Pediatric Nurse Salary By State – (2024 Figures)


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 with a love for pediatrics? Have you considered becoming a pediatric nurse but have questions? If so, I imagine one of the first questions you may ask is, “How much does a pediatric nurse make?” As a nurse, I understand it is not always about the amount of our paychecks. However, we all want a job that helps us financially instead of leaving us feeling burdened.

In this article, I am going to share information with you about the pediatric nurse salary in 2024 for each state in the U.S. I will also provide some insight into which cities and states pay the highest pediatric nurse wages, where pediatric nurses rank in earnings compared to other jobs, salary outlook, and ways to increase your earning potential.



What is the Starting Salary of a New Grad Pediatric Nurse?


As with any nursing specialty, new graduate pediatric nurses earn a little less than more experienced pediatric nurses. So, what is the starting salary of a pediatric nurse? According to our research, the starting salary of a pediatric nurse is $60,360 per year. This pay is equal to $29.02 per hour, $1,161 per week, or $5,030 per month.

Starting Pediatric Nurse Salary
Hourly$29.02
Weekly$1,161
Monthly$5,030
Annual$60,360
(Source: Nursingprocess.org)



What is the Average Salary of a Pediatric Nurse With Experience?


After learning the starting salary of a pediatric nurse, you may wonder, “What is the average salary of a pediatric nurse?” The average pediatric nurse salary is $87,720 per year, which equals $42.17 per hour, $1,687 per week, or $7,310 per month.

Average Pediatric Nurse Salary
Hourly$42.17
Weekly$1,687
Monthly$7,310
Annual$87,720
(Source: Nursingprocess.org)



How Much Does the Pediatric Nurse Salary Grow by Years of Experience?


It is common for a pediatric nurse salary to increase as you work and gain more experience. For example, entry-level pediatric nurses earn an average of $60,360 per year. Within the first one to four years, you can expect to see an increase to around $65,710 annually. Every five to ten years thereafter, you will likely see more significant increases in pay. The most experienced pediatric nurses, with 20 years or more of experience, earn an average annual salary of $127,520.

Level of ExperienceHourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
Entry-Level$29.02$1,161$5,030$60,360
1-4 Years of Experience$31.59$1,264$5,480$65,710
5-9 Years of Experience$38.48$1,539$6,670$80,040
10-19 Years of Experience$47.90$1,916$8,300$99,630
20 Years or More Experience$61.31$2,452$10,630$127,520
(Source: Nursingprocess.org)



What is the Average Annual Compensation (Salary + Benefits) for Pediatric Nurses?


One thing I like to encourage nurses to consider when negotiating wages is the type of benefits potential employers offer. In many cases, benefits packages can be worth tens of thousands of dollars each year. For instance, pediatric nurses who work in the private sector earn an average pediatric nurse salary of $87,700 per year, but they have benefits packages worth around $36,697. That means private industry pediatric nurses have an average total compensation of $124,397. Pediatric nurses who work for state or local government settings earn approximately $87,830 per year. In government settings, however, the benefits packages are worth $53,831, on average, making the total compensation equal to $141,661.

ComponentPrivate IndustryState and Local Government
Paid Leave$9,330$10,341
Supplemental Pay$4,603$1,417
Insurance$9,205$16,008
Retirement and Savings$4,230$18,416
Legally Required$9,330$7,650
Total Benefits$36,697$53,831
Average Annual Salary$87,700$87,830
Total Compensation$124,397$141,661
(Source: Nursingprocess.org)



Pediatric Nurse vs. All Other Occupations: Who Earns More?


Compared to all other occupations, pediatric nurse salaries are excellent. All other occupations earn an average of $61,900 per year, while pediatric nurses earn $87,720. This is a difference of $25,820 per year, or 41.71%.

Pediatric NurseAll OccupationsDifference
Number%
$87,720$61,900+$25,820+41.71%



Pediatric Nurse vs. Similar Nursing Jobs: Who Earns More?


