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Job outlook for school nurses in the United States
School nurse job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected school nurse job growth rate is 6% from 2018-2028.
About 195,400 new jobs for school nurses are projected over the next decade.
School nurse salaries have increased 10% for school nurses in the last 5 years.
There are over 25,705 school nurses currently employed in the United States.
There are 282,124 active school nurse job openings in the US.
The average school nurse salary is $54,998.
Are school nurse jobs in demand?
School nurse job and salary trends over time
School nurse jobs over time
School nurse job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 25,705 | 0.01% |
| 2020 | 25,190 | 0.01% |
| 2019 | 25,155 | 0.01% |
| 2018 | 24,899 | 0.01% |
| 2017 | 24,518 | 0.01% |
Average school nurse salary over time
School nurse salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $54,998 | $26.44 | +2.8% |
| 2025 | $53,516 | $25.73 | +2.2% |
| 2024 | $52,370 | $25.18 | +2.5% |
| 2023 | $51,107 | $24.57 | +2.3% |
| 2022 | $49,975 | $24.03 | +1.4% |
School nurse jobs by state
Most common states for school nurses
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 1,433 | 107% |
| 2 | Vermont | 623,657 | 649 | 104% |
| 3 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 863 | 99% |
| 4 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 6,601 | 96% |
| 5 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 705 | 93% |
| 6 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 1,187 | 89% |
| 7 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 906 | 86% |
| 8 | Delaware | 961,939 | 811 | 84% |
| 9 | Alaska | 739,795 | 610 | 82% |
| 10 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 528 | 76% |
| 11 | Indiana | 6,666,818 | 4,810 | 72% |
| 12 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 2,197 | 70% |
| 13 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 8,867 | 69% |
| 14 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 1,300 | 68% |
| 15 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 4,080 | 67% |
| 16 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 1,393 | 67% |
| 17 | Ohio | 11,658,609 | 7,721 | 66% |
| 18 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 1,934 | 66% |
| 19 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 381 | 66% |
| 20 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 4,814 | 65% |
Most common cities for school nurses
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bangor | 11 | 34% | $58,170 |
| 2 | Monroe | 9 | 26% | $45,937 |
| 3 | Bloomington | 7 | 8% | $56,973 |
| 4 | Aurora | 8 | 4% | $57,090 |
| 5 | Santa Clarita | 8 | 4% | $66,649 |
| 6 | Sacramento | 14 | 3% | $70,146 |
| 7 | Saint Louis | 9 | 3% | $43,750 |
| 8 | Pittsburgh | 8 | 3% | $61,662 |
| 9 | Denver | 15 | 2% | $54,285 |
| 10 | Oakland | 8 | 2% | $70,363 |
| 11 | Phoenix | 13 | 1% | $46,243 |
| 12 | Detroit | 8 | 1% | $62,747 |
| 13 | Boston | 7 | 1% | $77,185 |
| 14 | New York | 29 | 0% | $68,040 |
| 15 | Chicago | 12 | 0% | $57,201 |
School Nurse job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of school nurse experts
Shepherd University
Troy University
University of Wyoming
Francis Marion University
University of Detroit Mercy
Prairie View A & M University
George Fox University
Mars Hill University
Missouri State University
New York University
New York University
Loyola University New Orleans
Western Carolina University
Elmhurst University
Hope College
Penn State Erie, The Behrend College
California State University - Fresno
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 a School 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
Kayla Jackson RN BSN
BSN Success CoachTroy University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to a School 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.
Karen Gorton PhD, RN, FNP, MS
Associate Dean, Associate ProfessorUniversity of Wyoming
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What School 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.
Deborah Hopla DNP, APRN-BC, FAANP, FAAN
ProfessorFrancis Marion University
Communication Disorders Sciences And Services
What will help School 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.
Wendy Bowles PhD, APRN-CNP, CNE
Associate Clinical Professor, Associate Dean for Baccalaureate ProgramsWhat general advice would you give to a School Nurse?
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.
What will help School 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 a School 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.
What will help School 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 a School 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 will help School 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.
Kara Sump MSN, CNE
Assistant Professor of NursingGeorge Fox University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to a School Nurse?
Kara Sump MSN, CNE: Some of this is driven already by practice location, specialty, and unions (if entering a unionized position). I would do your research about what to expect and come with an expectation that you should be able to negotiate a pay rate if you have some background such as previous practice as a CNA, Medication aide, LPN, or another medically related field that is translatable to the nursing practice role. You might consider what relevant job shadows or volunteer work you could do should you not have any of the above. Or perhaps, what previous experience do you have that speaks to teamwork, delegation, managing others, communications, or other essential functions of nursing and being able to articulate how this should afford you a higher wage. Other helpful things- being flexible with shift- nights/weekends, speaking another language and being able to get certified as an interpreter.
Clare Chambers
Assistant Professor of NursingMars Hill University
Nursing Department
What skills stand out on School Nurse resumes?
Clare Chambers: Skills that typically stand out on RN resumes include special certifications such as Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) or Acute/Critical Care Nursing (CCRN). Managers also tend to pay attention to applicants who have volunteer experience or are members of nursing organizations within their educational programs or nationally. Other useful skills include any previous electronic medical record experience or working at the bedside previously as a certified nurse assistant if the nurse is newly licensed.
What soft skills should all School Nurses possess?
Clare Chambers: Soft skills are a critical part of any healthcare profession. The key skills for nurses specifically are leadership, interdisciplinary teamwork, intrinsic motivation, effective communication, excellent work ethic, and having a positive attitude. Emotional intelligence and empathy are also gaining more recognition as critical to long-term career success and effective patient care.
What hard/technical skills are most important for School Nurses?
Clare Chambers: Technical skills are critical for safe and effective nursing care. Some essential skills include the ability to safely start an IV, give oral medications, administer subcutaneous and intramuscular injections, take vital signs, do a thorough head-to-toe assessment, chart effectively, and utilize emergency safety equipment. Hard skills, in addition to foundational skills required for every nursing job, are going to be tailored to the specific specialty chosen by each nurse and that area of practice.
Dr. Monika Feeney
Department Head for the School of Anesthesia and School of NursingMissouri State University
School of Nursing
What skills stand out on School Nurse resumes?
Dr. Monika Feeney: Firstly to be a nurse, you have to pass multiple skills and technical duties to even be allowed to practice - one is not more important than another since all are patient care skills, and our graduates are taught to be safe providers. In addition, you have to pass a challenging board examination, the NCLEX. You need to be well-rounded and have technical skills as well as the mental capacity to assess and make safe decisions. Resilience and the ability to function safely in an ever-changing healthcare system are important. A kind and caring attitude with a hardworking spirit are what makes a great nurse. The ability to empathize and think on your feet is always important - not just during the current COVID situation. Hands that give kind care as well as a heart that cares.
Advanced practice skills/certifications generally increase your income potential.
What soft skills should all School Nurses possess?
Beth Latimer: 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.
What hard/technical skills are most important for School Nurses?
Beth Latimer: Technical skills are important to master. However, this happens more so "on the job" rather than at graduation. Only practice makes perfect when mastering a skill, and having daily interactions with patients will develop those hard technical skills necessary for success.
What skills will help School Nurses earn the most?
Beth Latimer: Critical thinking, prioritization, carefully assessing any situation at the appropriate time, not normalizing the abnormal, and escalating necessary crucial information to the team at that right moment in time will save lives. Great nurses notice, and when in doubt, will take the right actions to get the right type of intervention for their patients and their families with patient advocacy at the forefront.
Natalya Pasklinsky
Executive Director of Simulation LearningNew York University
Rory Meyers College of Nursing
What skills stand out on School Nurse resumes?
Natalya Pasklinsky: Stand-out skills on RN resumes include exposure and competence in public health framed nursing competencies. These include excellence in contextual, patient-centered, clinical care with health promotion, risk reduction expertise. Interprofessional educational experiences are sought after and highly regarded as working with high-performing interprofessional teams needed to plan, deliver, and improve outcomes with patient center care at the forefront is not only beneficial to patients and families but will improve patient outcomes in the long run. Expertise in navigating the health records system and documenting appropriately certainly helps the RN spend more time at the bedside rather than spending lots of time figuring out the electronic health record. At NYU Meyers, we implemented and are utilizing Epic as the electronic health record. Epic is widely utilized in the majority of health systems, and this certainly gives our patients an upper hand since they are continuously utilizing this in simulation. The students are then able to navigate this exact system in the clinical setting and are able to spend less time looking for the right page to document in since they are already familiar with this system.
What hard/technical skills are most important for School Nurses?
Natalya Pasklinsky: Technical skills are important to master. However, this happens more so "on the job" rather than at graduation. Only practice makes perfect when mastering a skill, and having daily interactions with patients will develop those hard technical skills necessary for success.
Cherie Burke Ph.D.
