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Job outlook for assistant nurse managers in the United States
Assistant nurse manager job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected assistant nurse manager job growth rate is 6% from 2018-2028.
About 195,400 new jobs for assistant nurse managers are projected over the next decade.
Assistant nurse manager salaries have increased 10% for assistant nurse managers in the last 5 years.
There are over 38,115 assistant nurse managers currently employed in the United States.
There are 545,521 active assistant nurse manager job openings in the US.
The average assistant nurse manager salary is $78,364.
Are assistant nurse manager jobs in demand?
Assistant nurse manager job and salary trends over time
Assistant nurse manager jobs over time
Assistant nurse manager job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 38,115 | 0.01% |
| 2020 | 35,577 | 0.01% |
| 2019 | 35,035 | 0.01% |
| 2018 | 33,410 | 0.01% |
| 2017 | 31,506 | 0.01% |
Average assistant nurse manager salary over time
Assistant nurse manager salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $78,364 | $37.68 | +2.8% |
| 2025 | $76,253 | $36.66 | +2.2% |
| 2024 | $74,619 | $35.87 | +2.5% |
| 2023 | $72,820 | $35.01 | +2.3% |
| 2022 | $71,207 | $34.23 | +1.4% |
Assistant nurse manager jobs by state
Most common states for assistant nurse managers
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 3,857 | 56% |
| 2 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 482 | 55% |
| 3 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 507 | 48% |
| 4 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 632 | 47% |
| 5 | Delaware | 961,939 | 455 | 47% |
| 6 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 352 | 47% |
| 7 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 613 | 46% |
| 8 | Vermont | 623,657 | 285 | 46% |
| 9 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 294 | 42% |
| 10 | Indiana | 6,666,818 | 2,612 | 39% |
| 11 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 1,205 | 38% |
| 12 | Florida | 20,984,400 | 7,554 | 36% |
| 13 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 750 | 36% |
| 14 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 682 | 36% |
| 15 | Alaska | 739,795 | 269 | 36% |
| 16 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 4,263 | 33% |
| 17 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 2,466 | 33% |
| 18 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,979 | 33% |
| 19 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 193 | 33% |
| 20 | West Virginia | 1,815,857 | 580 | 32% |
Most common cities for assistant nurse managers
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bangor | 7 | 22% | $56,229 |
| 2 | Iowa City | 10 | 13% | $66,567 |
| 3 | San Leandro | 11 | 12% | $119,028 |
| 4 | Santa Clara | 12 | 10% | $118,909 |
| 5 | Weston | 7 | 10% | $62,994 |
| 6 | Ocala | 6 | 10% | $62,216 |
| 7 | Walnut Creek | 6 | 9% | $118,848 |
| 8 | Warwick | 6 | 7% | $86,235 |
| 9 | Cleveland | 19 | 5% | $89,645 |
| 10 | Orlando | 13 | 5% | $62,225 |
| 11 | Antioch | 6 | 5% | $118,563 |
| 12 | Roseville | 6 | 5% | $117,551 |
| 13 | Oakland | 16 | 4% | $119,085 |
| 14 | Baltimore | 16 | 3% | $80,826 |
| 15 | Fort Lauderdale | 6 | 3% | $62,921 |
| 16 | San Francisco | 14 | 2% | $119,307 |
| 17 | Memphis | 9 | 1% | $63,385 |
| 18 | Atlanta | 5 | 1% | $69,382 |
| 19 | New York | 13 | 0% | $103,534 |
| 20 | Los Angeles | 7 | 0% | $109,982 |
Assistant Nurse Manager job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of assistant nurse manager experts
Meharry Medical College
The University of Tampa
Harding University
University of Maine
Stephen F Austin State University
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Missouri State University
New York University
Cedar Crest College
Missouri Baptist University
Lincoln University
Olugbemiga Ogunkua M.D., Ph.D.
ProfessorMeharry Medical College
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences
What will help Assistant Nurse Managers increase their earning potential?
Olugbemiga Ogunkua M.D., Ph.D.: 1. Learn as much as you can as if you are still a student. Respect your seniors and colleagues. Show humility so that you can learn from all around you. Those not having long list of degrees can teach you a lot. Nurses, technicians working aids and ancillary staffs have seen a lot in the practice and you can tap into their experience and be a better you professionally.
What Assistant Nurse Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. MaryAnn D'Alesandro DNP, MSN, RN, CNOR, NI-BC, CNE: The most important advice is to keep in mind is that the first 1 to 2 years is still the learning phase of being an RN. Be kind and patient with yourself and be comfortable with asking questions and for help when you need it. Emulate the nurses that you admire and respect. Be a sponge when you can learn new skills and new concepts from your more experienced teammates. Be humble and be gracious. Enjoy it. Embrace the experiences and learn from them.
