Registered Nurse Salary in Alabama
The median registered nurse salary in Alabama is $70,661 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Alabama (2026)
Alabama ranks #44 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. Registered Nurse salaries in Alabama are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $70,661 per year, registered nurses in Alabama earn $10,559 less than the national median of $81,220.
A key advantage of working in Alabama is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $70,661 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $81,220 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Alabama is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $49,938, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $105,096 — a $55,158 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Alabama for this role is Huntsville, where the median reaches $74,722.
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for registered nurses across the country.
Registered Nurse Salary in Alabama by Experience
In Alabama, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $50,460, while experienced professionals earn up to $100,050 per year. The cost of living index in Alabama is 87% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Alabama
| Percentile | AL Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $49,938 |
| 25th Percentile | $58,116 |
| Median (50th) | $70,661 |
| 75th Percentile | $87,957 |
| 90th Percentile | $105,096 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Alabama
The largest employment areas for registered nurses in Alabama include Birmingham, Huntsville, Montgomery, and Mobile. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Alabama
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Alabama has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Alabama
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Alabama's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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