Nurse salaries vary based not only on years of experience or work setting but on your chosen specialty, as well. When comparing the average pediatric nurse salary to similar nursing jobs, pediatric nurses earn more than forensic, public health, and school nurses. These nurses earn between $82,570 and $86,360 per year. Conversely, neonatal, ICU, cardiac, dialysis, and labor and delivery nurses are among the nursing specialties that earn more than the average pediatric nurse salary. These nurses’ salaries range from $94,170 to $112,290, a difference of 0.39% to 21.88%.

RankJob TitleAverage
Annual Salary
Difference
Number%
1Neonatal Nurse$112,290-$24,570-21.88%
2Geriatric Nurse$109,970-$22,250-20.23%
3Orthopedic Nurse$108,080-$20,360-18.84%
4ICU Nurse$105,680-$17,960-16.99%
5Cardiac Nurse$104,190-$16,470-15.81%
6Radiology Nurse$103,150-$15,430-14.96%
7Oncology Nurse$102,160-$14,440-14.13%
8ER Nurse$101,340-$13,620-13.44%
9Aesthetic Nurse$100,240-$12,520-12.49%
10Psychiatric Nurse$98,890-$11,170-11.30%
11OB/GYN Nurse$97,270-$9,550-9.82%
12Hospice Nurse$96,570-$8,850-9.16%
13Surgical Nurse$95,320-$7,600-7.97%
16Flight Nurse$94,210-$6,490-6.89%
14Labor and Delivery Nurse$94,170-$6,450-6.85%
15Dermatology Nurse$93,950-$6,230-6.63%
17Occupational Health Nurse$89,180-$1,460-1.64%
18Dialysis Nurse$88,060-$340-0.39%
19Pediatric Nurse$87,720$00.00%
20Forensic Nurse$86,360+$1,360+1.57%
21Public Health Nurse$84,280+$3,440+4.08%
22School Nurse$82,570+$5,150+6.24%



Pediatric Nurse vs. Other Healthcare Jobs: Who Earns More?


Pediatric nurse salaries rank well compared to other healthcare jobs. Jobs such as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Practitioner, Radiation Therapist, and Speech-Language Pathologist earn between $89,460 and $205,770 per year, which is 1.95% to 57.37% higher than the average pediatric nurse salary. On the other hand, pediatric nurses earn between 2,860 and $54,280 more than Certified Nursing Assistants, Dieticians & Nutritionists, Nurse Educators, and Dental Hygienists.

RankJob TitleAverage
Annual Salary
Difference
Number%
1Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist$205,770-$118,050-57.37%
2Physician Assistant$125,270-$37,550-29.98%
3Nurse Practitioner$124,680-$36,960-29.64%
4Nurse Midwife$122,450-$34,730-28.36%
5Radiation Therapist$98,340-$10,620-10.80%
6Occupational Therapist$92,800-$5,080-5.47%
7Speech-Language Pathologist$89,460-$1,740-1.95%
8Pediatric Nurse$87,720$00.00%
9Dental Hygienist$84,860+$2,860+3.37%
10Diagnostic Medical Sonographer$84,410+$3,310+3.92%
11Nurse Educator$84,180+$3,540+4.21%
12Respiratory Therapist$74,310+$13,410+18.05%
13Radiologic Technologist and Technician$70,240+$17,480+24.89%
14Dietitian and Nutritionist$69,350+$18,370+26.49%
15Cardiovascular Technologist and Technician$65,490+$22,230+33.94%
16Physical Therapist Assistant$64,510+$23,210+35.98%
17Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse$55,860+$31,860+57.04%
18Emergency Medical Technician and Paramedic$45,000+$42,720+94.93%
19Medical Assistant$40,700+$47,020+115.53%
20Certified Nursing Assistant$32,440+$55,280+170.41%



What is the Average Pediatric Nurse Salary by State?

(Below, you will find information about the average Pediatric Nurse salary by state in 2024.)