Marcus Binns MSN-NE, RN
Assistant ProfessorHarding University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What Assistant Nurse Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Marcus Binns MSN-NE, RN: I would recommend they try to find their passion in nursing and get into it as quickly as they are able. You may not be able to start off on a specialty unit, but work on the steps needed to get there within a few years after starting off. If you try to practice nursing without passion, you can quickly experience feelings of burnout. If you work on a unit or with a population that you care deeply about, some days will *still* be hard but you will be encouraged to show up the next day and continue working with people you care about.
What Assistant Nurse Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jordan Porter DNP, APRN, FNP-BC: In nursing, maximizing your salary isn't just about climbing the traditional ladder. It’s crucial to broaden your perspective and think innovatively. Advanced certifications and education are key—they don’t just boost your expertise, they open doors to higher-paying opportunities that many might not consider, like roles in healthcare technology or business. Mastering negotiation is also essential. It’s about articulating your unique value compellingly, telling your story in a way that not only highlights your skills but also demonstrates how you can meet the needs of an organization in a mutually beneficial way. But let's not overlook the non-traditional paths. For instance, travel nursing can offer not just adventure but also lucrative contracts, especially in high-demand areas. And stepping into entrepreneurial roles within healthcare can tap into new revenue streams that go beyond hourly wages. Yet, while exploring these avenues, it’s important to remember the bigger picture. A healthy work environment where you feel genuinely supported and valued is priceless. It’s about finding a balance where you are not just well-compensated but where you also belong. Leaders who invest in your growth, a culture that respects your work-life balance, and a role that allows you to maintain your professional integrity—all these factors contribute to long-term satisfaction and well-being. After all, the ultimate goal isn’t just to earn more, but to build a fulfilling career that sustains you physically, emotionally, and mentally over the long haul. In the grand scheme of things, making a bit less in exchange for a life well-lived is not a compromise; it’s a strategic choice for lasting happiness and impact.
Wendy Bowles PhD, APRN-CNP, CNE
Associate Clinical Professor, Associate Dean for Baccalaureate ProgramsWhat general advice would you give to an Assistant Nurse Manager?
Wendy Bowles PhD, APRN-CNP, CNE: To maximize your salary potential you should consider going back to school and pursuing your doctorate degree from a high quality, reputable institution. There are many programs that offer BSN to doctorate pathways and that will enhance earnings potential.
Dr. Erin Bailey DNP, APRN, FNP-C
MSN CoordinatorStephen F Austin State University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What Assistant Nurse Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Erin Bailey DNP, APRN, FNP-C: Be patient. You may not get the exact job you want right out of nursing school but I bet it is available within 2 years of graduation. You do not have to take one you hate but experience is key to advancing.
What will help Assistant Nurse Managers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Erin Bailey DNP, APRN, FNP-C: Learn from everyone! Learn what is good and learn what not to do from those that are not. Managers will notice. Treat all patients and coworkers fairly. As a new nurse, volunteer for the nights and holiday differentials. People notice when you do and you make more. If you have debt to pay off, consider the residency programs that will help you do that. The Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program of 2024 is also a good place to look. This way you can save more of your salary.
What Assistant Nurse Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Alison Alaimo MSN, RN: Nurses spend their days or nights assisting clients and their loved ones on their healthcare journeys. They possess a variety of tools and knowledge in which to do this. They assess and monitor patients, which is often a very dynamic process. They are trained to provide emergency response treatment. They administer medications and perform various aspects of patient care. They provide education to patients and loved ones and advocate for patients' rights and needs. Nurses maintained detailed documentation on all information pertaining to patients. They also work closely as a member of an interdisciplinary healthcare team. Finally, they also maintain their own professional development as changes in healthcare are frequent and/or they are interested in pursuing advanced degrees or certifications. Nurses work tirelessly to promote positive patient outcomes
What will help Assistant Nurse Managers increase their earning potential?
Alison Alaimo MSN, RN: I think the biggest thing people like about nursing is the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others which is highly rewarding. Job stability in the field as well as variety and flexibility are also viewed as favorable. Nurses can also have a high degree of autonomy in their practice allowing them to make clinical decisions. Finally, there are always opportunities for leadership advancement and a large variety of advanced education that can be obtained in the field. Some of the things people dislike about being a nurse are the high workloads and emotional stress that often come with the job. There is also often a lack of recognition and support for nurses. The tasks of nursing can also be physically demanding, and nurses must be careful not to accidentally injury themselves on the job. Administrative burdens such as documenting can reduce the amount of time a nurse can spend on direct patient care and may cause frustration for some nurses. Overall though, I think the positive aspects of being a nurse far outweigh the negative ones.
Dr. Theresa Buxton PhD, RN, CNE
Nursing Department ChairMetropolitan State University of Denver
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What Assistant Nurse Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Theresa Buxton PhD, RN, CNE: Obtaining a minimum of a baccalaureate degree in nursing is the first step in advancing your salary potential if you decide on a career path of advanced practice or further graduate education.
Dr. Monika Feeney
Department Head for the School of Anesthesia and School of NursingMissouri State University
School of Nursing
What skills will help Assistant Nurse Managers earn the most?
