Is Being A Nurse Worth It – (A Nurses’ Tell All)
Written By:
Darby Faubion
Darby 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 interested in becoming a nurse but not sure if it is the right path for you professionally? Does what you know about nursing make you wonder, “Is being a nurse worth it?” I understand that feeling, which is why I believe you have found the perfect article!
I have been a nurse for over 25 years, and I want to share my personal experience and insight into nursing to help you decide if this is the career for you. As you read, you will discover a list of 25 reasons why being a nurse is worth it and 10 reasons why being a nurse is not worth it and find answers to some frequently asked questions. When you finish this article, you will have enough information to help you decide if moving forward to becoming a nurse is worth it for you.
What is a Nurse?
Technically speaking, a nurse is a person who has completed a formal training program focused on nursing care and
passed the
National Council Licensure Examination to become licensed. Nurses are the backbone of the healthcare industry. They provide hands-on care, emotional support, and education to patients and their loved ones and work alongside other members of the healthcare team.
Top 3 Pros of Why You Should Know Whether Being a Nurse is Worth It or Not
Before committing to becoming a nurse, it is important to decide whether being a nurse is worth it or not for you. If you compare the
pros and cons of being a nurse to what you want to accomplish in your career, you can decide based on what is best for you personally. The following are three of the top reasons why you should know whether being a nurse is worth it or not.
PRO #1: You want to choose a career that satisfies you personally and professionally.
One of the most important reasons you should know if being a nurse is worth it is being able to weigh whether the career will fulfill you personally and professionally. If you do your research and determine if being a nurse is worth it or not, you can make a decision you are more likely to be happy with. Conversely, if you jump into nursing (or any career) without getting enough information, you could regret your decision.
PRO #2: You need to know if the income potential is something you can live with.
One factor that most people say is most important when choosing a career is income potential. It is a good idea to research your earning potential based on the type of nurse you want to be to determine if being a nurse is worth it for you or not. If you need to earn a particular amount to meet your financial obligations and goals, you should consider the different types of nurse you can become and specialty areas that may pay more.
PRO #3: You do not want to pay for an education that leads to a career you do not want.
Nursing school can be expensive, depending on the type of nursing degree you pursue. It is important to decide whether nursing is worth it to you or not before investing your money in a career path. If you find that nursing is right for you, you will find the cost is worth the return on your investment. However, if you are unsure, there are other career paths you can choose that may not cost as much, and that will leave you satisfied with your decision.
Why is Being a Nurse Worth It?
(The following are the 25 reasons why being a nurse is worth it.)
REASON #1: You can help people for a living.
One of the top reasons why being a nurse is worth it is that you can help people. The care and support you provide to patients and their families is unmatched by any other professional. Each day, you will encounter people who need your help and support in some way or another.
REASON #2: There is excellent potential for advancement.
If you are looking for a career with potential for professional growth, nursing is an excellent choice. There are endless opportunities to increase your education and advance in your role or take on new roles in nursing. Whether you apply to move into management or leadership roles or pursue a graduate degree and become an advanced practice registered nurse, there is always room to move ahead!
REASON #3: There is a high demand for nurses.
There is a high demand for nurses nationwide, which means finding a job should be fairly easy. One of the reasons the demand for nurses is so high is that the baby boomer generation is reaching retirement age, and their retirement leaves jobs open and in need of nurses. Also, more people have access to healthcare today, which is driving the need for qualified nurses to provide care.
REASON #4: You can travel while working.
Do you like traveling and experiencing new places, and meeting new people? If so, you can do that as a travel nurse. One of the biggest reasons why being a nurse is worth it is that you do not have to be tied to one place all the time. Travel nurses can work nationally or abroad and have the option of choosing when they want to work while still earning an
excellent income.
REASON #5: What you do can make a difference.
As a nurse, you will work alongside teams of healthcare professionals to improve the lives of others. You will encourage patients and your peers. You will experience life-changing events, both good and bad, and often be the voice of encouragement for hurting people. If you want a job where you can truly make a difference for others, being a nurse is worth it.
REASON #6: Your job is never boring!
If you like being busy and do not mind the “unexpected,” nursing could be a great career choice for you. Even in the most relaxed work settings, nursing is never boring. You may have days where things are quiet and easygoing. Then, you will have days when it seems like you do not have time for a break because so many people need your attention and care. To say nursing is never boring is almost an understatement!
REASON #7: You can choose to specialize.
