Registered Nurse Salary in New Jersey
The median registered nurse salary in New Jersey is $97,464 per year, which is 20.0% above the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in New Jersey (2026)
New Jersey ranks #6 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. This places New Jersey in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for registered nurses seeking high pay. At $97,464 per year, registered nurses in New Jersey earn $16,244 more than the national median of $81,220.
It's worth noting that New Jersey's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $97,464 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $84,751.
The salary spread in New Jersey is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $68,880, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $144,960 — a $76,080 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in New Jersey for this role is Jersey City, where the median reaches $108,023.
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 New Jersey by Experience
In New Jersey, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $69,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $138,000 per year. The cost of living index in New Jersey is 115% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in New Jersey
| Percentile | NJ Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $68,880 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,160 |
| Median (50th) | $97,464 |
| 75th Percentile | $121,320 |
| 90th Percentile | $144,960 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in New Jersey
The largest employment areas for registered nurses in New Jersey include Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, and Elizabeth. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Registered Nurse in New Jersey
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. New Jersey has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in New Jersey
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). New Jersey'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 $40,536 over your career trajectory.
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