Registered Nurse Salary in Louisville, Kentucky
The median registered nurse salary in Louisville, KY is $74,722 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 5.7% above the Kentucky state average.
Registered Nurse Pay in Louisville: What to Expect (2026)
Louisville offers a median registered nurse salary of $74,722, which is $4,061 above the Kentucky state average of $70,661. Compared to the national median of $81,220, Louisville pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Louisville's cost of living is 92% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for registered nurses in Louisville spans from $52,808 at the 10th percentile to $111,136 at the 90th percentile — a $58,328 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $53,360, while senior registered nurses with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $105,800. As a major metro area with a population of 633,045, Louisville typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Registered Nurse Salary in Louisville by Experience
In Louisville, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $53,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $105,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Louisville, KY
| Percentile | Louisville |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $52,808 |
| 25th Percentile | $61,456 |
| Median (50th) | $74,722 |
| 75th Percentile | $93,012 |
| 90th Percentile | $111,136 |
Registered Nurse Salary in Other Kentucky Cities
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Louisville
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Louisville and the surrounding Kentucky area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Louisville may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Registered Nurse Jobs in Louisville
Browse open registered nurse positions in Louisville, KY: