Registered Nurse Salary in Missouri
The median registered nurse salary in Missouri is $71,474 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Missouri (2026)
Missouri ranks #42 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. Registered Nurse salaries in Missouri are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $71,474 per year, registered nurses in Missouri earn $9,746 less than the national median of $81,220.
A key advantage of working in Missouri is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $71,474 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $81,220 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Missouri is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $50,512, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $106,304 — a $55,792 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Missouri for this role is Kansas City, where the median reaches $74,722.
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 Missouri by Experience
In Missouri, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $51,040, while experienced professionals earn up to $101,200 per year. The cost of living index in Missouri is 88% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Missouri
| Percentile | MO Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $50,512 |
| 25th Percentile | $58,784 |
| Median (50th) | $71,474 |
| 75th Percentile | $88,968 |
| 90th Percentile | $106,304 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Missouri
The largest employment areas for registered nurses in Missouri include Kansas City, Saint Louis, Springfield, and Columbia. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Missouri
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Missouri has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Missouri
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Missouri's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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