Ready to unlock the door to endless nursing possibilities? Whether you’re craving stability, adventure, or ultimate flexibility, your RN career can take you anywhere—literally. But where should you go next?
Becoming a Registered Nurse unlocks a world of exciting career opportunities, offering a path as diverse and flexible as you want it to be. Whether you’re drawn to the stability of a permanent position, the thrill of traveling the country as a travel nurse on short-term contracts, or the freedom of picking up per diem shifts, the possibilities are limitless. But here’s the secret to making the right choice: understanding what each state has to offer. From job availability and salary potential to cost of living and workplace satisfaction, these factors can vary greatly from one state to another. So how do you decide which state is the perfect fit for your nursing career—and your lifestyle? It all comes down to your personal goals, values, and what you’re seeking in a place to both work and call home. A comprehensive state nursing guide can be your roadmap, helping you navigate your options and make an informed decision about where to take your nursing career next!
Nursing Job Demand By State
Are you concerned about job security and finding a stable career? If having peace of mind about job availability is important to you, then moving to a state with a high demand for nurses could be a smart choice. According to The National Center for Health Workforce Analysis, the nursing profession is expected to face a significant shortage in the coming years. By 2025, the U.S. will be short approximately 78,610 full-time equivalent (FTE) Registered Nurses (RNs), and by 2030, that shortage will decrease slightly to 63,720 FTE RNs. While projections suggest that the overall RN supply may exceed demand by 2035, there will still be persistent shortages in certain states. Ten states are expected to continue facing nurse shortages well into the future, making them ideal locations for job security and career growth. If you’re seeking stability, these high-demand areas could provide you with plenty of opportunities and peace of mind for years to come.
- Washington
- Georgia
- California
- Oregon
- Michigan
- Idaho
- Louisiana
- North Carolina
- New Jersey
- South Carolina
As you plan your next contract, consider targeting states with the greatest projected demand for nurses in the years ahead. These locations will likely offer more job opportunities, and less competition compared to states with lower demand. By choosing high-need areas, you’ll increase your chances of securing the position you want while enjoying greater stability.
Highest Hourly Salary for Nurses by State
Make that money, honey! If you are chasing dollar bills then these states are where you want to work as a registered nurse! Keep in mind some of the highest-paying states also have a high cost of living. Listed below are the highest-paying states for nurses per Becker’s Healthcare:
- California
- Mean hourly: $64.42
- Hawaii
- Mean hourly: $62.12
- Oregon
- Mean hourly: $53.34
- Washington
- Mean hourly: $51.79
- Alaska
- Mean hourly: $51.16
On the flip side, there are several states where Registered Nurses earn significantly less than the national average. The lowest-paying states for nurses currently include Alabama, South Dakota, Mississippi, and Iowa. In these states, the mean hourly wage for RNs ranges from $31.68 to $34.41. While these states may offer a lower salary compared to their counterparts, it’s important to also consider the cost of living, which can be significantly lower in these regions. For nurses seeking a more affordable lifestyle, these states might offer a better balance, but the trade-off is a smaller paycheck. As always, it’s important to weigh both salary and living expenses when evaluating potential job opportunities.
Best Cost Per Living States for Registered Nurses
This next list by Forbes, showcases the five cheapest states to live in for 2024. Forbes found this number by calculating the Cost of Living Index of each state. The base number for comparing locations is 100. If a city is 20% more expensive, their cost per living score would be 120. If a state is 10% less expensive than the average it would have a Cost of Living Index of 90.
Top 5 states with the lowest cost of living:
- West Virginia (cost of living index: 84.3)
- Oklahoma (cost of living index: 85.3)
- Kansas (cost of living index: 85.3)
- Alabama (cost of living index: 87.6)
- Mississippi (cost of living index: 87.7)
Top 5 most expensive states to live in, in 2024 and their cost of living index:
- Hawaii (cost of living index: 160)
- California (cost of living index: 170)
- Alaska (cost of living index: 135)
- Massachusetts (cost of living index: 140)
- Oregon (cost of living index: 140)
While California, Hawaii, Oregon, Massachusetts, and Washington offer some of the highest-paying nursing jobs in the U.S., they also rank among the most expensive places to live. It’s essential to factor in the cost of living when comparing job offers across the country, as these states can put a financial strain on nurses despite offering attractive pay rates. However, there’s more to these states than just high costs—each one offers unique opportunities that make them desirable destinations for travel nurses.