1. Alabama:

The average annual salary of pediatric nurses is $65,940. This pay is equal to $31.70 per hour, $1,268 per week, or $5,500 per month.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$31.70$1,268$5,500$65,940


2. Alaska:

In Alaska, pediatric nurses earn an average of $48.95 per hour, $1,958 per week, or $8,480 per month, which equals $101,810 per year.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$48.95$1,958$8,480$101,810


3. Arizona:

Pediatric nurses in Arizona make approximately $85,480 per year. This pay is equivalent to $7,120 per month, $1,644 per week, or $41.10 per hour.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$41.10$1,644$7,120$85,480


4. Arkansas:

In Arkansas, the average pediatric nurse salary is $65,570, equal to $31.52 per hour, $1,261 per week, or $5,460.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$31.52$1,261$5,460$65,570


5. California:

The average pediatric nurse salary in California is $131,410 per year. This pay breaks down to $10,950 per month, $2,527 per week, or $63.18 per hour.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$63.18$2,527$10,950$131,410


6. Colorado:

In Colorado, pediatric nurses make an average of $41.03 hourly, $1,641 weekly, or $7,110 monthly, which comes to $85,340 annually.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$41.03$1,641$7,110$85,340


7. Connecticut:

Connecticut pediatric nurses earn $92,890 per year, on average. This pay breaks down to equal $7,740 monthly, $1,786 weekly, or $44.66 hourly.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$44.66$1,786$7,740$92,890


8. Delaware:

In Delaware, the average pediatric nurse salary is $83,790, which equals $40.28 per hour, $1,611 per week, and $6,980 per month.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$40.28$1,611$6,980$83,790


9. Florida:

The average pediatric nurse salary in Florida is $78,750 per year. This pay is the equivalent of $37.86 per hour, $1,514 per week, or $6,560 per month.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$37.86$1,514$6,560$78,750


10. Georgia:

In Georgia, pediatric nurses make an average of $40.36 per hour, which comes to a total of $1,614 per week, $7,000 per month, or $83,950 per year.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$40.36$1,614$7,000$83,950


11. Hawaii:

Pediatric nurses working in Hawaii earn $111,580 on average. This pay is equivalent to $53.64 per hour, $2,146 per week, or $9,200 per month.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$53.64$2,146$9,300$111,580


12. Idaho:

The average annual salary for pediatric nurses in Idaho is $77,470, which is equal to $6,460 per month, $1,490 per week, or $37.25 per hour.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$37.25$1,490$6,460$77,470


13. Illinois:

The salary of a pediatric nurse in Illinois is approximately $81,030 per year. This salary is the equivalent of earning $38.96 per hour, $1,558 per week, or $6,750 per month.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$38.96$1,558$6,750$81,030


14. Indiana:

In Indiana, pediatric nurses earn an average of $35.81 per hour, $1,432 per week, $6,210 per month, or $74,480 per year.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$35.81$1,432$6,210$74,480


15. Iowa:

Pediatric nurses who work in Iowa make $32.87 per hour, $1,315 per week, $5,700 per month, or $68,360 per year.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$32.87$1,315$5,700$68,360


16. Kansas:

In Kansas, the average annual income for pediatric nurses is $70,950, which equals $5,910 per month, $1,364 per week, or $34.11 per hour.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$34.11$1,364$5,910$70,950


17. Kentucky:

Pediatric nurses in Kentucky earn approximately $76,500 annually. This pay breaks down to $36.78 per hour, $1,471 per week, or $6,380 per month.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$36.78$1,471$6,380$76,500


18. Louisiana:

Louisiana’s pediatric nurses make an average of $35.97 per hour, which equals $1,439 per week, $6,240 per month, or $74,820 per year.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$35.97$1,439$6,240$74,820


19. Maine:

In Maine, pediatric nurses earn an average annual salary of $76,290, equivalent to $36.68 per hour, $1,467 weekly, or $6,360 monthly.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$36.68$1,467$6,360$76,290


20. Maryland:

The average income for pediatric nurses in Maryland is $86,710 annually, equal to $41.69 hourly, $1,668 weekly, or $7,230 monthly.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$41.69$1,668$7,230$86,710


21. Massachusetts:

The salary for pediatric nurses in Massachusetts averages $102,640 per year. This pay is equivalent to $8,550 per month, $1,974 per week, or $49.35 per hour.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$49.35$1,974$8,550$102,640


22. Michigan:

The average annual salary for pediatric nurses in Michigan is $79,490, which equals $38.22 per hour, $1,529 per week, or $6,620 per month.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$38.22$1,529$6,620$79,490


23. Minnesota:

In Minnesota, pediatric nurses earn approximately $87,570 per year. This pay is equivalent to $42.10 per hour, $1,684 per week, or $7,300 per month.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$42.10$1,684$7,300$87,570


24. Mississippi:

Pediatric nurses working in Mississippi average $32.10 per hour, which comes to $1,288 per week, $5,580 per month, or $66,950 per year.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$32.19$1,288$5,580$66,950


25. Missouri:

Missouri pediatric nurses can expect to earn approximately $70,820 annually. This pay equals $5,900 per month, $1,362 per week, or $34.05 per hour.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$34.05$1,362$5,900$70,820


26. Montana:

The average pay for pediatric nurses in Montana is $37.12 per hour, which is equal to $1,485 per week, $6,430 per month, or $77,210 per year.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$37.12$1,485$6,430$77,210


27. Nebraska:

In Nebraska, pediatric nurses earn an average of $72,440 annually. This pay breaks down to $34.83 per hour, $1,393 per week, or $6,040 per month.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$34.83$1,393$6,040$72,440


28. Nevada:

Pediatric nurses living and working in Nevada make approximately $45.63 per hour, the equivalent of $1,825 per week, $7,910 per month, or $94,910 per year.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$45.63$1,825$7,910$94,910


29. New Hampshire:

The average annual income for pediatric nurses in New Hampshire is $82,210, which equals $6,850 per month, $1,581 per week, or $39.52 per hour.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$39.52$1,581$6,850$82,210


30. New Jersey:

In New Jersey, pediatric nurses earn an average of $45.80 per hour, equivalent to $1,832 per week, $7,940 per month, or $95,270 per year.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$45.80$1,832$7,940$95,270


31. New Mexico:

The average income for pediatric nurses in New Mexico is $84,340 annually. This pay equals $7,030 per month, $1,622 per week, or $40.55 per hour.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$40.55$1,622$7,030$84,340


32. New York:

The average pediatric nurse salary in New York is $98,680 per year, which equals $47.44 per hour, $1,898 per week, or $8,220 per month.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$47.44$1,898$8,220$98,680


33. North Carolina:

The salary of a pediatric nurse in North Carolina is $76,300 annually, on average. This salary is equivalent to $36.68 per hour, $1,467 per week, or $6,360 per month.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$36.68$1,467$6,360$76,300


34. North Dakota:

Pediatric nurses in North Dakota make approximately $35.53 per hour, which is the equivalent of $1,421 per week, $6,360 per month, or $73,910 per year.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$35.53$1,421$6,160$73,910


35. Ohio:

The average pediatric nurse salary in Ohio is $77,310 annually, equal to $6,440 per month, $1,487 per week, or $37.17 per hour.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$37.17$1,487$6,440$77,310


36. Oklahoma:

In Oklahoma, pediatric nurses earn an average of $75,810 each year. This pay is equivalent to $36.45 per hour, $1,458 per week, or $6,320 per month.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$36.45$1,458$6,320$75,810


37. Oregon:

If you choose to work in Oregon as a pediatric nurse, you can expect to make an average of $105,060 annually. Broken down, this pay equals $50.51 per hour, $2,020 per week, or $8,760 per month.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$50.51$2,020$8,760$105,060


38. Pennsylvania:

The average pediatric nurse salary in Pennsylvania is $38.20 hourly, $1,528 weekly, or $6,620 monthly, which equals $79,460 per year.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$38.20$1,528$6,620$79,460


39. Rhode Island:

In Rhode Island, pediatric nurses make approximately $86,970 annually. This pay is equal to $41.81 per hour, $1,673 per week, or $7,250 per month.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$41.81$1,673$7,250$86,970


40. South Carolina:

Pediatric nurses who work in South Carolina earn an average of $35.22 per hour, $1,409 per week, or $6,100 per month. This pay totals $73,250 per year.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$35.22$1,409$6,100$73,250


41. South Dakota:

The average annual income for pediatric nurses in South Dakota is $63,570, which equals $5,300 per month, $1,223 per week, or $30.56 per hour.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$30.56$1,223$5,300$63,570


42. Tennessee:

Pediatric nurses in Tennessee make an average of $71,430 per year. This pay is equivalent to $34.34 per hour, $1,374 per week, or $5,950 per month.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$34.34$1,374$5,950$71,430


43. Texas:

The average pediatric nurse salary in Texas is $83,100 annually, equal to $6,930 per month, $1,598 per week, or $39.95 per hour.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$39.95$1,598$6,930$83,100


44. Utah:

In Utah, pediatric nurses earn an average of $36.20 per hour, $1,448 per week, or $6,270 per month, which equals $75,290 per year.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$36.20$1,448$6,270$75,290


45. Vermont:

The average hourly pay for pediatric nurses in Vermont is $37.90. This pay totals $1,516 per week, $6,570 per month, or $78,830 per year.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$37.90$1,516$6,570$78,830


46. Virginia:

In Virginia, pediatric nurses earn approximately $80,670 annually, which is equal to $38.78 per hour, $1,551 per week, or $6,720 per month.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$38.78$1,551$6,720$80,670


47. Washington:

Pediatric nurses in Washington make an average of $100,200 per year, the equivalent of $8,350 per month, $1,927 per week, or $48.17 per hour.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$48.17$1,927$8,350$100,200


48. West Virginia:

In West Virginia, the average annual salary for pediatric nurses is $71,180, which equals $34.22 per hour, $1,369 per week, or $5,930 per month.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$34.22$1,369$5,930$71,180


49. Wisconsin:

Wisconsin pediatric nurses make an average of $38.38 per hour, equal to $1,535 per week, $6,650 per month, or $79,830 per year.

HourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
$38.38$1,535$6,650$79,830


50. Wyoming:

In Wyoming, the average pediatric nurse salary is $79,840 per year, the equivalent of $38.38 hourly, $1,535 per week, or $6,650 per month.

HourlyWeeklyMonthly Annual
$38.38$1,535$6,650$79,840



What is the Average Pediatric Nurse Salary by City?


Pediatric nurse salaries vary from one city to another. Some cities with the lowest pediatric nurse pay include Des Moines, Iowa; Columbus, Georgia, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where salaries range from $70,030 to $73,190. Pediatric nurses earn the most money in California in cities like Oakland, San Francisco, and San Jose. In these cities, pediatric nurses make between $157,700 and $162,370.

