Registered Nurse Salary in Buffalo, New York
The median registered nurse salary in Buffalo, NY is $78,783 per year, which is 3% below the national median and 23.6% below the New York state average.
Registered Nurse Pay in Buffalo: What to Expect (2026)
Buffalo offers a median registered nurse salary of $78,783, which is $24,366 below the New York state average of $103,149. Compared to the national median of $81,220, Buffalo pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Buffalo's cost of living is 92% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for registered nurses in Buffalo spans from $55,678 at the 10th percentile to $117,176 at the 90th percentile — a $61,498 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $56,260, while senior registered nurses with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $111,550. With a population of 278,349, Buffalo is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Registered Nurse Salary in Buffalo by Experience
In Buffalo, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $56,260, while experienced professionals earn up to $111,550 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Buffalo, NY
| Percentile | Buffalo |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $55,678 |
| 25th Percentile | $64,796 |
| Median (50th) | $78,783 |
| 75th Percentile | $98,067 |
| 90th Percentile | $117,176 |
Registered Nurse Salary in Other New York Cities
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Buffalo
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Buffalo and the surrounding New York area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Buffalo may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Registered Nurse Jobs in Buffalo
Browse open registered nurse positions in Buffalo, NY: