Why don't nurses get paid more?

By comparison, an LPN, requiring only a two-year associate's degree and no specialized training, has an average salary range of $46,000 to $53,000 per year. This is not to suggest that the work provided by LPNs is less important or difficult, but skilled nursing specialists will always earn a higher salary.

Industry demand is perhaps the most important factor driving nursing salaries. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows the demand for registered nurses through the year 2031 to increase by 6% creating approximately 200,000 jobs in the field per year. The need for those in more specialized nursing roles such as nurse practitioners and nurse anesthesiologists to grow by 40%.

As is the case in almost any industry, both specialized skills and industry demand dictate salary. There are nearly 100 areas of specialization within the profession of nursing, many require additional education or certification. For those willing to invest the additional time and money necessary to meet these additional requirements, nursing can be a profession that pays quite well.