CityHourlyWeeklyMonthlyAnnual
Albuquerque, NM$41.34$1,653$7,170$85,980
Anaheim, CA$59.39$2,376$10,290$123,530
Anchorage, AK$48.88$1,955$8,470$101,660
Arlington, TX$41.63$1,665$7,220$86,580
Atlanta, GA$42.77$1,711$7,410$88,960
Aurora, CO$41.60$1,664$7,210$86,520
Austin, TX$41.09$1,643$7,120$85,460
Bakersfield, CA$55.99$2,240$9,710$116,460
Baltimore, MD$42.41$1,696$7,350$88,210
Baton Rouge, LA$35.19$1,408$6,100$73,190
Boise, ID$38.49$1,540$6,670$80,060
Boston, MA$50.69$2,028$8,790$105,430
Buffalo, NY$40.95$1,638$7,100$85,170
Cape Coral, FL$37.48$1,499$6,500$77,960
Charlotte, NC$37.68$1,507$6,530$78,380
Chicago, IL$40.39$1,616$7,000$84,020
Cincinnati, OH$38.25$1,530$6,630$79,570
Cleveland, OH$38.39$1,536$6,650$79,850
Colorado Springs, CO$39.21$1,568$6,800$81,550
Columbus, GA$34.07$1,363$5,910$70,860
Columbus, OH$38.24$1,529$6,630$79,530
Corpus Christi, TX$36.50$1,460$6,330$75,930
Dallas, TX$41.63$1,665$7,220$86,580
Denver, CO$41.60$1,664$7,210$86,520
Des Moines, IA$33.67$1,347$5,840$70,030
Detroit, MI$38.85$1,554$6,730$80,810
El Paso, TX$35.83$1,433$6,210$74,530
Fayetteville, NC$37.75$1,510$6,540$78,520
Fort Wayne, IN$34.70$1,388$6,020$72,180
Fort Worth, TX$41.63$1,665$7,220$86,580
Fresno, CA$58.45$2,338$10,130$121,580
Greensboro, NC$38.03$1,521$6,590$79,100
Henderson, NV$46.28$1,851$8,020$96,260
Honolulu, HI$54.58$2,183$9,460$113,530
Houston, TX$42.11$1,684$7,300$87,590
Huntsville, AL$31.53$1,261$5,470$65,580
Indianapolis, IN$38.12$1,525$6,610$79,280
Jacksonville, FL$37.19$1,488$6,450$77,350
Jersey City, NJ$49.68$1,987$8,610$103,340
Kansas City, MO$36.28$1,451$6,290$75,470
Laredo, TX$36.19$1,448$6,270$75,280
Las Vegas, NV$46.28$1,851$8,020$96,260
Lexington, KY$36.82$1,473$6,380$76,580
Lincoln, NE$35.00$1,400$6,070$72,810
Little Rock, AR$33.98$1,359$5,890$70,680
Long Beach, CA$59.39$2,376$10,290$123,530
Los Angeles, CA$59.39$2,376$10,290$123,530
Louisville, KY$38.51$1,540$6,680$80,100
Lubbock, TX$36.82$1,473$6,380$76,580
Madison, WI$40.86$1,634$7,080$84,990
Memphis, TN$35.27$1,411$6,110$73,370
Mesa, AZ$41.41$1,657$7,180$86,140
Miami, FL$38.76$1,550$6,720$80,620
Milwaukee, WI$38.87$1,555$6,740$80,850
Minneapolis, MN$43.68$1,747$7,570$90,850
Modesto, CA$65.63$2,625$11,380$136,500
Nashville, TN$36.60$1,464$6,340$76,120
New Orleans, LA$37.63$1,505$6,520$78,270
New York, NY$49.68$1,987$8,610$103,340
Newark, NJ$49.68$1,987$8,610$103,340
Norfolk, VA$37.64$1,506$6,530$78,300
North Las Vegas, NV$46.28$1,851$8,020$96,260
Oakland, CA$78.06$3,123$13,530$162,370
Oklahoma City, OK$36.65$1,466$6,350$76,230
Omaha, NE$35.65$1,426$6,180$74,160
Orlando, FL$37.49$1,499$6,500$77,970
Philadelphia, PA$41.62$1,665$7,210$86,560
Phoenix, AZ$41.41$1,657$7,180$86,140
Pittsburgh, PA$36.12$1,445$6,260$75,130
Port St. Lucie, FL$36.59$1,464$6,340$76,110
Portland, OR$52.88$2,115$9,170$109,990
Raleigh, NC$37.27$1,491$6,460$77,530
Reno, NV$44.20$1,768$7,660$91,940
Richmond, VA$39.17$1,567$6,790$81,470
Riverside, CA$57.55$2,302$9,980$119,710
Rochester, NY$39.74$1,590$6,890$82,660
Sacramento, CA$68.81$2,753$11,930$143,130
Saint Paul, MN$43.68$1,747$7,570$90,850
Salt Lake City, UT$37.61$1,504$6,520$78,220
San Antonio, TX$39.35$1,574$6,820$81,840
San Bernardino, CA$57.55$2,302$9,980$119,710
San Diego, CA$55.83$2,233$9,680$116,120
San Francisco, CA$78.06$3,123$13,530$162,370
San Jose, CA$75.82$3,033$13,140$157,700
Scottsdale, AZ$41.41$1,657$7,180$86,140
Seattle, WA$50.00$2,000$8,670$104,010
Spokane, WA$46.48$1,859$8,060$96,670
St. Louis, MO$35.62$1,425$6,170$74,080
St. Petersburg, FL$37.87$1,515$6,560$78,760
Stockton, CA$61.77$2,471$10,710$128,480
Tacoma, WA$50.00$2,000$8,670$104,010
Tampa, FL$37.87$1,515$6,560$78,760
Toledo, OH$36.26$1,450$6,290$75,420
Tucson, AZ$39.61$1,584$6,870$82,380
Tulsa, OK$37.76$1,511$6,550$78,550
Virginia Beach, VA$37.64$1,506$6,530$78,300
Washington, DC$43.97$1,759$7,620$91,460
Wichita, KS$32.60$1,304$5,650$67,800
Winston-Salem, NC$38.01$1,521$6,590$79,070
Worcester, MA$46.69$1,868$8,090$97,120



