California is the highest-paying state for registered nurses, according to 2024 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, published April 2. In 10 states, RNs earn more than $100,000 on average.
Here are the five top-paying states for RNs in 2025. Find the full list of pay by state here.
1. California: $148,330
2. Hawaii: $123,720
3. Oregon: $120,470
4. Washington: $115,740
5. Massachusetts: $112,610
