Experience Salary Per Hour
Entry-Level $29.45
1-4 Years of Experience $32.06
5-9 Years of Experience $39.05
10-19 Years of Experience $48.61
20 Years or More Experience $62.21
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



On Average, How Much Does an Experienced Registered Nurse Make an Hour?


Being a registered nurse comes with the benefit of excellent income-earning potential. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, experienced registered nurses earn an average of $42.80 per hour. This pay is nearly six times the average minimum wage in the United States, which is $7.25 per hour!

Salary Per Hour
$42.80
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



Registered Nurse Salary Per Hour vs. All Occupations Salary Per Hour: Who Earns More


When you compare the hourly pay for registered nurses to all other occupations, the RN pay is significantly higher. All other occupations earn an average hourly wage of $29.76. Registered nurses make approximately $13.04 per hour more than other jobs, a difference of 43.82%.

Registered Nurse
Average Salary Per Hour
All Occupations
Average Salary Per Hour
Difference
Number %
$42.80 $29.76 +$13.04 +43.82%
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



Registered Nurse Salary Per Hour vs. Other Nursing Careers Salary Per Hour: Who Earns More


One of the excellent things about nursing is there are unlimited options for jobs and specializations, and each pays well. Even nursing careers that pay less than the RN wage still have good income potential.

For example, Nursing Assistants, Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses, and Nursing Instructors earn between $17.71 and $40.47 per hour. Their pay is between $2.33 and $25.39 per hour less than the average for registered nurses.

Conversely, advanced practice registered nurses and nurse practitioners earn higher wages. For instance, Nurse midwives, nurse practitioners, and nurse anesthetists earn between $58.87 and $98.93 per hour, which is between 27.30% and 56.74% more than registered nurses.

Rank Job Title Average Salary
Per Hour
Difference
Number %
1 Nurse Anesthetist $98.93 -$56.13 -56.74%
2 Nurse Practitioner $59.94 -$17.14 -28.60%
3 Nurse Midwife $58.87 -$16.07 -27.30%
4 Registered Nurse $42.80 $0.00 0.00%
5 Nursing Instructor and Teacher, Postsecondary $40.47 +$2.33 +5.76%
6 Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse $26.86 +$15.94 +59.34%
7 Nursing Assistant $17.41 +$25.39 +145.84%
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



Registered Nurse Salary Per Hour vs. Other Closely Related Healthcare Careers Salary Per Hour: Who Earns More


Compared to other closely related healthcare jobs, registered nurses are in the top ten for hourly pay. Dental hygienists, respiratory therapists, cardiovascular technologists/technicians, and medical assistants make less than RNs, with hourly wages ranging from $19.57 to $40.80. A few jobs that pay more than the average registered nurse's hourly rate include occupational therapists, radiation therapists, and pharmacists. These jobs pay between $44.61 and $62.22 per hour, a difference of 4.06% to 31.21%.

Rank Job Title Average Salary
Per Hour
Difference
Number %
1 Pharmacist $62.22 -$19.42 -31.21%
2 Physician Assistant $60.23 -$17.43 -28.94%
3 Radiation Therapist $47.28 -$4.48 -9.48%
4 Physical Therapist $47.10 -$4.30 -9.13%
5 Occupational Therapist $44.61 -$1.81 -4.06%
6 Registered Nurse $42.80 $0.00 0.00%
7 Dental Hygienist $40.80 +$2.00 +4.90%
8 Diagnostic Medical Sonographer $40.58 +$2.22 +5.47%
9 Respiratory Therapist $35.73 +$7.07 +19.79%
10 Radiologic Technologist $33.77 +$9.03 +26.74%
11 Dietitian and Nutritionist $33.34 +$9.46 +28.37%
12 Cardiovascular Technologist and Technician $31.49 +$11.31 +35.92%
13 Physical Therapist Assistant $31.01 +$11.79 +38.02%
14 Social Worker $28.58 +$14.22 +49.76%
15 Surgical Technologist $27.64 +$15.16 +54.85%
16 Emergency Medical Technician and Paramedics $21.63 +$21.17 +97.87%
17 Medical Assistant $19.57 +$23.23 +118.70%
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



How Much Do Registered Nurses Make an Hour by State?

