Registered Nurse Salary in Arkansas
The median registered nurse salary in Arkansas is $66,600 per year, which is 18% below the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. Registered Nurse salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $66,600 per year, registered nurses in Arkansas earn $14,620 less than the national median of $81,220.
A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $66,600 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $79,286 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $47,068, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $99,056 — a $51,988 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $69,849.
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 Arkansas by Experience
In Arkansas, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $47,560, while experienced professionals earn up to $94,300 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Arkansas
| Percentile | AR Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $47,068 |
| 25th Percentile | $54,776 |
| Median (50th) | $66,600 |
| 75th Percentile | $82,902 |
| 90th Percentile | $99,056 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Arkansas
The largest employment areas for registered nurses in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Arkansas
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Arkansas
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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