Registered Nurse Salary in Delaware
The median registered nurse salary in Delaware is $83,657 per year, which is 3.0% above the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Delaware (2026)
Delaware ranks #15 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. Delaware falls in the middle of the pack for registered nurse pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $83,657 per year, registered nurses in Delaware earn $2,437 more than the national median of $81,220.
Delaware's cost of living is near the national average at 101%, meaning registered nurse salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Delaware is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $59,122, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $124,424 — a $65,302 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Delaware for this role is Wilmington, where the median reaches $86,905.
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 Delaware by Experience
In Delaware, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $59,740, while experienced professionals earn up to $118,450 per year. The cost of living index in Delaware is 101% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Delaware
| Percentile | DE Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $59,122 |
| 25th Percentile | $68,804 |
| Median (50th) | $83,657 |
| 75th Percentile | $104,133 |
| 90th Percentile | $124,424 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Delaware
The largest employment areas for registered nurses in Delaware include Wilmington, Dover, Newark, and Middletown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Delaware
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Delaware has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Delaware
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Delaware'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 $34,793 over your career trajectory.
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