(Below, you will find information on how much registered nurses make an hour by state in 2025.)


1. How Much Do Alabama Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($32.17)


Alabama registered nurses begin their careers earning approximately $23.47 per hour. With experience, the pay increases by $7 to $9 per hour every five to ten years. The average hourly pay for RNs in Alabama is $32.17.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $23.47
1-4 Years of Experience $24.99
5-9 Years of Experience $30.33
10-19 Years of Experience $36.37
20 Years or More Experience $39.79
Average $32.17



2. How Much Do Alaska Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($49.67)


In Alaska, RNs earn an average of $49.67 per hour. Entry-level registered nurses in the state make around $38.92 per hour, with wages increasing every one to four years. The most experienced RNs in Alaska earn more than $61 per hour.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $38.92
1-4 Years of Experience $39.86
5-9 Years of Experience $49.16
10-19 Years of Experience $57.74
20 Years or More Experience $61.19
Average $49.67



3. How Much Do Arizona Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($41.70)


If you become a registered nurse in Arizona, you will begin your career earning around $31.75 per hour. With 10 to 20 years of experience, you can earn between $47.30 and $50.73 per hour. The average hourly rate for RNs in the state is $41.70.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $31.75
1-4 Years of Experience $37.29
5-9 Years of Experience $39.58
10-19 Years of Experience $47.30
20 Years or More Experience $50.73
Average $41.70



4. How Much Do Arkansas Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($31.98)


In Arkansas, registered nurses make an average of $31.98 per hour. The beginning wage is lower than most states at $18.09 per hour and increases to approximately $40.24 hourly with 20 or more years of work experience.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $18.09
1-4 Years of Experience $28.02
5-9 Years of Experience $30.83
10-19 Years of Experience $36.95
20 Years or More Experience $40.24
Average $31.98



5. How Much Do California Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($64.10)


California registered nurses earn higher incomes, which may be attributed to the higher cost of living. Entry-level RNs in the state earn $40.72 per hour. With five to nine years of experience, you can earn nearly $64 per hour. The most experienced registered nurses in the state earn $85.42, and the average registered nurse salary per hour in California is $64.10.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $40.72
1-4 Years of Experience $50.30
5-9 Years of Experience $63.78
10-19 Years of Experience $77.78
20 Years or More Experience $85.42
Average $64.10



6. How Much Do Colorado Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($41.63)


In Colorado, registered nurses earn between $31.79 and $51.57 per hour based on experience. The average hourly wage for RNs in the state is $41.63.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $31.79
1-4 Years of Experience $36.77
5-9 Years of Experience $39.63
10-19 Years of Experience $47.37
20 Years or More Experience $51.57
Average $41.63



7. How Much Do Connecticut Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($45.32)


Registered nurses working in Connecticut make an average of $45.32 an hour. New RNs begin their careers earning around $34.16 hourly, and that wage can increase to approximately $57.50 for the most experienced.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $34.16
1-4 Years of Experience $39.07
5-9 Years of Experience $45.77
10-19 Years of Experience $49.55
20 Years or More Experience $57.50
Average $45.32



8. How Much Do Delaware Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($40.88)


In Delaware, entry-level registered nurses earn $30.82 per hour. In five to nine years, pay increases to approximately $39.54. The average salary per hour for RNs in the state is $40.88.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $30.82
1-4 Years of Experience $37.68
5-9 Years of Experience $39.54
10-19 Years of Experience $47.11
20 Years or More Experience $48.61
Average $40.88



9. How Much Do Florida Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($38.42)


The average registered nurse's salary per hour in Florida is $38.42. Registered nurses in the state earn between $29.42 and $48.11 based on years of experience.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $29.42
1-4 Years of Experience $31.17
5-9 Years of Experience $37.36
10-19 Years of Experience $40.18
20 Years or More Experience $48.11
Average $38.42



