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Job outlook for office nurses in the United States
Office nurse job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected office nurse job growth rate is 6% from 2018-2028.
About 195,400 new jobs for office nurses are projected over the next decade.
Office nurse salaries have increased 10% for office nurses in the last 5 years.
There are over 19,522 office nurses currently employed in the United States.
There are 278,856 active office nurse job openings in the US.
The average office nurse salary is $58,587.
Are office nurse jobs in demand?
Office nurse job and salary trends over time
Office nurse jobs over time
Office nurse job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 19,522 | 0.01% |
| 2020 | 19,131 | 0.01% |
| 2019 | 19,104 | 0.01% |
| 2018 | 18,910 | 0.01% |
| 2017 | 18,621 | 0.01% |
Average office nurse salary over time
Office nurse salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $58,587 | $28.17 | +2.8% |
| 2025 | $57,008 | $27.41 | +2.2% |
| 2024 | $55,787 | $26.82 | +2.5% |
| 2023 | $54,442 | $26.17 | +2.3% |
| 2022 | $53,236 | $25.59 | +1.4% |
Office nurse jobs by state
Most common states for office nurses
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 1,443 | 107% |
| 2 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 930 | 107% |
| 3 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 748 | 99% |
| 4 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 6,754 | 98% |
| 5 | Vermont | 623,657 | 614 | 98% |
| 6 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 1,227 | 92% |
| 7 | Delaware | 961,939 | 843 | 88% |
| 8 | Alaska | 739,795 | 652 | 88% |
| 9 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 853 | 81% |
| 10 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 1,646 | 79% |
| 11 | Indiana | 6,666,818 | 5,188 | 78% |
| 12 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 9,554 | 75% |
| 13 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 512 | 74% |
| 14 | Florida | 20,984,400 | 15,343 | 73% |
| 15 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 2,158 | 69% |
| 16 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 1,290 | 67% |
| 17 | Tennessee | 6,715,984 | 4,423 | 66% |
| 18 | West Virginia | 1,815,857 | 1,203 | 66% |
| 19 | Ohio | 11,658,609 | 7,581 | 65% |
| 20 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 4,730 | 64% |
Most common cities for office nurses
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elmhurst | 17 | 37% | $72,362 |
| 2 | Milford | 5 | 18% | $85,887 |
| 3 | Lancaster | 8 | 14% | $66,470 |
| 4 | Uniondale | 2 | 8% | $87,225 |
| 5 | Naperville | 7 | 5% | $72,155 |
| 6 | Hagerstown | 2 | 5% | $64,444 |
| 7 | Lombard | 2 | 5% | $72,307 |
| 8 | Manheim | 2 | 5% | $66,504 |
| 9 | Frisco | 7 | 4% | $60,622 |
| 10 | Addison | 1 | 3% | $72,339 |
| 11 | Brandon | 2 | 2% | $48,049 |
| 12 | Tampa | 2 | 1% | $48,071 |
| 13 | New York | 5 | 0% | $87,197 |
Office Nurse job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of office nurse experts
Meharry Medical College
Shepherd University
George Fox University
Troy University
University of Wyoming
New York University
University of Maine
Francis Marion University
University of Southern Maine
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
University of Detroit Mercy
Stephen F Austin State University
Huertas College
Prairie View A & M University
Metropolitan State University of Denver
What general advice would you give to an Office Nurse?
Dr. Cynthia Aurentz DNP, MSN, RN, CNE: Nursing is a dynamic field and there are many options. You can work in an Emergency Room, pediatrics, oncology, or even as a vascular access specialist (and many others). One of the great things about Nursing is that if you find you don't like a particular specialty, making a change is easy. Having your RN license qualifies you to work anywhere that an RN license is required so it may simply be a matter of transferring to a different area. Nurses are lifelong learners and there is much to learn! It is beneficial to have a solid foundation in basic medical-surgical concepts. Nursing needs great med-surg nurses and employers are looking for those who are willing to provide excellent direct patient care at the bedside. I also recommend that you learn about Nurse advocacy and become involved. As soon as you graduate, join your State and National Nurse Associations so that you have a voice in the issues that impact Nursing.
Olugbemiga Ogunkua M.D., Ph.D.
ProfessorMeharry Medical College
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences
What general advice would you give to an Office Nurse?
Olugbemiga Ogunkua M.D., Ph.D.: 2. Ability to learn about new inventions. Computer has changed the field tremendously and knowledge comes at a fast and furry pace so you need to keep up with new knowledge and be able to discriminate about what is useful and relevant from what is not useful though may be novella. Mountains of new information can easily lead to confusion. Learn to know the rules first, before you embark with the new fag in town.
Lisa Zerull PhD, RN-BC
Assistant Professor of NursingShepherd University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to an Office Nurse?
Lisa Zerull PhD, RN-BC: Excellent clinical judgment, Flexibility and resiliency, Positive attitudes, Positive change agents—don't be part of the problem—be part of the team to effect positive change
What general advice would you give to an Office Nurse?
Kari Sandau MSN, RN, PCCN, CNE: Having good customer service and people skills will never go out of style. You can have all the knowledge and technical skills required to be a nurse, but if you don't know how to connect with people and care, you will be missing what we call the 'art' of nursing. I believe that technology will continue to become more integrated into healthcare systems, so it is important to have comfort with how we can use technology to improve care and patient outcomes. Healthcare is constantly changing, and nurses need to be innovative and adaptable.
What will help Office Nurses increase their earning potential?
Kari Sandau MSN, RN, PCCN, CNE: Don't be afraid to ask questions. Your nursing preceptors will not expect you to know everything. Give yourself grace and know that it may take several months to a year to feel comfortable and confident in your new role. Look for new positions with RN new grad residency programs to help support you in this transition from student to nurse. Take time to reflect on the care you give and how you want to improve. Care for yourself. Make sure you take time each week to do something that brings you joy. Spending time with friends, playing games, hiking, crafting, or exercising are important self-care activities.
Kayla Jackson RN BSN
BSN Success CoachTroy University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to an Office Nurse?
Kayla Jackson RN BSN: Salary potential varies depending on location, specialty and experience but a few ways to maximize your salary potential are: Consider pursuing further education which can include certifications in your field or area of expertise, an advanced degree, or specialized training. Gain experience. Seek out unique opportunities for professional growth so you can build an exceptional resume. This can position you for higher paying roles. Negotiate strategically-just as we advocate for our patients, we must be an advocate for ourselves. Do your research and know the standards where you are located, but also highlight the skill set you are bringing to the table and articulate how valuable you will be to their organization. Explore different employment settings. Nurses have so many opportunities in different fields, so explore what is out there and base your decision on who offers the best salary and benefits.
What will help Office Nurses increase their earning potential?
Kayla Jackson RN BSN: The advice I would give to new graduates entering the field would be to cultivate resilience, as nursing is an emotionally and physically demanding profession. Develop coping skills, seek out help and support early, and prioritize self-care to help prevent burnout. I would also encourage you to stay adaptable and embrace life-long learning. Healthcare is a constantly evolving field with continuous advancements and changes in protocol. As nurses, we must stay flexible and adapt to these constant changes and keep an open mind for learning as well as new opportunities. Lastly, nursing is a collaborative field. Therefore, we must foster strong relationships with our colleagues and patients in order to be the best advocate we can be for the patients and provide the highest quality of care.
Karen Gorton PhD, RN, FNP, MS
Associate Dean, Associate ProfessorUniversity of Wyoming
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to an Office Nurse?
Karen Gorton PhD, RN, FNP, MS: Continue to learn and grow. When opportunities for professional development arise, ask your managers to support you in gaining further knowledge and certifications. When you start in your first job, salary is important, but not as important as having an environment that will support you in your growth and development as a RN. If you have completed any micro-credentials, be sure to highlight those in the application process. For example, if you have completed the IHI Open School Basic Certificate in Quality and Safety, note that in your certifications on your resume. The increased knowledge and certifications may lead to some pay increases.
