Registered Nurse Salary in Maryland
The median registered nurse salary in Maryland is $92,591 per year, which is 14.0% above the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Maryland (2026)
Maryland ranks #9 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. This places Maryland in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for registered nurses seeking high pay. At $92,591 per year, registered nurses in Maryland earn $11,371 more than the national median of $81,220.
It's worth noting that Maryland's cost of living is 110% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $92,591 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $84,174.
The salary spread in Maryland is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $65,436, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $137,712 — a $72,276 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Maryland for this role is Silver Spring, where the median reaches $102,337.
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 Maryland by Experience
In Maryland, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $66,120, while experienced professionals earn up to $131,100 per year. The cost of living index in Maryland is 110% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Maryland
| Percentile | MD Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $65,436 |
| 25th Percentile | $76,152 |
| Median (50th) | $92,591 |
| 75th Percentile | $115,254 |
| 90th Percentile | $137,712 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Maryland
The largest employment areas for registered nurses in Maryland include Baltimore, Columbia, Silver Spring, and Germantown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Maryland
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Maryland has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Maryland
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Maryland'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 $38,509 over your career trajectory.
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