10. How Much Do Georgia Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($40.95)


In Georgia, new registered nurses earn little more than $29 per hour. With experience, you can expect to earn from $31.63 to $56.86 per hour, with the average registered hourly pay in Georgia
being $40.95.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $29.04
1-4 Years of Experience $31.63
5-9 Years of Experience $38.19
10-19 Years of Experience $46.76
20 Years or More Experience $56.86
Average $40.95



11. How Much Do Hawaii Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($54.43)


If you have thought of living and working in the Aloha State, being a registered nurse could be beneficial. RNs in Hawaii make between $36.85 and $66.21 hourly, with an average hourly pay of $54.43.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $36.85
1-4 Years of Experience $46.82
5-9 Years of Experience $57.74
10-19 Years of Experience $65.42
20 Years or More Experience $66.21
Average $54.43



12. How Much Do Idaho Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($37.79)


In Idaho, RNs entering the workforce earn about $29.58 per hour. The highest income-earning registered nurses earn approximately $48.29. The average registered nurse pay is $37.79 per hour.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $29.58
1-4 Years of Experience $32.18
5-9 Years of Experience $37.47
10-19 Years of Experience $40.53
20 Years or More Experience $48.29
Average $37.79



13. How Much Do Illinois Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($39.53)


Registered nurses in Illinois make between $29.89 and $49.08 hourly. The average registered nurse salary per hour in Illinois is $39.53.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $29.89
1-4 Years of Experience $33.77
5-9 Years of Experience $37.97
10-19 Years of Experience $46.02
20 Years or More Experience $49.08
Average $39.53



14. How Much Do Indiana Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($36.34)


The average registered hourly pay in Indiana is $36.34. Entry-level RNs earn around $26.54 per hour, and the most experienced with 20 or more years of experience make about $45.96 hourly.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $26.54
1-4 Years of Experience $30.49
5-9 Years of Experience $35.24
10-19 Years of Experience $39.44
20 Years or More Experience $45.96
Average $36.34



15. How Much Do Iowa Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($33.35)


In Iowa, registered nurses can earn between $27.08 and $40.08 per hour. The average hourly pay for RNs in the state is $33.35.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $27.08
1-4 Years of Experience $29.54
5-9 Years of Experience $31.25
10-19 Years of Experience $37.21
20 Years or More Experience $40.08
Average $33.35



16. How Much Do Kansas Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($34.61)


Kansas RNs earn an average of $34.61 per hour. The pay ranges between $25.00 for entry-level RNs and $44.77 for those with 20 years or more of experience.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $25.00
1-4 Years of Experience $29.08
5-9 Years of Experience $31.95
10-19 Years of Experience $37.81
20 Years or More Experience $44.77
Average $34.61



17. How Much Do Kentucky Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($37.32)


Entry-level registered nurses in Kentucky earn $26.98 per hour. RNs in the state usually see increases in hourly pay between $2 and $9 per hour, based on years of experience, with the most experienced earning $47.38 hourly. The average per-hour pay for registered nurses in Kentucky is $37.32.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $26.98
1-4 Years of Experience $30.25
5-9 Years of Experience $36.44
10-19 Years of Experience $38.94
20 Years or More Experience $47.38
Average $37.32



18. How Much Do Louisiana Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($36.50)


Registered nurses in Louisiana make between $27.64 and $45.93 per hour based on experience. The average hourly pay for RNs in this state is $36.50.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $27.64
1-4 Years of Experience $30.52
5-9 Years of Experience $35.18
10-19 Years of Experience $39.54
20 Years or More Experience $45.93
Average $36.50



19. How Much Do Maine Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($37.22)


Maine RNs earn an average of $37.22 per hour. Nurses entering the workforce make approximately $29.41. RNs with five to nine years of work experience earn $37.18, and those with 19 to 20 years earn between $40.27 and $48.52 hourly.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $29.41
1-4 Years of Experience $31.40
5-9 Years of Experience $37.18
10-19 Years of Experience $40.27
20 Years or More Experience $48.52
Average $37.22