What Office Nurse skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Karen Gorton PhD, RN, FNP, MS: In nursing, the ability to think critically within the clinical context, communication, and assessment skills will continue to be very important. You, as the nurse, are with the patient for more hours than any other provider. Your ability to look at the patient combined with your assessment, their current issues, their lab values, and clinical presentation will be the difference in their outcome. Once you put your pieces together, your ability to clearly communicate your findings with the providers will advocate for the patient and their care.
What will help Office Nurses increase their earning potential?
Karen Gorton PhD, RN, FNP, MS: As a recently graduated nurse who has passed NCLEX-RN, I would encourage you to be sure to learn all that you can from your mentors and preceptors who are helping you orient to your new role/position. They have so much knowledge that can be very helpful to your continued growth as a RN. Be sure to demonstrate informed inquiry – ask them questions that demonstrate your understanding of the context, but also your desire to learn more. Find a new graduate residency program to start your employment as a RN in. This program will provide you support for your first 9-12 months of working as a nurse.
Dr. Kelseanne Breder PhD, PMHNP, GERO-BC
Clinical Assistant ProfessorNew York University
Health Professions And Related Clinical Sciences
What Office Nurse skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Kelseanne Breder PhD, PMHNP, GERO-BC: Obtain certifications through the American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC), specialize in underserved populations, know your value.
What will help Office Nurses increase their earning potential?
Dr. Kelseanne Breder PhD, PMHNP, GERO-BC: Seek job opportunities that offer you ample supervision. Supervision is critical to furthering your education and refining on-the-job expertise in the specific practice setting where you have chosen to work.
What general advice would you give to an Office Nurse?
Jordan Porter DNP, APRN, FNP-BC: In this field, where the environment is constantly changing and the stakes are always high, it's critical for new nurses to prioritize emotional agility. What I mean by that is having the courage to face tough emotions, being curious about them rather than fearful, and treating yourself with compassion as you work through them. This isn't just about handling stress; it's about aligning these experiences with your core values and purpose. For example, Adam Grant in his book 'Hidden Potential' really hits the nail on the head. He talks about becoming a discomfort seeker, a relentless learner, and embracing imperfections along the way. These aren't just tips; they're necessary traits to navigate the complexities of healthcare with resilience and adaptability. I believe mastering this kind of emotional agility is as crucial as any clinical skill a nurse learns.
Deborah Hopla DNP, APRN-BC, FAANP, FAAN
ProfessorFrancis Marion University
Communication Disorders Sciences And Services
What general advice would you give to an Office Nurse?
Deborah Hopla DNP, APRN-BC, FAANP, FAAN: You can maximize your salary potential by negotiating. Bring your skills, experience, and never sell yourself short. This is the time to ensure the job is a right fit and that you are considering all the potential benefits and opportunities.
What will help Office Nurses increase their earning potential?
Deborah Hopla DNP, APRN-BC, FAANP, FAAN: The general advice I would give to a nursing graduate student as they begin their career in nursing is to understand every patient you treat is someone’s Mom, Dad, Aunt, Uncle, Brother, Sister, Child. Treat patients like they are your family member. Always keep up with the latest evidence and treatment options.
Dr. Debra Gillespie PhD, RN, CNE
Associate Professor of NursingUniversity of Southern Maine
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to an Office Nurse?
Dr. Debra Gillespie PhD, RN, CNE: Skills needed in the future will more than likely involve the use of technology. AI and other technologies are rapidly being developed and implemented into the healthcare system.
What Office Nurse skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Debra Gillespie PhD, RN, CNE: Salary depends upon experience and location. As a new grade you may have the opportunity to ask if there is a set salary or a range. Location is also important as many rural organizations do not have the resources as larger facilities have. Working in large urban areas organizations try to stay competitive with other organizations including salaries.
What general advice would you give to an Office Nurse?
Dr. Cindy Krentz DNP, RN, ACUE: Nursing is undoubtedly a challenging profession. The emotional toll of caring for patients, especially when outcomes aren't favorable, can be heavy. The physical demands, from lifting patients to long shifts on nurses’ feet, add another layer of difficulty. Workplace violence and dealing with rude or demanding patients further compound these challenges. Moreover, the feeling of being under-appreciated can wear on nurses, especially considering the critical role they play in healthcare. Improving nurse-to-patient ratios and addressing the root causes of workplace stress are essential steps toward ensuring both nurses and patients receive the care they deserve.
What Office Nurse skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Cindy Krentz DNP, RN, ACUE: Entering the nursing profession at present offers numerous advantages. Firstly, there's a widespread shortage of nurses nationwide, making nursing a highly sought-after career. With the aging population and retiring nurses, there's a pressing need for new nurses to fill these vacancies. Additionally, nursing offers diverse career paths, allowing individuals to transition between different specialties if desired. Moreover, the field boasts high earning potential, job stability, and flexibility in scheduling.
What will help Office Nurses increase their earning potential?
Dr. Cindy Krentz DNP, RN, ACUE: Nursing encompasses a wide range of specialties, from forensic and flight nursing to hospice care, hospital nursing, research, and public health nursing, among others. Regardless of the specific role, the fundamental task common to all nurses is assessment. This involves evaluating patients' physical, mental, and overall well-being. Physically, nurses conduct examinations, monitor vital signs, assess pain levels, and consider the broader context to provide comprehensive reports to healthcare providers. Given that nurses are present round-the-clock in hospitals, they play a crucial role in relaying their assessments to providers, who typically visit once or twice a day.
What general advice would you give to an Office Nurse?
Becky Farmer MSRS, RT (R)(M): Soft skills, our new grads sometimes forget we are in the patient care business. Someone's mom, aunt, dad, grandpa are the ones we are caring for and we must listen well and take the best care of them possible. That's what they will remember.
What Office Nurse skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Becky Farmer MSRS, RT (R)(M): Best advice for new graduates is to never stop learning, gain all the certifications you can and keep a positive attitude. Remember networking is key to a successful career!
What will help Office Nurses increase their earning potential?
Becky Farmer MSRS, RT (R)(M): Education, Education, Education! That is the key to earning potential. Experience is great as well and being the kind of person everyone wants to hire. Being kind, generous, caring and having a great work ethic, that will get you far in life and in your career field.
Wendy Bowles PhD, APRN-CNP, CNE
Associate Clinical Professor, Associate Dean for Baccalaureate ProgramsWhat will help Office Nurses increase their earning potential?
Wendy Bowles PhD, APRN-CNP, CNE: Nursing offers many opportunities for a career and you never know what door will open for you in your calling to care. You should explore many possibilities and not limit yourself to any one particular area. It is also important to explore your future career and educational doors in the future.
Dr. Ashlee Barnes DNP, APRN, FNP-C
Assistant ProfessorUniversity of Detroit Mercy
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to an Office Nurse?
Dr. Ashlee Barnes DNP, APRN, FNP-C: Nursing remains an excellent career path, characterized by its evolving landscape and opportunities, continual growth, and soaring demand in a variety of settings. Nursing guarantees job stability, possibility for both personal and professional advancement, and the satisfaction of positively impacting people's lives.
Dr. Erin Bailey DNP, APRN, FNP-C
MSN CoordinatorStephen F Austin State University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to an Office Nurse?
Dr. Erin Bailey DNP, APRN, FNP-C: Empathy and grit. Nurses definitely need empathy to care for patients but COVID and the changes in the world have taught us that new nurses need grit and self-care. Burn-out is a real thing. Nurses need to think about and advocate for their own safety and health-mental and physical. Take a self-defense class and learn de-escalation tips. Be aware of your surroundings. Do not get trapped in a room by yourself with an aggressive agitate patient. Also, do not work seven 12 hour shifts in a row as a new nurse. It is not healthy for you. Find a nurse that you can decompress and debrief with. Most new nurses burn-out in less than 10 years. This is the key to longevity in this field and will allow you to increase your earning potential.
What Office Nurse 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 Office Nurses 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.
Folake Adelakun DNP, MBA, HCA, MSN, BSN, RN, PHN,CNE
Clinical Assistant ProfessorHuertas College
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to an Office Nurse?
