How Registered Nurse (RN)s in Arkansas get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Arkansas compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $53,100 | $40,300 | $69,000 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $66,000 | $50,100 | $85,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $75,900 | $57,600 | $98,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $91,000 | $69,100 | $118,300 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $103,200 | $78,300 | $134,000 |
Top occupations by median pay in Arkansas — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Arkansas
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Registered Nurse (RN) salary in Arkansas is $75,900 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $57,600 and the 75th at $98,600.
Pay-wise, Arkansas sits -20% below the national Registered Nurse (RN) median ($94,800). Wages run below the national median, but cost of living is often correspondingly lower; net purchasing power may be similar to higher-paying states.
Senior Registered Nurse (RN)s (10–14 years of experience) in Arkansas earn around $91,000 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $103,200 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Arkansas ranks 48th for Registered Nurse (RN) pay. The highest-paying state pays around $153,600 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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