Federal government, lobbying, defense, professional services. Here's how Registered Nurse (RN)s in Washington get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Washington metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $92,800 | $70,600 | $120,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $115,400 | $87,700 | $150,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $132,700 | $100,900 | $172,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $159,200 | $121,000 | $207,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $180,400 | $137,200 | $234,700 |
Highest-paying metros for Registered Nurse (RN)s — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Washington metro economy.
The average Registered Nurse (RN) salary in the Washington metro is $132,700 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $100,900 to $172,600 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $219,000 or more.
Yes — Washington pays +0% relative to the Washington DC 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.
Washington vs. national: +40%. That puts Washington among the stronger US markets for Registered Nurse (RN)s — though cost of living in Washington is also typically elevated.
In Washington, the median Registered Nurse (RN) salary of $132,700 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Registered Nurse (RN)s in Washington start around $92,800, while seniors (10+ years) reach $159,200 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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