Folake Adelakun DNP, MBA, HCA, MSN, BSN, RN, PHN,CNE: There is a huge demand for nurses and it is projected that there will even be more shortage of nurses in the future. There are so many specialties to choose from. The reward of caring for people at the most vulnerable state in life. Good pay comparable to some professions even though not yet where it should be. Opportunity to be an autonomous practitioner.
What Office Nurse skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Folake Adelakun DNP, MBA, HCA, MSN, BSN, RN, PHN,CNE: People love nursing because it has been rated the most trusted profession in the United States continually. The reward of appreciation for caring for others. Good pay comparable to some professions. Numerous specialties to choose from. You will always have a job. Lifelong learning. Some dislike nursing because it demands a lot physically, emotionally, and mentally. Stress and job burnout. Work overload. Not enough renumeration. Constant change. Not being appreciated sometimes.
What general advice would you give to an Office Nurse?
Allyssa Harris RN, PhD, WHNP-BC: Daily, nurses with the health care team to manage and coordinate patient care which include physical assessments-assessing, observing, and evaluating the patient's response to care, administering medication and treatments, assisting with procedures, and providing health education to patients and their families. Additionally, nurses often supervise other unlicensed health care team members including licensed vocational nurses, patient care technicians (PCTs) and nursing students.
What will help Office Nurses increase their earning potential?
Allyssa Harris RN, PhD, WHNP-BC: I can't speak for everyone but what I like about being a nurse is the ability to connect one on one with the patient and their family. Patients allow us the privilege of providing care and comfort during one of the most vulnerable times in their lives. It is the connection that we share that is the most rewarding. I believe that is this care and education that provides patients with the opportunity to make knowledgeable decisions about their health and well-being. What is most challenging about nursing is the increasing complexity of the patient care provide. Often patients enter the health care system later, having delayed care variety or reasons including lack of access, socio-economic challenges, unawareness, etc. This often increases the complexity of the care needed and nurses are required to have a broad knowledge of many things. I wouldn't say that they dislike the nursing profession, but the work is challenging.
What general advice would you give to an Office Nurse?
Alison Alaimo MSN, RN: Nursing is a good profession to enter for several reasons. It is a very demanding, yet very fulfilling career. Nurses get to have a direct impact on patient health outcomes. The demand for nurses is exceedingly high now. Our students are securing employment one or even two semesters before they graduate from the nursing program. Nursing is also a career path which is available everywhere so no matter where you go, you can have a job in nursing. There are diverse career opportunities in nursing, so jobs are available no matter a person's interests. Working as a nurse offers a lot of flexibility so nurses can work nights, full-time, part-time, or per diem. The high demand for nurses is driving competitive compensation and benefits packages. Many hospitals will assist students in paying off student loans in return for a work agreement. Finally, there is always room for professional growth. Continuing education opportunities abound and there is always the option to pursue an advanced degree or other specialized training.
What Office Nurse 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
Dr. Theresa Buxton PhD, RN, CNE
Nursing Department ChairMetropolitan State University of Denver
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to an Office Nurse?
Dr. Theresa Buxton PhD, RN, CNE: Some of the most important skills to hone over the next three years is communication, time management, and self-care.
Communication is important because nursing is a team sport. If you need help, ask early. If you see a change in your patient that worries you, ask someone to weigh in. Communicate clearly with other nursing colleagues.
Time management is an important skill to learn but takes practice. Time management is a combination of knowing how long tasks should take and what happens when priorities shift.
Self-care is needed to learn to balance your time away from work with time on the job to keep you whole in mind, body, and spirit.
What will help Office Nurses increase their earning potential?
Natalie Heywood DNP, RN, CNE: I think one of the most important and prevalent skills that will be prevalent in the next 3-5 years in nursing is the ability to communicate with patients in a therapeutic manner that supports trust and mutual respect. Additionally, a skill that will be vital to current and future nurses is the ability to provide individualized care. Our patient populations are increasingly complex and unique, and it will be important for health providers to care for all individuals based on their needs and where they are at the moment. Lastly, as we see the increase of technology and AI use in healthcare, we need to be technology proficient and confident, as well as flexible in the use of these tools to improve patient care.