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Registered nurse manager job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected registered nurse manager job growth rate is 6% from 2018-2028.
About 195,400 new jobs for registered nurse managers are projected over the next decade.
Registered nurse manager salaries have increased 10% for registered nurse managers in the last 5 years.
There are over 267,405 registered nurse managers currently employed in the United States.
There are 479,983 active registered nurse manager job openings in the US.
The average registered nurse manager salary is $74,459.
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 267,405 | 0.08% |
| 2020 | 260,275 | 0.08% |
| 2019 | 259,415 | 0.08% |
| 2018 | 255,508 | 0.08% |
| 2017 | 250,211 | 0.08% |
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $74,459 | $35.80 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $72,453 | $34.83 | +2.2% |
| 2023 | $70,901 | $34.09 | +2.5% |
| 2022 | $69,191 | $33.26 | +2.3% |
| 2021 | $67,659 | $32.53 | +1.4% |
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 939 | 124% |
| 2 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 1,624 | 121% |
| 3 | Vermont | 623,657 | 727 | 117% |
| 4 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 1,537 | 115% |
| 5 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 972 | 112% |
| 6 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 7,382 | 108% |
| 7 | Alaska | 739,795 | 787 | 106% |
| 8 | Delaware | 961,939 | 962 | 100% |
| 9 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 1,041 | 99% |
| 10 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 2,004 | 96% |
| 11 | Indiana | 6,666,818 | 5,986 | 90% |
| 12 | Florida | 20,984,400 | 18,630 | 89% |
| 13 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 10,804 | 84% |
| 14 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 2,632 | 84% |
| 15 | Tennessee | 6,715,984 | 5,558 | 83% |
| 16 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 579 | 83% |
| 17 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 6,064 | 82% |
| 18 | West Virginia | 1,815,857 | 1,456 | 80% |
| 19 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 1,508 | 79% |
| 20 | South Carolina | 5,024,369 | 3,822 | 76% |
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Muskegon | 7 | 18% | $74,159 |
| 2 | Whittier | 8 | 9% | $114,774 |
| 3 | Grand Rapids | 16 | 8% | $74,301 |
| 4 | Fort Lauderdale | 8 | 4% | $64,933 |
| 5 | Overland Park | 7 | 4% | $67,206 |
| 6 | Wichita | 10 | 3% | $67,082 |
| 7 | Cincinnati | 8 | 3% | $65,587 |
| 8 | Buffalo | 7 | 3% | $92,506 |
| 9 | Baltimore | 14 | 2% | $74,788 |
| 10 | Boston | 11 | 2% | $87,104 |
| 11 | Aurora | 9 | 2% | $73,030 |
| 12 | Kansas City | 8 | 2% | $68,684 |
| 13 | Los Angeles | 20 | 1% | $115,233 |
| 14 | Houston | 18 | 1% | $71,338 |
| 15 | Chicago | 14 | 1% | $73,247 |
| 16 | Austin | 10 | 1% | $71,837 |
| 17 | Denver | 10 | 1% | $73,033 |
| 18 | Phoenix | 10 | 1% | $84,069 |
| 19 | Memphis | 8 | 1% | $70,144 |
| 20 | New York | 38 | 0% | $95,130 |
Meharry Medical College
The University of Tampa
Harding University
George Fox University
Troy University
University of Maine
Francis Marion University
University of Southern Maine
Metropolitan State University of Denver
California State University - Dominguez Hills
Stephen F Austin State University
Prairie View A & M University
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Texas A&M University - Central Texas
Aurora University
Dr. Cynthia Aurentz DNP, MSN, RN, CNE: There is a wide range in salaries across nursing roles so be the best you can, wherever you land. Pursue certifications in your specialty and gain experience so that you are prepared for mobility across varying roles. Advanced practice roles require more school and if that seems intriguing, research the different specialties. Nurse anesthesia is one of the highest paying nursing roles but it is also one of the most competitive. If that is a goal, get as much critical care experience as you can and make friends with the admission coordinators at prospective schools—let them know how important it is to you!