20. How Much Do Maryland Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($42.30)


In Maryland, registered nurse pay ranges from $31.10 for entry-level RNs to $51.40 for the most experienced having 20 or more years of work experience. The average hourly pay for RNs in Maryland is $42.30.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $31.10
1-4 Years of Experience $36.92
5-9 Years of Experience $40.31
10-19 Years of Experience $48.32
20 Years or More Experience $51.40
Average $42.30



21. How Much Do Massachusetts Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($50.07)


The average registered hourly pay in Massachusetts is $50.07. New RNs usually earn around $32.44 per hour. With just ten years of experience, income potential almost doubles, with registered nurses earning $62.31 hourly. The highest hourly wage for RNs in the state is $74.12.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $32.44
1-4 Years of Experience $38.46
5-9 Years of Experience $47.37
10-19 Years of Experience $62.31
20 Years or More Experience $74.12
Average $50.07



22. How Much Do Michigan Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($38.78)


Registered nurses in Michigan make $30.90 per hour in entry-level positions. With continued experience, rates go as high as $48.52. The average registered hourly pay in Michigan is $38.78.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $30.90
1-4 Years of Experience $32.47
5-9 Years of Experience $38.07
10-19 Years of Experience $42.72
20 Years or More Experience $48.52
Average $38.78



23. How Much Do Minnesota Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($42.72)


In Minnesota, registered nurses earn between $31.49 and $51.91 an hour. The pay difference averages a $1 per year increase each year. The average registered hourly pay in Minnesota is $42.72.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $31.49
1-4 Years of Experience $37.23
5-9 Years of Experience $40.41
10-19 Years of Experience $49.94
20 Years or More Experience $51.91
Average $42.72



24. How Much Do Mississippi Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($32.66)


Mississippi registered nurses make $24.03 per hour just starting out. With five to nine years of continued experience, the pay increases to $30.45 per hour, and by the time they have 20 years of experience, the hourly wage is approximately $40.40. The average hourly pay for RNs in Mississippi is $32.66.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $24.03
1-4 Years of Experience $27.93
5-9 Years of Experience $30.45
10-19 Years of Experience $37.17
20 Years or More Experience $40.40
Average $32.66



25. How Much Do Missouri Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($34.55)


The average registered hourly pay in Missouri is $34.55. New RNs earn around $24.73 hourly, and more experienced registered nurses earn up to $45.36 an hour.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $24.73
1-4 Years of Experience $29.05
5-9 Years of Experience $34.35
10-19 Years of Experience $38.52
20 Years or More Experience $45.36
Average $34.55



26. How Much Do Montana Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($37.67)


Registered nurses in Montana earn between $30.26 and $47.58 per hour. The average hourly pay for RNs is $37.67, which is a little more than the wage for those with five to nine years of experience.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $30.26
1-4 Years of Experience $31.59
5-9 Years of Experience $36.80
10-19 Years of Experience $40.59
20 Years or More Experience $47.58
Average $37.67



27. How Much Do Nebraska Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($35.34)


In Nebraska, the entry-level pay for registered nurses is $28.32. RNs typically see wage increases every five to ten years between $2 and $6. The average salary per hour for Nebraska RNs is $35.34.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $28.32
1-4 Years of Experience $30.75
5-9 Years of Experience $36.05
10-19 Years of Experience $38.59
20 Years or More Experience $44.82
Average $35.34



28. How Much Do Nevada Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($46.30)


Nevada registered nurses earn hourly wages between $35.67 and $62.60. The biggest pay increase typically occurs between the fourth and ninth year of work experience, where RNs can go from making $38.86 to $45.64 an hour. The average hourly pay for RNs in the state is $46.30.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $35.67
1-4 Years of Experience $38.86
5-9 Years of Experience $45.64
10-19 Years of Experience $50.34
20 Years or More Experience $62.60
Average $46.30