What are the Highest-Paying Workplaces for Pediatric Nurses?


Pediatric nurses are one of the highest-paid nursing specialties. One factor that influences your earning potential as a pediatric nurse is where you work. The highest-paid pediatric nurses work in pediatric oncology, pediatric intensive care, and pediatric travel nursing.



What are the Highest-Paying States for Pediatric Nurses?


The highest-paying states for pediatric nurses are Connecticut, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Washington, Alaska, Massachusetts, Oregon, Hawaii, and California. In these states, the pediatric nurse salary ranges from $92,890 to $131,410.

RankHighest Paying States
StateAverage Annual Salary
1California$131,410
2Hawaii$111,580
3Oregon$105,060
4Massachusetts$102,640
5Alaska$101,810
6Washington$100,200
7New York$98,680
8New Jersey$95,270
9Nevada$94,910
10Connecticut$92,890



What are the Highest-Paying Cities for Pediatric Nurses?


The cities that pay pediatric nurses the highest salaries are all located in California and include Oakland, San Francisco, San Jose, Sacramento, Modesto, Stockton, Anaheim, Long Beach, Los Angeles, and Fresno. Pediatric nurses in these cities earn between $121,580 and $162,370 per year.

RankHighest Paying Cities
CityAverage Annual Salary
1Oakland, CA$162,370
2San Francisco, CA$162,370
3San Jose, CA$157,700
4Sacramento, CA$143,130
5Modesto, CA$136,500
6Stockton, CA$128,480
7Anaheim, CA$123,530
8Long Beach, CA$123,530
9Los Angeles, CA$123,530
10Fresno, CA$121,580



What is the Future Outlook for Pediatric Nurse Salary?


Pediatric nurses remain in high demand. A growing population, easier access to healthcare services, and increased awareness of the importance of early intervention to promote good health are a few reasons the demand is good. When there is a high demand for services, the salary outlook is also positive, which bodes well for anyone considering becoming a pediatric nurse.



Bonus! 4 Ways Pediatric Nurses Can Maximize Their Salary


One of the awesome things about being a pediatric nurse is that you can choose several career pathways. There are opportunities at every turn. Even the highest-paid pediatric nurses can maximize their earning potential. The following are four ways you can boost your salary.

WAY #1: Work Evening or Night Shifts

Most hospitals and after-hours clinics offer shift differential pay for nurses who work the "less favorable" schedules, such as evenings or nights. Some nurses work these shifts and discover they prefer them, while other pediatric nurses may only want to work these shifts in the short term. Either way, you can boost your earning potential by working evenings or nights.