Dr. Monika Feeney: Advanced practice skills/certifications generally increase your income potential.
Natalya Pasklinsky
Executive Director of Simulation LearningNew York University
Rory Meyers College of Nursing
What soft skills should all Assistant Nurse Managers possess?
Natalya Pasklinsky: Advocacy and leadership skills needed to advance health equity, Skills in collaboration, systems thinking and community building for advancing care excellence and reform, skills in creating healthy work environments, and innovation skills for reimagining new structures and access for improving health for populations and communities.
Wendy Robb Ph.D.
Dean & Professor, School of Nursing, Hazel and Walter May Nursing Endowed Chair for Excellence in NursingCedar Crest College
School of Nursing
What type of skills will young Assistant Nurse Managers need?
Wendy Robb Ph.D.: First and foremost, our newest crop of professional nurses will need resiliency - the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties - toughness!! (Oxford dictionary) These nurses will need mental toughness and will be asked to flex further than they've ever flexed before. As health care professionals we need to support their mental health and professional development as new nurses. Encourage meditation, relaxation, exercise, walks in nature, etc. New graduates entering the current healthcare system may be questioning their choice of profession and their decision to become a nurse, particularly with the overlay of politicism with the pandemic. It is our responsibility to help them through and prepare them, equip them for short-term and long-term successes. We don't know exactly how they will fair, but it is our essential duty to nurture them. They will be a special breed, a group of new nurses who entered the profession during a full-blown pandemic in the Year of the Nurse and Midwife (2020). I wonder what Florence Nightingale would think? I am sure she would be proud and expect nothing less than our best!
What experience really stands out on Assistant Nurse Manager resumes?
Wendy Robb Ph.D.: The quality that I would be looking for on a resume is balance. Nurses need to protect themselves and their long-term mental health. This happens through self-care. Investment in self is one way to demonstrate self-care. Whether this is through hobbies, extra-curricular interests, volunteering and service, activities outside of nursing are an important indicator of self-care.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Assistant Nurse Managers?
Wendy Robb Ph.D.: A resounding, YES, there will be an enduring impact on the coronavirus pandemic on new nursing graduates! Many graduates likely missed out on components of their nursing education, whether it was experiences in the simulation labs, unit restrictions in the hospitals, or specific experiences that were eliminated as a result of the pandemic. Their nursing education was changed forever and they will not make up that lost time. They will grow and develop from it in different ways building collateral knowledge from experiences that are not often taught in nursing school. But they most certainly will be inexplicably changed by their pandemic entrance into the profession of nursing!
New graduates may have been denied the traditional period of transition from expert student nurse to novice registered nurse. This phase of adaptation is complex and difficult during the best of times. New nurses who are entering the profession during a pandemic are faced with stressful conditions, feelings of unpreparedness, absent or minimalized preceptorship, and general chaos. As new nurses enter the profession they are typically consumed with becoming acclimated to the responsibilities of the role. With the pandemic, these new nurses are experiencing the constant flux of treatment protocols, fear of contamination, long hours and physical fatigue, all while managing high patient morbidity and mortality as surrogate family member and professional nurse.
Ashley Bell MSN, RN, OCN, CNE
Assistant ProfessorMissouri Baptist University
School of Nursing
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Assistant Nurse Managers?
Ashley Bell MSN, RN, OCN, CNE: Yes, there will be an enduring impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on graduates. We have already seen that our students have reported abbreviated or virtual orientations. The first year of nursing has historically been a time when we see the burnout of young nurses. However, the stressors have tremendously increased due to the pandemic and strain that it has placed on the healthcare system as a whole. Graduates are reporting increased patient loads and a lack of adequate support services to aid in orientation to the competent nurse role. Despite these very real challenges, our graduates have shown extreme resiliency and perseverance, even in these tough times.
What experience really stands out on Assistant Nurse Manager resumes?
Ashley Bell MSN, RN, OCN, CNE: Experiences that stand out on resumes include internships and externships, where students are able to operate in a capacity similar to the registered nurse role under the direction of an RN. Also, working as unlicensed assistive personnel, like patient care technicians, is a valuable experience. Involvement in professional nursing organizations is also another area that would make a new graduate stand out.
What type of skills will young Assistant Nurse Managers need?
Ashley Bell MSN, RN, OCN, CNE: In addition to critical thinking and clinical judgment skills, students should have skills sets in resiliency and emotional intelligence.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Assistant Nurse Managers to find work opportunities?
Vilma Davis: As previously mentioned, there is a need for nurses throughout the United States. Most nursing programs will intermittently have nurse recruiters come on campus, giving students an opportunity to ask questions and get information about the job market. This is one way that graduates can get plugged into where the needs of nurses are. Graduates can also visit the websites of various hospitals and see what openings are available for which they can apply. Doing a simple google search for "nursing jobs" will yield a plethora of available jobs that they can review and make the decision which they would like to pursue.