Another of the top reasons why being a nurse is worth it is that you are not limited to one type of nursing. You have the option of choosing to specialize in an area or areas that interest you most. For example, if you enjoy working with the elderly, you can specialize in geriatrics. Nurses who prefer to work with children can earn a pediatric nurse certification. You could choose to specialize and become a cardiovascular nurse, emergency nurse, obstetrics nurse, and surgical nurse.
REASON #8: Nursing is a stable industry.
Heathcare is one of the most stable work industries. Nurses are essential healthcare workers with in-demand skills. Even in times of economic crisis or recession, there is a need for healthcare workers, which means nursing is an excellent career for anyone desiring to work in a stable industry with long-term job security. If you are looking for a career where you do not have to worry about finding a job or having chances to advance, being a nurse is worth it.
REASON #9: The income potential is excellent.
Income potential is another of the biggest reasons why being a nurse is worth it. According to the
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual income for registered nurses is $89,010. The longer you work as a nurse, the higher your earning potential becomes. Also, by becoming certified in a specialty, working in high-risk areas, or taking evening or night shifts, you can earn more.
REASON #10: Your career skills are transferable.
Some of the most basic nursing skills are skills you can use in any career. For example, early in your nursing program, you will learn to demonstrate effective communication, critical thinking, and decision-making skills. Even if you decide to transition your career to a new path, these essential nursing skills are transferable and will make you a valuable candidate for other jobs or positions.
REASON #11: You can work with a variety of people.
If you enjoy meeting and getting to know new people, being a nurse is worth it. Nurses work with people from different backgrounds, which makes work interesting and exciting. You will have opportunities to learn about different cultures and beliefs.
REASON #12: You can choose a flexible schedule.
Because nursing offers so many versatile roles and job opportunities, many nurses have the option of choosing the type of schedule they want to work. Granted, some positions may come with set schedules, but many employers offer nurses different scheduling options. For example, I once worked at a facility where I worked four days on, three days off, then three days on, three days off. That schedule allowed me to have every other weekend off work. Some nurses work three twelve-hour shifts, and others work a week on and a week off. The options are usually endless and depend on the setting where you are employed.
REASON #13: You will have endless learning opportunities.
One of the things I love about nursing, and one of the top reasons why being a nurse is worth it to me, is that you never stop learning. As the healthcare landscape changes, the way we nurse changes, as well. Nurses must commit to lifelong learning, which means there is endless potential for growth and development. Plus, the more you learn, the more valuable you become as an employee and as a caregiver for those who need you.
REASON #14: There are many avenues to receive your education and training.
Another top reason being a nurse is worth it is you have so many options for earning your degree and completing training. Whether you want to start your career as a licensed practical nurse and move up to a registered nurse or go straight to your RN degree, you have choices! Some nursing programs offer online classes, campus-based classes, or hybrid programs that combine both online and distance learning. If you want to become a nurse, there will be at least one avenue for earning your degree that works for you.
REASON #15: Nursing is a respected career.
Nursing is one of the most respected careers in America. According to data gathered by
Gallup Honesty and Ethics Poll, nurses are respected for honesty and ethical behavior, with 79% of American adults saying nurses have “high” or “very high” honest and ethical standards. Nurses are known for valuing the trust instilled in them by patients and the public, which drives them to protect and serve those in need. If working in a field that is known for doing good, being a nurse is worth it!
REASON #16: You can choose a clinical or non-clinical role.
Another great thing about nursing is that you are not limited to bedside nursing. If you want to provide hands-on patient care, you can work in a clinical role. However, if you prefer to use your nursing degree, knowledge, and experience in a non-clinical role, there are many options. For example, you can work as a legal nurse consultant, nurse researcher, nurse educator, or freelance writer. There really is no limit to the options you have as a nurse.
REASON #17: You can boost your income with per diem jobs.
Because there is always a need for qualified nurses, you can take advantage of a side hustle or per diem job to boost your income. In fact, many side jobs pay as much, if not more, than some regular nursing jobs. You may find opportunities with your current employer to fill in for nurses on vacation or who are out sick, or you could work contract jobs on days off from your regular job. Either way, if you want to boost your nursing income, per diem jobs are an excellent way to do so.
REASON #18: Nurses typically have excellent benefits packages.
If you are searching for a career that has added benefits, you will find being a nurse is worth it. Although benefits packages may vary from one employer to the next, most healthcare facilities offer nurses excellent benefits for nurses. Some benefits packages can be worth tens of thousands of dollars yearly and include things such as medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid sick leave, and paid vacation time. Many employers pay for continuing education credits for nurses and offer incentives to those who choose to earn a higher degree.
REASON #19: You will have an amazing sense of accomplishment.
Nursing is a rewarding job that gives you a true sense of fulfillment. Whether you are working with critically ill patients, monitoring vital signs, or educating patients and their caregivers, you can feel accomplished as a nurse, which is one of the biggest reasons why being a nurse is worth it.
REASON #20: You will be a part of something bigger.
When you become a nurse, you have the chance to be part of something much bigger than yourself. The role you play in the lives of others, from patients to peers, can have a significant impact. You will share in some of the most critical times in people's lives, from births to deaths, sickness, recovery, and other important milestones. Everything you do as a nurse will touch someone else's life in some way.
REASON #21: You will develop lifelong connections.
Another benefit of nursing is that you do more than take care of sick people. You develop friendships and connections that, in many cases, last a lifetime. Some connections you make may be with coworkers and professional peers. Even if you move on to another job later, the connections usually last. Also, there are many times that we develop bonds with the patients and families we care for. I can’t describe how awesome a feeling it is to be out somewhere and have someone walk up to me who remembers when I cared for them or their friend/family member. Even when you think people have forgotten you, chances are, they have not.
REASON #22: You can advocate for others in need.
One of the greatest reasons being a nurse is worth it is that you can stand up for people in need. Advocacy is something all nurses do. We advocate for patients, their loved ones, our peers, and our profession. You can advocate for patients by working with doctors and other team members to find the best treatment plan, speaking up on their behalf when they are afraid, or working to implement new measures at work that promote their safety and well-being. You can advocate for yourself, your peers, and the profession by representing
the qualities of a good nurse, promoting measures to improve working conditions, or lobbying for changes that make the nursing job easier and safer.
REASON #23: You can pursue leadership roles in the profession.
Nursing is filled with opportunities to grow and advance. With experience, you can pursue leadership roles in nursing. A few options for
leadership in nursing include being a Director of Nursing, Hospital Administrator,
Chief Nursing Officer, Patient Care Director, and Chief Nursing Informatics Officer.
REASON #24: You can educate future nurses.
If you enjoy mentoring others, you can use your nursing degree and expertise to become a nurse educator. Nurse educators work in various settings. You may find a position at a community college or university or work as an in-house educator at a large healthcare facility. The job you perform teaching and preparing future nurses to enter the field can impact patients and the profession for years.
REASON #25: You may be able to open your own business.
If you want to open a business related to anything dealing with health, being a nurse is worth it. Nurses start businesses every day. Your level of education, experience, and training will determine the type of business you should open as a nurse, but the possibilities are endless. For example, you could own a business and become a Nurse Health Coach, Fitness Nurse, Nurse Blogger, or Online Nurse Consultant.
Why is Being a Nurse Not Worth It?
(The following are the 10 reasons why being a nurse is not worth it.)
REASON #1: Nursing can be very stressful.
As rewarding as nursing can be, the job is often quite stressful. If you do not have good coping skills or become easily overwhelmed, there may be days when nursing seems too hard. In fact, the stress of the job is one of the top reasons why being a nurse is not worth it to some people.
REASON #2: Nursing shortages mean you may have to work overtime.
We all like the idea of making extra money but usually prefer it to be on our own terms. When nurses call in sick for work or just do not show up, you may get stuck covering for them. If you do not want to work extra hours or feel overworked, it can be frustrating having to work for someone else. For many nurses, this leads to dissatisfaction and feelings of the job being too much to deal with.
REASON #3: You could be exposed to infectious diseases.
One of the biggest reasons why being a nurse is not worth it is that you could be at risk for exposure to communicable illnesses or diseases. Even the most cautious nurses are at risk of exposure. If you work in a high-risk area, such as an emergency room, your risk increases. Some people worry that the risks of nursing are too high and that being a nurse is not worth it.
REASON #4: You cannot choose who you will provide care for.
When I was in nursing school, I had a classmate who did very well in the beginning. However, when we got to the clinical component of our program, she stated to the instructor, “There are some people I just can’t care for.” As you can imagine, she didn’t make it through the program. As a nurse, we cannot choose who is worthy of being our patient and who is not. If you have issues with people of certain cultures, religions, or backgrounds that would cause you to not want to care for them, you may find being a nurse is not worth it.
REASON #5: You cannot save everyone.
If you like the idea of becoming a nurse so you can make a difference, that is great. However, it is crucial that you understand not every patient lives. There will be times that, despite your best efforts, patients die. If you cannot handle that reality, deal with the loss, and move on, being a nurse is not worth it.
REASON #6: You NEVER stop learning!
Being a nurse means being committed to lifelong learning. If you want a career where you can go to school, get a degree, find a job, and never have to step foot into another classroom or take another test, you may want to reconsider becoming a nurse. In fact, nursing requires the opposite of you. If you do not enjoy learning, it is safe to say being a nurse is not worth it for you.
REASON #7: Some patients are rude and unappreciative.
One of the most frustrating things about nursing is that, even when you do your best or go the extra mile, you will have some patients who are never satisfied. In my 20+ years of nursing, I have been hit, bit, tripped, and had bodily fluids thrown at me more times than I can remember. Whether a patient is in their right mind or not, when things like that happen, it does not make dealing with it any easier. If you expect every day to be perfect and everyone you care for to show appreciation for you, you may want to consider another career.
REASON #8: Nursing can be physically demanding work.
On any given day as a nurse, you may move heavy patients or equipment and be on your feet for hours at a time. Your legs and back will ache, and your feet will throb. Of course, you can wear support stockings, good shoes, and comfortable uniforms, but the physical demands of the job can still take their toll. The physical demands of the job are among the top reasons why being a nurse is not worth it for many people.
REASON #9: It is often hard to separate your personal life from your professional life.
One of the hardest lessons for me to learn as a new nurse was where to draw the line between my job and my personal life. This is especially hard if you work in a setting where you care for the same patients for long periods, such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or hospices. In these settings, you could care for patients for months or years, which means it becomes easier to develop attachments. While caring for patients and their loved ones and developing friendships is okay, it is also vital that nurses know how to separate their personal and professional lives. If you have issues with getting too attached to people or too involved in others' lives, you may find nursing challenging.
REASON #10: You have to deal with people ALL DAY!
Nursing is very much a “hands-on” profession. Even if you do not provide direct patient care, chances are, you will deal with people throughout your day...every day. People who are loners or prefer to work independently away from others often say this is one of the biggest reasons why being a nurse is not worth it for them. I would advise you to carefully consider how much interaction you like with others, especially people you do not know, before deciding on a career as a nurse.
What is the Job Satisfaction Like for Nurses?
Although job satisfaction ratings vary by area of specialization, overall, nurses report being satisfied with their jobs. According to a
2023 Survey of Registered Nurses by American Healthcare, 71% of nurses report being satisfied with their jobs. In most cases, the job satisfaction rate among nurses working in clinical versus non-clinical is close. The main factors that contribute to nurse dissatisfaction are more related to working conditions, which include nursing shortages and workplace stress.
What is the Demand Like for Nurses for the Next 10 Years?
The demand for nurses has a good ten-year outlook, with job growth between 6.24% and 45.68% among different types of nurses. The number of new jobs is projected to be between 600 and 195,400. For example, Licensed Practical Nurses can expect a 6.27% increase with an average of 41,300 new jobs, and Registered Nurses will see a 6.24% increase with 195,400 jobs added.
Type of Nurse | Employment | Employment Growth (2021-2031) |
2021 | 2031 | Number | % |
Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse (LPN/LVN) | 657,200 | 698,500 | +41,300 | +6.28% |
Nurse Educator (NE) | 87,000 | 105,700 | +18,700 | +21.49% |
Registered Nurse (RN) | 3,130,600 | 3,326,000 | +195,400 | +6.24% |
Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) | 8,100 | 8,700 | +600 | +7.41% |
Nurse Practitioner (NP) | 246,700 | 359,400 | +112,700 | +45.68% |
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) | 45,200 | 50,500 | +5,300 | +11.73% |
((Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)) |
How Many Annual Job Openings are There for Nurses?
There are between 500 and 203,200 annual job openings for nurses. Certified Nurse Midwives typically see an average of 500 job openings. Nurse Practitioners and Licensed Practical Nurses experience between 26,800 and 58,800, respectively. Job openings that occur include new jobs created and replacement jobs, such as those left vacant by retiring nurses or those transitioning to other roles or careers.
