Registered Nurse Salary in Rhode Island
The median registered nurse salary in Rhode Island is $87,718 per year, which is 8.0% above the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Rhode Island (2026)
Rhode Island ranks #12 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. Rhode Island falls in the middle of the pack for registered nurse pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $87,718 per year, registered nurses in Rhode Island earn $6,498 more than the national median of $81,220.
Rhode Island's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning registered nurse salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Rhode Island is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $61,992, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $130,464 — a $68,472 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Rhode Island for this role is Providence, where the median reaches $90,154.
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 Rhode Island by Experience
In Rhode Island, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $62,640, while experienced professionals earn up to $124,200 per year. The cost of living index in Rhode Island is 105% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Rhode Island
| Percentile | RI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $61,992 |
| 25th Percentile | $72,144 |
| Median (50th) | $87,718 |
| 75th Percentile | $109,188 |
| 90th Percentile | $130,464 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Rhode Island
The largest employment areas for registered nurses in Rhode Island include Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Rhode Island
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Rhode Island has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Rhode Island
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Rhode Island's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Registered Nurses who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $36,482 over your career trajectory.
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