Biotech, top universities, finance — knowledge economy capital. Here's how Registered Nurse (RN)s in Boston get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Boston metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $87,300 | $66,300 | $113,500 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $108,500 | $82,400 | $141,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $124,800 | $94,800 | $162,200 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $149,700 | $113,700 | $194,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $169,700 | $128,900 | $220,500 |
Highest-paying metros for Registered Nurse (RN)s — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Boston metro economy.
The average Registered Nurse (RN) salary in the Boston metro is $124,800 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $94,800 to $162,200 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $205,900 or more.
Yes — Boston pays +8% relative to the Massachusetts state median for Registered Nurse (RN)s. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Boston vs. national: +32%. That puts Boston among the stronger US markets for Registered Nurse (RN)s — though cost of living in Boston is also typically elevated.
In Boston, the median Registered Nurse (RN) salary of $124,800 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Registered Nurse (RN)s in Boston start around $87,300, while seniors (10+ years) reach $149,700 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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