Type of Nurse | New Jobs | Replacement Jobs | Annual Job Openings (New + Replacement) |
Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse | 4,130 | 54,670 | 58,800 |
Nurse Educator | 1,870 | 8,030 | 9,900 |
Registered Nurse | 19,540 | 183,660 | 203,200 |
Certified Nurse Midwife | 60 | 440 | 500 |
Nurse Practitioner | 11,270 | 15,530 | 26,800 |
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist | 530 | 2,370 | 2,900 |
((Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)) |
What is the Starting Salary for New Nurses?
The starting salary for new nurses ranges between $40,490 and $143,870, depending on the type of nurse. New RNs typically earn $61,260 per year, which equals $29.45 per hour, $1,178 per week, or $5,100 per month. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists earn the highest new nurse wages, with an average of $69.17 per hour, $2,767 per week, or $11,990 per month.
Type of Nurse | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse | $19.47 | $779 | $3,370 | $40,490 |
Nurse Educator | $22.96 | $918 | $3,980 | $47,760 |
Registered Nurse | $29.45 | $1,178 | $5,100 | $61,250 |
Certified Nurse Midwife | $37.26 | $1,491 | $6,460 | $77,510 |
Nurse Practitioner | $41.99 | $1,680 | $7,280 | $87,340 |
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist | $69.17 | $2,767 | $11,990 | $143,870 |
((Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)) |
What is the Average Salary for Experienced Nurses?
The average salary for experienced nurses is between $55,860 and $205,770. Nurses earn hourly pay ranging from $26.86 for LPN/LVNs to $98.93 for CRNAs. Nurse practitioners earn the middle salary among all nurses, with an average annual income of $124,680.
Type of Nurse | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse | $26.86 | $1,074 | $4,660 | $55,860 |
Nurse Educator | $40.47 | $1,619 | $7,020 | $84,180 |
Registered Nurse | $42.79 | $1,712 | $7,420 | $89,010 |
Certified Nurse Midwife | $58.87 | $2,355 | $10,200 | $122,450 |
Nurse Practitioner | $59.94 | $2,398 | $10,390 | $124,680 |
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist | $98.93 | $3,957 | $17,150 | $205,770 |
((Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)) |
How Much Does the Salary for Nurses Grow With Experience?
When it comes to income potential, experience makes a big difference. For instance, entry-level Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses earn approximately $40,490. With just five years of experience, they can earn nearly $55,000, and with 20 years or more of experience, LPN/LVNs make approximately $72,650 per year. Registered nurses earn from $77,510 to $129,400, on average, based on experience. Certified Nurse Midwives, Nurse Practitioners, and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists earn from $77,510 to more than $239,200, based on years of experience.
Level of Experience | LPN/LVN | NE | RN | CNM | NP | CRNA |
Entry-Level | $40,490 | $47,760 | $61,250 | $77,510 | $87,340 | $143,870 |
1-4 Years of Experience | $47,800 | $61,800 | $66,680 | $102,510 | $103,250 | $174,190 |
5-9 Years of Experience | $54,620 | $78,580 | $81,220 | $120,880 | $121,610 | $203,090 |
10-19 Years of Experience | $62,110 | $100,630 | $101,100 | $137,010 | $135,470 | $227,160 |
20 Years or More Experience | $72,650 | $127,290 | $129,400 | $171,230 | $165,240 | >$239,200 |
((Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)) |
So, is Being a Nurse Worth It Financially – My Personal Opinion
Even with entry-level salaries, nurses earn good incomes. When you factor in that with years of experience comes increased earning potential, the financial aspect makes perfect sense. Additionally, your job title and any certifications you have create opportunities for higher income. Therefore, in my opinion, being a nurse is worth it financially.
My Final Thoughts
If you are thinking of becoming a nurse, chances are you have thought of lots of questions. For most people, the question, “Is being a nurse worth it?” is one of the most pressing. In this article, you learned 25 reasons why being a nurse is worth it and 10 reasons why being a nurse is not worth it. Nursing takes hard work and commitment, but I believe every difficult day and challenge is worth it if we can help just one person!
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Our Expert
1. What Is The Best Age To Start Working As A Nurse?
There is no age that is "best" to start working as a nurse. In my opinion, when you feel you are ready to dedicate yourself to the hard work it takes to become a nurse, that’s when you should start. Everyone is different, so the time that is best for you may be different for someone else.
