Registered Nurse Salary in Norfolk, Virginia
The median registered nurse salary in Norfolk, VA is $79,596 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 7.5% below the Virginia state average.
Registered Nurse Pay in Norfolk: What to Expect (2026)
Norfolk offers a median registered nurse salary of $79,596, which is $6,497 below the Virginia state average of $86,093. Compared to the national median of $81,220, Norfolk pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Norfolk's cost of living is 96% 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 Norfolk spans from $56,252 at the 10th percentile to $118,384 at the 90th percentile — a $62,132 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $56,840, while senior registered nurses with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $112,700. With a population of 238,005, Norfolk is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Registered Nurse Salary in Norfolk by Experience
In Norfolk, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $56,840, while experienced professionals earn up to $112,700 per year. The local cost of living index is 96% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Norfolk, VA
| Percentile | Norfolk |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $56,252 |
| 25th Percentile | $65,464 |
| Median (50th) | $79,596 |
| 75th Percentile | $99,078 |
| 90th Percentile | $118,384 |
Registered Nurse Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Norfolk
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Norfolk and the surrounding Virginia 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 Norfolk may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Registered Nurse Jobs in Norfolk
Browse open registered nurse positions in Norfolk, VA: