Which state pays nurses the highest salary in 2026?

California pays registered nurses the highest nominal mean annual wage at $137,690, based on the May 2024 BLS OEWS release, the most recent federal data available in April 2026. Hawaii and Oregon follow at $119,710 and $113,440 respectively.

What is the highest-paying state for nurses after cost of living?

Nevada leads the cost-of-living-adjusted ranking at an effective $100,686, because its nominal $102,700 wage combines with a below-average 102.0 cost-of-living index. Oregon and California round out the top three adjusted states.

How much do nurses make on average in the United States?

The national mean annual wage for registered nurses is $94,480 and the median is $86,070 (BLS OEWS, May 2024). About 3.3 million RNs work in the US, with roughly one in seven earning above $132,680 (the 90th percentile).

Why does California pay nurses more than other states?

California has the highest RN pay because of its mandatory nurse-to-patient ratio law (AB 394), strong California Nurses Association representation, a high cost of living, and sustained demand in major metros. These four factors compound to push wages well above the national mean.

Is it worth moving to a higher-paying state as a nurse?

Usually yes, but only after adjusting for cost of living, state income tax, and housing. Moving from Texas ($87,170, COL 92.6) to California ($137,690, COL 142.2) looks like a 58% raise but is about a 3% gain in real dollars before tax.

The States Where Nurses Keep the Most Money (COL-Adjusted)

Highest-paying states for nurses in 2026, ranked both nominally and after cost of living. Latest BLS OEWS data, a full 50-state table, and honest guidance