WAY #2: Get Certified

Nursing certification is a way of validating your knowledge and skills. Becoming a certified pediatric nurse demonstrates your expertise beyond basic registered nurse licensure. Earning your certification is an excellent way to leverage your skills and abilities to negotiate higher earnings.

WAY #3: Choose a Pediatric Subspecialty

Something I love about nursing is that there are endless opportunities to learn and grow. For example, you can not only become certified as a pediatric nurse, but you can also choose a pediatric subspecialty. A few examples of subspecialties in pediatric nursing include pediatric endocrinology, pediatric acute care, pediatric oncology, and pediatric forensic nursing.

WAY #4: Consider Becoming an Adjunct/Part-time Nursing Instructor

Even if you want to continue bedside nursing, you can boost your income by working as an adjunct nursing instructor. Adjunct instructors are part-time, which means you do not have full-time benefits. However, being part-time means you can negotiate a higher wage in lieu of full benefits.



My Final Thoughts


If you have been considering your options as far as a nursing career and want to work in pediatrics, it is natural to have lots of questions. One of the most common questions of nurses considering pediatrics is, “How much does a pediatric nurse make?” In this article, I answered that question by sharing the pediatric nurse salary in 2024 for each state. You also learned how the average pediatric nurse salary compares to other healthcare and nursing jobs and discovered what cities pay the highest wages. With a demand for qualified pediatric nurses, this is an excellent time to begin your pediatric nursing career!



Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Our Expert


1. On Average, How Much Do Pediatric Nurses Make Per Hour?

On average, pediatric nurses make $42.17 per hour.

Salary Per Hour
$42.17


2. On Average, How Much Do Pediatric Nurses Make Per Week?

The average weekly salary for pediatric nurses is $1,687.

Salary Per Week
$1,687


3. On Average, How Much Do Pediatric Nurses Make Per Month?

Pediatric nurses earn an average of $7,310 per month.

Salary Per Month
$7,310


4. On Average, How Much Do Pediatric Nurses Make Per Year?

The average annual salary of pediatric nurses is $87,720.

Salary Per Year
$87,720


5. What States In The Northeast Pay The Highest Salaries For Pediatric Nurses?

Pediatric nurses in New York and Massachusetts earn more than those in any other northeast state. In these states, their salaries are $98,680 and $102,640, respectively.

StateAnnual Salary
Massachusetts$102,640
New York$98,680


6. What States In The Midwest Pay The Highest Salaries For Pediatric Nurses?

Minnesota pediatric nurses earn $87,570 per year, and Illinois pediatric nurses earn $81,030. These are the highest-paying states for pediatric nurses in the Midwest.

StateAnnual Salary
Minnesota$87,570
Illinois$81,030


7. What States In The Southeast Pay The Highest Salaries For Pediatric Nurses?

In the southeast, pediatric nurses earn the highest salaries in Virginia and Georgia, where salaries are $80,670 and $83,950.

StateAnnual Salary
Georgia$83,950
Virginia$80,670


8. What States In The Southwest Pay The Highest Salaries For Pediatric Nurses?

The southwest states that offer the highest pediatric nurse salaries are New Mexico and Arizona. Pediatric nurses in these states earn $84,340 and $85,480.

StateAnnual Salary
Arizona$85,480
New Mexico$84,340


9. What States In The Western Region Pay The Highest Salaries For Pediatric Nurses?

In the western region of the U.S., California and Hawaii pay the highest pediatric nurse salaries. Pediatric nurses in Hawaii earn $111,580, and California pediatric nurses earn $131,410, on average.

StateAnnual Salary
California$131,410
Hawaii$111,580


Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA
Darby Faubion is a nurse and allied health instructor with over 20 years of clinical experience. Her work history includes clinical experience in pediatrics, mental health, addiction and behavioral disorders, geriatrics, wound management, and communicable disease. Darby has worked in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health and hospice agencies. Darby also has experience as a nursing and allied health educator at both community college and university levels. Her love for nursing and nursing education led to her becoming a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach.