Nursing Salaries

Overall, nursing salaries vary depending on a number of factors:

• Level of nursing degree and nursing education
• Years of experience in a chosen field
• State and city where you work (cost of living)
• Type of work you do
• Type of specialty you pursue

Licensed practical nurses typically train for their careers through a year-long education program at a hospital, community college or vocational school. After graduation, candidates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) to earn their nursing licensure.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' 2012-13 Occupational Outlook Handbook, the median national annual salary for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses is $40,380. Actual salaries may vary greatly based on specialization within the field, location, years of experience and a variety of other factors.

To become a registered nurse, students must earn a two-year associate's or four-year bachelor's degree in nursing or complete a nursing diploma program. After earning their degree, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain their registered nursing license.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' 2012-13 Occupational Outlook Handbook, the median national annual salary for registered nurses is $64,690. Actual salaries may vary greatly based on specialization within the field, location, years of experience and a variety of other factors.

Advanced Practice Nurses hold a master's degree in a particular focus area and provide one-on-one patient care services similar to those a physician would perform. The following statistics show annual nurse salary ranges for the different categories of advanced practice nursing careers.

<sub>Sources: Salary.com's May 2012 Survey; Certified Nurse Anesthetist; Certified Nurse Midwife; Clinical Nurse Specialist; Nurse Practitioner.

*The salary information listed is based on a national average, unless noted. Actual salaries may vary greatly based on specialization within the field, location, years of experience and a variety of other factors.</sub>

The nursing shortage offers extremely advantageous opportunities for current nurses earning a higher degree and for nursing students preparing to enter the workforce. Many hospitals are now offering incentive programs such as:

• Recruitment bonuses (ranging anywhere from $2,000 to $20,000)
• Relocation assistance
• Housing assistance
• Day care
• Tuition reimbursement

These recruitment incentives go to nurses who accept a position at their facility and agree to a set work commitment.