Registered Nurse Salary in Louisiana
The median registered nurse salary in Louisiana is $73,910 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Louisiana (2026)
Louisiana ranks #32 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. Registered Nurse salaries in Louisiana are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $73,910 per year, registered nurses in Louisiana earn $7,310 less than the national median of $81,220.
A key advantage of working in Louisiana is its below-average cost of living (91% of the national index). This means the $73,910 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $81,220 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Louisiana is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $52,234, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $109,928 — a $57,694 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Louisiana for this role is New Orleans, where the median reaches $79,596.
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 Louisiana by Experience
In Louisiana, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $52,780, while experienced professionals earn up to $104,650 per year. The cost of living index in Louisiana is 91% of the national average.
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| Percentile | LA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $52,234 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,788 |
| Median (50th) | $73,910 |
| 75th Percentile | $92,001 |
| 90th Percentile | $109,928 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Louisiana
The largest employment areas for registered nurses in Louisiana include New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and Lafayette. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Louisiana
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Louisiana has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Louisiana
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Louisiana's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Registered Nurses who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $30,740 over your career trajectory.
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