2. Is It Hard Work Being A Nurse?
Being a nurse is hard sometimes, but it is also a very rewarding career.
3. Can Nurses Have A Life?
Absolutely! Nurses can have a life. In fact, I recommend all nurses intentionally make time for family, friends, and
self-care. Doing this helps you stay physically and mentally well, which means you will be better at your job.
4. What Are The Top 3 Negatives Of Being A Nurse?
I believe every nurse has their own opinion about the top three negatives of being a nurse. For many, the top negatives include witnessing the loss of a patient, dealing with abuse or neglect cases, and the physical and emotional strain nurses experience.
5. Is Being A Nurse Bad For Mental Health?
Nursing is not necessarily bad for mental health. However, everyone deals with stress and anxiety differently. It is important to know your limits and identify when you need a break. The most important thing a nurse can do for themself is to practice physical and mental self-care.
6. Is Being A Nurse Fun?
Although there will be times that require you to be serious or situations that are uncomfortable, every day in nursing is not so. You can certainly have fun as a nurse! (I recommend it!)
7. Will I Ever Regret Being A Nurse?
The satisfaction or regret of being a nurse is a subjective feeling. Therefore, I cannot tell you if you will ever regret being a nurse. What I can tell you is that, overall, most nurses are satisfied with their career choices.
8. What Is The #1 Reason For Nurses Quitting?
Several factors lead to
nurses quitting the profession. The most common reason most nurses give for quitting is stressful working conditions.
9. How Many Nurses Quit In The First Year?
According to the
American Nurses Association,
“nearly 18% of newly licensed registered nurses quit the profession within the first year.”
10. On Average, How Much Does A Nurse Make Per Hour?
On average, nurses earn between $26.86 and $98.93 per hour, depending on their degree level and role.
Type of Nurse | Hourly Salary |
Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse | $26.86 |
Nurse Educator | $40.47 |
Registered Nurse | $42.79 |
Certified Nurse Midwife | $58.87 |
Nurse Practitioner | $59.94 |
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist | $98.93 |
11. On Average, How Much Does A Nurse Make Per Week?
The average weekly pay for nurses ranges from $1,074 to $3,957.
Type of Nurse | Weekly Salary |
Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse | $1,074 |
Nurse Educator | $1,619 |
Registered Nurse | $1,712 |
Certified Nurse Midwife | $2,355 |
Nurse Practitioner | $2,398 |
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist | $3,957 |
12. On Average, How Much Does A Nurse Make Per Month?
The monthly pay for nurses, on average, is between $4,660 and $17,150, with LPN/LVNs being the lowest paid and CRNAs being the highest.
Type of Nurse | Monthly Salary |
Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse | $4,660 |
Nurse Educator | $7,020 |
Registered Nurse | $7,420 |
Certified Nurse Midwife | $10,200 |
Nurse Practitioner | $10,390 |
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist | $17,150 |
13. On Average, How Much Does A Nurse Make Per Year?
The average annual salary for nurses ranges from $55,860 to $205,770.
Type of Nurse | Annual Salary |
Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse | $55,860 |
Nurse Educator | $84,180 |
Registered Nurse | $89,010 |
Certified Nurse Midwife | $122,450 |
Nurse Practitioner | $124,680 |
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist | $205,770 |
14. Are All Nurses Successful In Their Careers?
Unfortunately, like all careers, not all nurses are successful.
15. Is Being A Nurse Stressful?
Being a nurse can be quite stressful. You have a lot of responsibility caring for others. However, the rewards and satisfaction are something I feel make the job well worth the stress.
16. Are Nurses Satisfied With Their Jobs?
Overall, nurses are satisfied with their jobs.
17. Are Nurses Well Respected?
Yes, according to the Gallup Honesty and Ethics Poll, nursing is one of the most respected and
trusted professions in America.
18. Can Nurses Become Rich?
Depending on your salary and spending habits, you can become financially stable as a nurse. With proper financial management, being rich is a possibility for anyone.
19. What Kind Of Career Advancement Opportunities Do Nurses Have?
Nurses have unlimited opportunities for career advancement. Your advancement will depend on the type of nursing degree you have. You may work as a
Director of Nursing, Charge Nurse, Team Leader, or Hospital Administrator, to name a few options.
20. What Are The Best Alternatives Careers To Being A Nurse?
There are many alternatives to being a nurse. A few examples include health writer, nutritionist, health service administrator, occupational therapist, and respiratory therapist.
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).