Director of the School of Nursing, Associate ProfessorLoyola University New Orleans
College of Nursing and Health
What soft skills should all School Nurses possess?
Cherie Burke Ph.D.: -Empathy
-Adaptability
-Respectful
Terrica Durbin Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Director, School of NursingWestern Carolina University
College of Health and Human Sciences
What skills stand out on School Nurse resumes?
Terrica Durbin Ph.D.: Communication, critical thinking, patient assessment, problem-solving, clinical skills specific to the nurse's setting, electronic recordkeeping, flexibility.
What soft skills should all School Nurses possess?
Terrica Durbin Ph.D.: Communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, flexibility.
What hard/technical skills are most important for School Nurses?
Terrica Durbin Ph.D.: Clinical skills specific to the nurse's setting, electronic recordkeeping, patient assessment, and prioritizing appropriate interventions.
Diane Salvador Ph.D.
Executive Director and ProfessorElmhurst University
Department of Nursing and Health Sciences
What hard/technical skills are most important for School Nurses?
Diane Salvador Ph.D.: New nurses should be prepared to demonstrate proficiency in basic nursing care and procedures. It is important to realize that each hospital has its own policy and procedure to follow, so taking advantage of your nurse preceptor and orientation program will ensure you are familiar with these basic procedures.
Sara Hoeve Ph.D.
Director of Student Teaching and Teacher CertificationHope College
Education Department
What's a good job out of college for School Nurses?
Sara Hoeve Ph.D.: Given the current teacher shortage in most stages, education graduates have the advantage when job searching. Almost all of our graduates accept full-time positions in K-12 schools immediately after graduation. Our graduates often find themselves with multiple job offers, especially if they are willing to relocate. Due to this demand, we encourage our graduates to carefully research and ask questions about the school districts as well, to make sure that they find a position that is a good fit for them as well. For our students who graduate in the middle of the school year, we often recommend that they take long-term sub positions in local school districts to gain experience and develop their instructional skills.
What soft skills should all School Nurses possess?
Kim Raines: Graduates have been confronted with harsh realities. They have had considerable remote learning which may have made them wiser to the value of being in person compared to a recording or reading and learning independently. Of course, there is a place for both. Some graduates have been even more personally affected by the pandemic. They may have suffered through the grim and enduring loss of hospitalized loved ones, many of whom were completely isolated. Graduates need to understand fully; the power of human touch, and the how and why superb communication - however limited it may be - is a lifeline for patients and families. Teamwork, flexibility and interpersonal skills take on a new meaning in the pandemic healthcare world. New graduates will need to focus on deliberate practices for staying well themselves (physically and emotionally) but also be extraordinarily conscious of ways to support their co-workers in real time and perhaps off the job as well.
Cheryl McDonald
Faculty & Coordinator, Education Specialist and Dual Credential programsCalifornia State University - Fresno
Literacy, Early, Bilingual and Special Education Department
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the School Nurse job market given the pandemic?
Cheryl McDonald: One of biggest trends in the job market, pandemic or not, is in education. There is real shortage of qualified educators, service providers and educational leaders, despite the incentives, stipends, or bonus monies that districts and universities use to attract candidates to the field. There is a shortage of qualified credentialed teachers in many teaching disciplines across most of the United States. The most severe shortages are in special education, mathematics, science, bilingual/dual immersion, and early childhood education. There is also a need for qualified school administrators, school psychologists, school social workers, school nurses, and school counselors.
All of these areas require specialized knowledge and specialized certification, in addition to a passion and dedication for the discipline. In California, for example, earning a teaching credential requires a Bachelor's degree, fingerprint clearance from local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, completion of the U.S. Constitution, basics skills, subject matter and literacy instruction requirements, typically through costly and rigorous tests, current certification in CPR for infants, children and adults, and completion of a teacher preparation program in the area of the credential. In special education, a candidate would need to complete a teacher preparation program in a specialty area: mild/moderate disabilities, moderate/severe disabilities, physical, visual, or health impairments, deaf and hard of hearing, or speech and language development.
Each day spent with students is unique and exciting. Teachers, service providers and leaders not only need to be qualified, they also need to be compassionate, collaborative, adaptable, flexible, and effective, especially when the unexpected arises. Virtual/online teaching skills are a plus. Teachers and educational leaders also need to be prepared to work with culturally- and linguistically-diverse student and family populations, with students who are gifted and talented, and students experiencing risk factors such as homelessness, poverty, drug or alcohol dependency, frequent absences or bullying.