Meharry Medical College
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences
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.
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.
Harding University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
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.
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.
Troy University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
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.
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.
Francis Marion University
Communication Disorders Sciences And Services
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.
University of Southern Maine
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
Dr. Debra Gillespie PhD, RN, CNE: ask questions and don't put too much pressure upon yourself. Be eager to learn new things, and stay on top of new initiatives in nursing and healthcare. Become a lifelong learner.
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.
California State University - Dominguez Hills
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
Cathy Andrade DNP, MSN, RN: It seems we are in a phase in healthcare where the use of technology is growing at a rapid pace. Having an open mind to accept and continue to build skills using new technologies will continue to be important factors for the future of nursing practice.
Cathy Andrade DNP, MSN, RN: My advice to Registered Nurses entering the workforce is to be open to opportunities that may not be their first choice. This can mean a nursing position in a department or a shift they may not have considered but may lead to future opportunities for a more desirable shift, or an opportunity in their preferred specialty.
Cathy Andrade DNP, MSN, RN: Nurses who have a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing degree often find there are more opportunities for employment for positions with higher salaries. An example of this is the Magnet designation for hospitals, which requires that at least 80% of their nursing positions be filled by BSN prepared RNs. These positions generally offer higher salaries than positions in sub-acute care settings and in home health.
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.
Stephen F Austin State University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
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.
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.
Allyssa Harris RN, PhD, WHNP-BC: The health care system is experiencing a shortage of health care providers including nurses. Between 2020 and 2030 the need for RNs is expected to grow by 9% yearly, making the profession on of the fastest growing in the health care sector. Nurses and the care they provide will always be in demand, whether you are employed in a hospital environment or other health care setting. Furthermore, the skills that you learn as a nurse are transferrable. Nurses not only work in hospitals, but they also work in variety of settings such as health educators in business, health insurance case managers, they work in STEM industries as computer software developers, in law offices, in the travel industries on cruise lines, school settings and are business owners.
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.
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.
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
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.
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
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.
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. Theresa Buxton PhD, RN, CNE: Nursing students who graduate from their program and then pass their NCLEX licensing exam are beginning their professional career. It takes time to gain experience. After you’re employed make connections with the nursing staff who work with you. Don’t be afraid to ask them questions or double check your math if you are giving a medication different than what’s ordered or available.
Dr. Karen Macey-Stewart DNP, A-GNP-C, PMGT-BC: In today's world, nurses must be well-versed in technology as we have seen a rise in telehealth due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The utilization of technology will also play a crucial role in effective communication that is easy to understand, succinct, and culturally appropriate when providing healthcare services and education. However, we must remember that we cannot rely solely on technology but remain focused on the human side of caring as nurses. Other pertinent skills that will become important would be empathy, conflict resolution, and adaptability in healthcare, as it is constantly changing. Having these skills can save a client's life.
Dr. Karen Macey-Stewart DNP, A-GNP-C, PMGT-BC: As a new graduate student, it can be overwhelming to start your professional career. My first piece of advice is to be kind to yourself. It takes time to master all the clinical skills and judgment you learned in school. Secondly, give yourself some grace when facing challenges in understanding why a client or healthcare team member is difficult. Remember that you will be caring for people during the most vulnerable times of their lives. Finally, prioritize self-care by taking the time to recharge. Providing the best care for your clients is essential, and you shouldn't feel guilty about it. I always tell the students," Always remember to put your oxygen mask on first before helping others."
Dr. Karen Macey-Stewart DNP, A-GNP-C, PMGT-BC: One of the best pieces of advice I can offer is to seize every opportunity that comes your way. Get involved in committee work, volunteer your time, and mentor those who are following in your footsteps. Don't limit your education to just a BSN or MSN degree; strive to obtain the highest degree possible. Lastly, join nursing organizations that align with your passions, and stay up-to-date with policy changes both locally and on a federal level. Remember, every policy impacts healthcare and nursing in many ways. Don't be afraid; we are the most trusted profession for a reason!
Natalie Heywood DNP, RN, CNE: I encourage new graduate nurses to embrace their first role and lean into the opportunity they have to ask questions, ask for more time on certain skills or patients, and make connections with their RN colleagues to develop mentorship relationships. I also recommend that new graduate nurses create a community both within their clinical setting with fellow new grads, experienced nurses/mentors, and other healthcare team members, as well as at home create that same community to support them. The first few years of a new nurses career lays the foundation for the rest of their career, so it's important to give yourself grace as you learn & build your confidence. A final piece of advice is to prioritize your mental health and well-being. You can't take care of others if you neglect yourself so find ways to balance your needs with the demands of your job, family and other responsibilities. This will be so important throughout your entire career, not just at the beginning.
Natalie Heywood DNP, RN, CNE: When you are first starting as a nurse, it will be important to find a role that fits best for you. This could be in terms of the facility, unit, leadership, etc. To increase your salary potential as a nurse, you can focus on earning specialty certification for your area of specialization. An example of this would be an emergency room nurse earning their Certified Emergency Nurse (CNE) or an ICU nurse earning their Critical Care Certified Nurse (CCRN). In order to take these specialty exams, you usually need 2+ years of bedside practice. I recommend taking those first two years of your career to focus on gaining confidence in the RN role. Additionally, nurses can also look at furthering their education, through earning a graduate degree in nursing, which opens up opportunities including education and leadership roles. Many MSN-prepared nurses also work bedside.
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.
Texas A&M University - Central Texas
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
Dawn Riess Ph.D., RN, ACUE: Nursing is difficult both physically and emotionally, but it is rewarding. Entry nurses may feel overwhelmed when they first enter the nursing field. I recommend you seek out a mentor and follow up with that person often. Texas Nursing Association (TNA) offers a mentoring program, I recommend you join that organization to help support you as you enter the nursing field. You will have good and bad days when you first begin your career. Having support in the unit you work in is important and usually, the organization has an internship program. You will have a direct impact on people's lives at the worst time in their lives. If someone is stressed, they may take that out on you but do not take it personally.
There are so many different avenues for entry-level nurses. If you don't want to work in the hospital setting, you can go into community health, clinics, outpatient rehab, home health, school nursing, informatics, and more. The flexibility offered in nursing is phenomenal. Your patients may not remember your name, but they will remember how you made them feel. Your impact on patient's lives is limitless. Nurses are present from birth to death and everything in between.
Dawn Riess Ph.D., RN, ACUE: Soft skills are extremely important in healthcare and employers are requiring a nurse force that can meet these expectations. The ability to talk to your patients and show empathy is vitally important. Working on nonverbal communication and making someone feel heard is extremely important. You will never know everything, but if you talk to your patients and convey a caring attitude, then you will be an effective nurse.
The ability to use electronic devices is important in the nursing field and may be a specialty available to experienced nurses (Informatic Nursing). Most areas in healthcare have electronic documentation and use multiple devices for patient care from a handheld device to a computer. The ability to set up devices that link to electronic health records is part of nursing care today.
Dawn Riess Ph.D., RN, ACUE: The nursing shortage is an ongoing issue. As the number of nurses decreases, the pay scale increases. Having a varied background in nursing care makes you more marketable. Know your worth by researching what nurses make in different fields and then voice your pay expectations. Advancement is possible in many areas of nursing care. The hospital setting is usually the highest paying employer, as that is where a large percentage of nurses are needed. Having a minimum of a bachelor's degree is required for ongoing advancement. Choosing a specialty (ICU, OR, ED, Cath lab, etc.) area in nursing will also increase your salary potential. Taking advantage of any certifications will also increase your salary and marketability.
Aurora University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
Christina Cicero: Utilize your resources and ask for help. The seasoned nurses, managers and educators are there to support you, but you need to be willing to accept the feedback.
Christina Cicero: Communication skills and the willingness to be a life-long learner because we are continuing to see the advancements and changes in healthcare and in nursing education.
Christina Cicero: Find a place of employment with a clinical ladder system and continue to take advantage of all professional development opportunities.