29. How Much Do New Hampshire Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($40.11)


RNs in New Hampshire typically begin their careers earning around $30.19 hourly. With one to four years of experience, the pay does not change significantly. However, by the time you reach ten years of RN experience in the state, you could earn around $45.76. The average hourly pay for registered nurses in New Hampshire is $40.11.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $30.19
1-4 Years of Experience $32.89
5-9 Years of Experience $38.73
10-19 Years of Experience $45.76
20 Years or More Experience $50.13
Average $40.11



30. How Much Do New Jersey Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($46.48)


The average registered hourly pay in New Jersey is $46.48. The hourly pay ranges between $36.85 for entry-level RNs and $56.80 for those with the greatest levels of experience.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $36.85
1-4 Years of Experience $39.51
5-9 Years of Experience $47.16
10-19 Years of Experience $50.55
20 Years or More Experience $56.80
Average $46.48



31. How Much Do New Mexico Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($41.15)


In New Mexico, registered nurses earn around $31.00 per hour as they first begin their careers. Over time, the pay increases, with the most experienced RNs earning $51.11 per hour. The average pay for RNs in New Mexico is $41.15.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $31.02
1-4 Years of Experience $36.40
5-9 Years of Experience $39.42
10-19 Years of Experience $46.37
20 Years or More Experience $51.11
Average $41.15



32. How Much Do New York Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($48.14)


As an RN in New York, you could earn an entry-level wage of $31.17 per hour. In just one to four years, your income could increase by more than $6 per hour, making your pay $38.75. Earning potential more than doubles with 20 or more years of experience. The average registered nurse salary per hour in New York is $48.14.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $31.17
1-4 Years of Experience $38.75
5-9 Years of Experience $48.26
10-19 Years of Experience $51.76
20 Years or More Experience $63.92
Average $48.14



33. How Much Do North Carolina Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($37.22)


North Carolina registered nurses earn between $28.64 and $48.29 hourly based on years of experience. The average registered nurse salary per hour in North Carolina is $37.22.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $28.64
1-4 Years of Experience $31.13
5-9 Years of Experience $36.75
10-19 Years of Experience $40.50
20 Years or More Experience $48.29
Average $37.22



34. How Much Do North Dakota Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($36.06)


In North Dakota, registered nurses make between $29.22 and $33.38 from the time they enter the nursing workforce until they gain five to nine years of experience. Pay continues to increase with more experience, with the top earners making about $43.82 hourly. RNs in North Dakota earn an average salary of $36.06 per hour.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $29.22
1-4 Years of Experience $31.02
5-9 Years of Experience $33.48
10-19 Years of Experience $39.61
20 Years or More Experience $43.82
Average $36.06



35. How Much Do Ohio Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($37.72)


The average registered nurse salary per hour in Ohio is $37.72. RNs earning entry-level wages make around $29.74. Pay increases typically occur every one to five years, with some registered nurses earning as much as $47.30 per hour.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $29.74
1-4 Years of Experience $31.60
5-9 Years of Experience $36.93
10-19 Years of Experience $39.62
20 Years or More Experience $47.30
Average $37.72



36. How Much Do Oklahoma Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($36.98)


If you work as a registered nurse in Oklahoma, you can expect your hourly pay to be between $25.75 and $46.89 per hour. Most nurses see pay increases of $5 to $6 for every five to ten years of work experience. The average hourly pay for RNs in the state comes to $36.98.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $25.75
1-4 Years of Experience $30.35
5-9 Years of Experience $35.83
10-19 Years of Experience $39.22
20 Years or More Experience $46.89
Average $36.98



37. How Much Do Oregon Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($51.26)


In Oregon, RNs earn an average of $51.26 per hour. The pay scale ranges from $39.17 for entry-level registered nurses to $63.08 for those who remain in the industry for 20 years or more.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $39.17
1-4 Years of Experience $45.44
5-9 Years of Experience $51.29
10-19 Years of Experience $57.72
20 Years or More Experience $63.08
Average $51.26



38. How Much Do Pennsylvania Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($38.76)


Registered nurses in Pennsylvania typically earn between $29.54 and $37.86 during the first nine years of experience. After gaining 10 years of experience, you can expect to see an increase in your RN pay in the state to $45.15. The average registered nurse salary per hour in Pennsylvania is $38.76.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $29.54
1-4 Years of Experience $32.20
5-9 Years of Experience $37.86
10-19 Years of Experience $45.15
20 Years or More Experience $48.77
Average $38.76



