Average Salary for BSN Nurses
Average Salary for BSN Nurses
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) equips registered nurses (RNs) with the training necessary to provide comprehensive care in various clinical settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and educational institutions. BSN nurses cater to patients at all stages of life, from newborns to the elderly, across numerous departments, including emergency rooms, ICUs, surgical units, and outpatient facilities.
BSN Earnings Overview
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nurses with a BSN typically earn an annual income of around $82,750. However, this figure can vary depending on factors such as geographic location, years of experience, and the specific nursing specialty. The nursing workforce in the U.S. is projected to increase from 3.1 million in 2021 to 3.3 million by 2031.
RNs have the opportunity to work across a variety of sectors within healthcare. The top five highest-paying nursing specializations in 2025 include:
- Dermatology Nurse Practitioner: $103,614
- Cardiac Cath Lab Nurse: $96,361
- Labor and Delivery Nurse: $90,523
- Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) Nurse: $95,080
- Operating Room (OR) Nurse: $93,458
Explore local job opportunities and get more details on nursing careers to find your next role.
BSN Salaries by Region
RN salaries vary from state to state, influenced by factors such as demand, cost of living, and local healthcare needs. When considering salaries, it is important to account for the cost of living, which can have a significant impact on take-home pay. In 2025, the top five states offering the highest nursing wages include:
- California: $124,000
- Hawaii: $106,530
- Oregon: $98,630
- Alaska: $97,230
- Massachusetts: $96,630
Additionally, several cities offer higher-than-average salaries for nurses. As with states, it is essential to consider local living expenses in relation to salary. Notably, California cities dominate the list of the highest-paying areas for RNs, adjusted for the cost of living.
Top 5 Highest-Paying Cities for RNs (Adjusted for Cost of Living)
- San Jose-Sunnyvale, CA: $138,475
- Vallejo-Fairfield, CA: $135,018
- Hanford-Corcoran, CA: $129,854
- San Francisco-Oakland, CA: $129,165
- Santa Rosa, CA: $128,816
The demand for nurses continues to grow, and by keeping up with regional salary variations, nurses can make informed decisions about where to practice.
For more job opportunities and insights into nursing careers, visit GoodWork.
