Registered Nurse Salary in Wisconsin
The median registered nurse salary in Wisconsin is $76,347 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Wisconsin (2026)
Wisconsin ranks #26 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. Registered Nurse salaries in Wisconsin are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $76,347 per year, registered nurses in Wisconsin earn $4,873 less than the national median of $81,220.
A key advantage of working in Wisconsin is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $76,347 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $82,986 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Wisconsin is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $53,956, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $113,552 — a $59,596 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Wisconsin for this role is Madison, where the median reaches $82,844.
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 Wisconsin by Experience
In Wisconsin, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $54,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $108,100 per year. The cost of living index in Wisconsin is 92% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Wisconsin
| Percentile | WI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $53,956 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,792 |
| Median (50th) | $76,347 |
| 75th Percentile | $95,034 |
| 90th Percentile | $113,552 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Wisconsin
The largest employment areas for registered nurses in Wisconsin include Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, and Kenosha. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Wisconsin
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Wisconsin has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Wisconsin
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Wisconsin'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 $31,753 over your career trajectory.
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