39. How Much Do Rhode Island Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($42.43)


Rhode Island RNs earn an average of $42.45 per hour. Most RNs begin their careers in the state earning around $31.37 hourly. With time and continued experience, pay increases an average of $5 to $7 every five to ten years, with most capping their income at $50.38 per hour.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $31.37
1-4 Years of Experience $36.74
5-9 Years of Experience $41.33
10-19 Years of Experience $48.98
20 Years or More Experience $50.38
Average $42.43



40. How Much Do South Carolina Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($35.74)


In South Carolina, the hourly pay for registered nurses begins at approximately $25.30 for new nurses and increases to as much as $44.80 for RNs with the most experience (20 years or more). The average hourly pay for RNs in South Carolina is $35.74.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $25.30
1-4 Years of Experience $30.58
5-9 Years of Experience $36.35
10-19 Years of Experience $39.70
20 Years or More Experience $44.80
Average $35.74



41. How Much Do South Dakota Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($31.01)


South Dakota RNs earn entry-level pay of approximately $24.64 and earn nearly $39 at the highest reported rate. The average hourly pay for registered nurses in the state is $31.01.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $24.64
1-4 Years of Experience $25.73
5-9 Years of Experience $30.25
10-19 Years of Experience $35.90
20 Years or More Experience $38.88
Average $31.01



42. How Much Do Tennessee Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($34.85)


In Tennessee, the average hourly salary for registered nurses is $34.85. The per-hour rate ranges between $24.65 and $45.91, depending on the years of work experience you have as a nurse.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $24.65
1-4 Years of Experience $29.56
5-9 Years of Experience $31.63
10-19 Years of Experience $38.18
20 Years or More Experience $45.91
Average $34.85



43. How Much Do Texas Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($40.54)


Texas RNs start out making about $29.79 per hour and see steady increases in pay. With one to four years of experience as a Texas registered nurse, you can make $32.12, and with 10 to 19 years, your pay can increase to as much as $46.27. The average registered nurse salary per hour in Texas is $40.54.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $29.79
1-4 Years of Experience $32.12
5-9 Years of Experience $38.38
10-19 Years of Experience $46.27
20 Years or More Experience $50.61
Average $40.54



44. How Much Do Utah Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($36.73)


In Utah, new registered nurses make entry-level wages of approximately $29.74 and, with continued experience in the field, can earn as much as $47.12. The average hourly pay for RNs in Utah is $36.73.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $29.74
1-4 Years of Experience $31.04
5-9 Years of Experience $37.14
10-19 Years of Experience $39.97
20 Years or More Experience $47.12
Average $36.73



45. How Much Do Vermont Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($38.46)


Registered nurses in Vermont make an average hourly wage of $38.46, which is approximately $9 more than the entry-level pay for RNs in the state. The highest-paid RNs in Vermont have 10 to 20 (or more) years of experience, earning wages between $43.57 and $48.83.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $29.28
1-4 Years of Experience $32.26
5-9 Years of Experience $37.13
10-19 Years of Experience $43.57
20 Years or More Experience $48.83
Average $38.46



46. How Much Do Virginia Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($39.36)


The average registered hourly pay in Virginia is $39.36. RNs often start out earning around $29.79 per hour and can earn more than $50 per hour as they continue to work in the profession and gain experience.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $29.79
1-4 Years of Experience $31.57
5-9 Years of Experience $38.32
10-19 Years of Experience $44.87
20 Years or More Experience $50.20
Average $39.36



47. How Much Do Washington Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($48.88)


In Washington, registered nurses earn between $37.24 and $63.09 hourly. This pay range makes the average hourly salary for RNs in Washington $48.88.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $37.24
1-4 Years of Experience $39.83
5-9 Years of Experience $48.67
10-19 Years of Experience $57.04
20 Years or More Experience $63.09
Average $48.88



48. How Much Do West Virginia Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($34.73)


West Virginia RNs with no previous work experience make around $22.90 per hour. In just one to four years, the pay increases to nearly $29 per hour, and with 10 to 20 years, RNs can make between $38.30 and $46.38 hourly. The average hourly pay for registered nurses in West Virginia is $34.73.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $22.90
1-4 Years of Experience $28.98
5-9 Years of Experience $35.65
10-19 Years of Experience $38.30
20 Years or More Experience $46.38
Average $34.73



49. How Much Do Wisconsin Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($38.94)


On average, Wisconsin registered nurses make $38.94 per hour. Entry-level RNs are reported to make $31.31 an hour, while those with at least 20 years of experience earn more than $48 hourly.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $31.31
1-4 Years of Experience $33.09
5-9 Years of Experience $38.34
10-19 Years of Experience $42.27
20 Years or More Experience $48.47
Average $38.94



50. How Much Do Wyoming Registered Nurses Make An Hour: ($38.95)


In Wyoming, new registered nurses make around $29.28 hourly. Within just five years, RNs can earn as much as $37.37 per hour. The average hourly pay for registered nurses in the state is $38.95.

Level of
Experience
Salary
Per Hour
Entry-Level $29.28
1-4 Years of Experience $31.38
5-9 Years of Experience $37.37
10-19 Years of Experience $40.62
20 Years or More Experience $49.04
Average $38.95



In What States Do Registered Nurses Make the Highest Average Salary Per Hour?


The top 10 states for hourly RN pay are California, Hawaii, Oregon, Massachusetts, Alaska, Washington, New York, New Jersey, Nevada, and Connecticut. Among these states, the hourly pay for registered nurses ranges from $45.32 to $64.10.

Rank State Average
Salary Per Hour
1 California $64.10
2 Hawaii $54.43
3 Oregon $51.26
4 Massachusetts $50.07
5 Alaska $49.67
6 Washington $48.88
7 New York $48.14
8 New Jersey $46.48
9 Nevada $46.30
10 Connecticut $45.32



In What States Do Registered Nurses Make the Lowest Average Salary Per Hour?


The states with the lowest per-hour RN wage include South Dakota, Arkansas, Alabama, Mississippi, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, West Virginia, Tennessee, and Nebraska. Pay in these states is between $31.01 and $35.34, with South Dakota compensating RNs the least per hour.

Rank State Average
Salary Per Hour
1 South Dakota $31.01
2 Arkansas $31.98
3 Alabama $32.17
4 Mississippi $32.66
5 Iowa $33.35
6 Missouri $34.55
7 Kansas $34.61
8 West Virginia $34.73
9 Tennessee $34.85
10 Nebraska $35.34



Bonus! 5 Ways Registered Nurses Can Maximize Their Salary Per Hour?


Many nurses look for ways to make extra money or increase their potential for earning. The following are some of the best ways you can maximize your salary per hour as a registered nurse.

WAY #1: Take on overtime opportunities.

The easiest and most common way to maximize your per-hour salary as a registered nurse is to work overtime. If your facility is short-staffed or needs someone to fill in, you can make good money working overtime. Some employers try to offer paid time off instead of the time and a half overtime rate, but if they are truly in need of help, you can usually negotiate the hourly pay instead of accumulating extra time off.

WAY #2: Earn a specialty certification.

An excellent way to increase your income is to become certified in a specialty area. There are many certifications available for registered nurses of all degree levels. Some healthcare employers offer employee training and certification opportunities, or you could earn certification using the services of a credentialing agency, such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center, to become certified.

WAY #3: Opt to work the evening or night shift.

Many healthcare facilities offer shift differential pay for nurses who work the evening or night shifts. The pay difference per shift may vary, depending on whether you work evenings or nights, with nights usually paying more. If you do not have children at home who need you in the evening or at night, this is an excellent option to increase your income per hour.

WAY #4: Do some freelance writing.

