Registered Nurse Salary in Hawaii
The median registered nurse salary in Hawaii is $144,572 per year, which is 78.0% above the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Hawaii (2026)
Hawaii ranks #1 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. This places Hawaii in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for registered nurses seeking high pay. At $144,572 per year, registered nurses in Hawaii earn $63,352 more than the national median of $81,220.
It's worth noting that Hawaii's cost of living is 170% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $144,572 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $85,042.
The salary spread in Hawaii is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $102,172, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $215,024 — a $112,852 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Hawaii for this role is Honolulu, where the median reaches $148,633.
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 Hawaii by Experience
In Hawaii, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $103,240, while experienced professionals earn up to $204,700 per year. The cost of living index in Hawaii is 170% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Hawaii
| Percentile | HI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $102,172 |
| 25th Percentile | $118,904 |
| Median (50th) | $144,572 |
| 75th Percentile | $179,958 |
| 90th Percentile | $215,024 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Hawaii
The largest employment areas for registered nurses in Hawaii include Honolulu, Pearl City, Hilo, and Kailua. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Hawaii
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Hawaii has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Hawaii
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Hawaii'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 $60,128 over your career trajectory.
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