Registered Nurse Salary in Arizona
The median registered nurse salary in Arizona is $78,783 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Arizona (2026)
Arizona ranks #22 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. Arizona falls in the middle of the pack for registered nurse pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $78,783 per year, registered nurses in Arizona earn $2,437 less than the national median of $81,220.
Arizona's cost of living is near the national average at 97%, meaning registered nurse salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Arizona is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $55,678, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $117,176 — a $61,498 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arizona for this role is Scottsdale, where the median reaches $90,966.
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 Arizona by Experience
In Arizona, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $56,260, while experienced professionals earn up to $111,550 per year. The cost of living index in Arizona is 97% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Arizona
| Percentile | AZ Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $55,678 |
| 25th Percentile | $64,796 |
| Median (50th) | $78,783 |
| 75th Percentile | $98,067 |
| 90th Percentile | $117,176 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Arizona
The largest employment areas for registered nurses in Arizona include Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, and Scottsdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Arizona
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Arizona has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Arizona
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Arizona's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Registered Nurses who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $32,767 over your career trajectory.
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