If you want to make some extra money and enjoy sharing your knowledge and experience with others, you could do some freelance writing. Some writing contracts pay per job. Others offer a per-word or per-hour rate. Either way, writing is an awesome way to boost your earning potential, and even better... you can do it from the comfort of your home!

WAY #5: Become a travel nurse.

Travel nursing has become a popular option for many registered nurses. It offers the opportunity to work in various places while seeing the country (or the world) and earn an excellent income. Whether you choose to take on a few short-term travel nursing contracts to boost your overall income or work as a travel nurse full-time, the pay is excellent.



My Final Thoughts


Whether you are a registered nurse or considering becoming one, it is normal to wonder, “How much does a registered nurse make an hour?” In this article, I provided a breakdown of how much registered nurses make an hour by state in 2025. Using this information, you can decide if nursing is the career for you, or if you are already an RN, you may use the figures in this article to decide if moving to a new location could help you increase your income.



Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Our Expert


1. In Which State Do Registered Nurses Make The Highest Average Salary Per Hour?

The state with the highest per-hour pay for registered nurses is California. RNs in this state earn an average of $64.10 per hour.

California
$64.10


2. In Which State Do Registered Nurses Make The Average Lowest Salary Per Hour?

South Dakota pays the lowest hourly rate for registered nurses in the nation, which is $31.01.

South Dakota
$31.01


3. In Which Northeastern State Do Registered Nurses Make The Highest Average Salary Per Hour?

RNs in Massachusetts earn the highest hourly rate of any northeastern state. Here, RNs make $50.07 on average.

Massachusetts
$50.07


4. In Which Northeastern State Do Registered Nurses Make The Lowest Average Salary Per Hour?

Maine registered nurses earn the lowest wage among all states in the northeastern region of the U.S. The pay for RNs in Maine is approximately $37.22 per hour.

Maine
$37.22


5. In Which Midwestern State Do Registered Nurses Make The Highest Average Salary Per Hour?

The highest hourly pay for RNs in the midwestern United States is $42.72 and is offered in Minnesota.

Minnesota
$42.72


6. In Which Midwestern State Do Registered Nurses Make The Lowest Average Salary Per Hour?

South Dakota pays the lowest hourly rate for RNs in the midwestern part of the country, with registered nurses in this state earning an average of $31.01 hourly.

South Dakota
$31.01


7. In Which Southeastern State Do Registered Nurses Make The Highest Average Salary Per Hour?

Registered nurses in Georgia earn $40.95 per hour, the highest hourly pay in the southeastern part of the U.S.

Georgia
$40.95


8. In Which Southeastern State Do Registered Nurses Make The Lowest Average Salary Per Hour?

Arkansas RNs earn the lowest hourly pay in the southeastern U.S., with pay averaging $31.98 per hour.

Arkansas
$31.98


9. In Which Southwestern State Do Registered Nurses Make The Highest Average Salary Per Hour?

In the southwestern part of the U.S., registered nurses in Arizona earn the best wages, making an average hourly salary of $41.70.

Arizona
$41.70


10. In Which Southwestern State Do Registered Nurses Make The Lowest Average Salary Per Hour?

Oklahoma RNs earn an average of $36.98 per hour, the least among other states in the southwestern portion of the country.

Oklahoma
$36.98


11. In Which Western State Do Registered Nurses Make The Highest Average Salary Per Hour?

The highest hourly pay for registered nurses in Western states is offered in California. RNs in the Golden State make an average hourly salary of $64.10.

California
$64.10


12. In Which Western State Do Registered Nurses Make The Lowest Average Salary Per Hour?

Utah is the western state with the lowest average hourly pay for RNs. In Utah, registered nurses earn around $36.73 per hour, on average.

Utah
$36.73


13. On Average, How Much Do Travel Registered Nurses Make An Hour?

On average, travel registered nurses make $57.77 per hour.

Salary Per Hour
$57.77


Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA
Darby Faubion is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty years of experience. She has assisted in developing curriculum for nursing programs and has instructed students at both community college and university levels. Because of her love of nursing education, Darby became a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach and assists nursing graduates across the United States who are preparing to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).