Hawaii: Known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Hawaii is the ultimate tropical paradise. Not only will you enjoy a rewarding nursing career, but you’ll also get to experience life in one of the world’s most sought-after vacation spots. Whether you’re exploring volcanoes, immersing yourself in Polynesian culture, or relaxing on pristine beaches, Hawaii offers a work-life balance that few places can match.
California: California is a dream destination for many nurses, thanks to its diverse landscapes, world-renowned healthcare facilities, and vibrant cultural scene. From bustling cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco to scenic coastal towns, California provides endless job opportunities. The state’s year-round pleasant climate, iconic beaches, and thriving arts and food scenes make it an exciting place to live and work. Nurses in California can experience professional growth in some of the best medical centers while enjoying a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle outside of work.
Alaska: For nurses seeking adventure and an escape from the fast-paced city life, Alaska offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity. With its expansive wilderness, towering mountains, and rugged beauty, Alaska is perfect for nature lovers. Here, you’ll find abundant wildlife, towering glaciers, and stunning natural landscapes to explore during your free time. Whether you’re hiking, fishing, or taking in the northern lights, Alaska offers an incredible experience that can’t be found anywhere else. Plus, the state’s unique healthcare environment provides travel nurses with the chance to make a real impact in remote communities.
Massachusetts: Massachusetts blends rich history with cutting-edge healthcare, offering travel nurses the chance to work in prestigious hospitals while exploring historic landmarks. Boston, a hub of medical innovation, provides travel nurses with world-class professional opportunities in renowned hospitals like Massachusetts General and Brigham and Women’s. Beyond healthcare, Massachusetts offers a unique cultural experience—tour the Freedom Trail, visit Plymouth Rock, or explore the charming towns that dot the state. With its high quality of life, diverse activities, and excellent healthcare systems, Massachusetts is a top choice for many travel nurses.
Washington: Washington State, particularly the Seattle area, is another prime destination for nurses looking for high-paying positions. Known for its booming tech industry and rapidly growing healthcare sector, Washington offers exciting professional opportunities. Seattle’s world-class medical institutions and research centers provide nurses with the chance to work on cutting-edge projects while benefiting from one of the best healthcare systems in the nation. Outside of work, Washington offers a diverse mix of outdoor adventures, from hiking and skiing in the Cascade Mountains to exploring the lush forests and beaches of the Olympic Peninsula. With its mix of city living and outdoor activities, Washington offers the best of both worlds.
Best States for Nurses Satisfaction and Happiness
While securing a high-paying nursing job is a goal for many, it’s equally important to consider job satisfaction and overall happiness in your career. As a nurse, you dedicate countless hours of hard work, compassion, and expertise to care for your patients, ensuring their well-being and comfort. But it’s just as essential to ask: Are you feeling fulfilled and happy in your own role? After all, you deserve not only a paycheck but a sense of purpose and joy in the work you do. Job satisfaction isn’t just about the salary—it’s about finding a balance between your professional and personal needs, working in a positive environment, and feeling appreciated for the impact you make. When you’re content in your job, your ability to care for others is heightened, and that’s a win-win for both you and your patients.
- Minnesota (Quality of life ranking #2, Hospital rating by nurses 86%)
- Wisconsin (Quality of life ranking #3, Hospital rating by nurses 88%)
- Oregon (Quality of life ranking #18, Hospital rating by nurses inconclusive)
- Alaska (Quality of life ranking #19, Hospital rating by nurses 78%)
- Colorado (Quality of life ranking #10, Hospital rating by nurses 85%)
To determine this rating, Nurse.org evaluated multiple key factors that contribute to a nurse’s overall experience and job satisfaction. These factors include the quality of life in each state, average nurse salaries, the demand for nurses in different regions, and hospital ratings based on patient care and working conditions. By taking all these elements into account, Nurse.org provides a comprehensive look at which states offer the best opportunities for nurses, both professionally and personally. This helps nurses make informed decisions about where they can thrive in their careers while enjoying a high quality of life.
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