Registered Nurse Salary in Indiana
The median registered nurse salary in Indiana is $73,098 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Indiana (2026)
Indiana ranks #35 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. Registered Nurse salaries in Indiana are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $73,098 per year, registered nurses in Indiana earn $8,122 less than the national median of $81,220.
A key advantage of working in Indiana is its below-average cost of living (90% of the national index). This means the $73,098 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $81,220 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Indiana is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $51,660, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $108,720 — a $57,060 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Indiana for this role is Carmel, where the median reaches $85,281.
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 Indiana by Experience
In Indiana, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $52,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $103,500 per year. The cost of living index in Indiana is 90% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Indiana
| Percentile | IN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $51,660 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,120 |
| Median (50th) | $73,098 |
| 75th Percentile | $90,990 |
| 90th Percentile | $108,720 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Indiana
The largest employment areas for registered nurses in Indiana include Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Evansville, and South Bend. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Indiana
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Indiana has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Indiana
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Indiana'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 $30,402 over your career trajectory.
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