Registered Nurse Salary in Washington
The median registered nurse salary in Washington is $96,652 per year, which is 19.0% above the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Washington (2026)
Washington ranks #7 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. This places Washington in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for registered nurses seeking high pay. At $96,652 per year, registered nurses in Washington earn $15,432 more than the national median of $81,220.
It's worth noting that Washington's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $96,652 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $84,045.
The salary spread in Washington is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $68,306, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $143,752 — a $75,446 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Washington for this role is Bellevue, where the median reaches $126,703.
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 Washington by Experience
In Washington, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $69,020, while experienced professionals earn up to $136,850 per year. The cost of living index in Washington is 115% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Washington
| Percentile | WA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $68,306 |
| 25th Percentile | $79,492 |
| Median (50th) | $96,652 |
| 75th Percentile | $120,309 |
| 90th Percentile | $143,752 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Washington
The largest employment areas for registered nurses in Washington include Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Bellevue. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Washington
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Washington has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Washington
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Washington'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 $40,198 over your career trajectory.
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