Registered Nurse Salary in New York
The median registered nurse salary in New York is $103,149 per year, which is 27.0% above the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in New York (2026)
New York ranks #5 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. This places New York in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for registered nurses seeking high pay. At $103,149 per year, registered nurses in New York earn $21,929 more than the national median of $81,220.
It's worth noting that New York's cost of living is 122% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $103,149 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $84,548.
The salary spread in New York is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $72,898, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $153,416 — a $80,518 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in New York for this role is New York City, where the median reaches $155,942.
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 York by Experience
In New York, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $73,660, while experienced professionals earn up to $146,050 per year. The cost of living index in New York is 122% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in New York
| Percentile | NY Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $72,898 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,836 |
| Median (50th) | $103,149 |
| 75th Percentile | $128,397 |
| 90th Percentile | $153,416 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in New York
The largest employment areas for registered nurses in New York include New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, and Yonkers. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Registered Nurse in New York
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. New York has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in New York
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). New York'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 $42,901 over your career trajectory.
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