How Registered Nurse (RN)s in New York get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical New York compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $79,600 | $60,500 | $103,500 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $99,000 | $75,200 | $128,600 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $113,800 | $86,500 | $147,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $136,500 | $103,800 | $177,400 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $154,700 | $117,600 | $201,100 |
Pay varies sharply within New York. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs New York |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York City | $128,900 | $98,000 | $167,600 | +13% |
Top occupations by median pay in New York — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in New York
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Registered Nurse (RN) salary in New York is $113,800 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $86,500 and the 75th at $147,900.
Pay-wise, New York sits +20% above the national Registered Nurse (RN) median ($94,800). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Registered Nurse (RN)s (10–14 years of experience) in New York earn around $136,500 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $154,700 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), New York ranks 10th 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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