Registered nurses (RNs) are highly sought-after healthcare workers in the state of New York. Both in top-notch trauma centers in the nation’s largest city and in small rural hospitals. With an average registered nurse wage of $85,610, New York has a significantly higher wage than the rest of the country.
In New York State, the occupation is predicted to increase dramatically due to the state’s growing population. Particularly in areas like New York City, Buffalo, and Rochester.
How Many Registered Nurses are Currently Employed in NY?
The registered nursing profession is growing at a faster-than-average rate of 7%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In the state of New York, there are roughly 247,340 registered nurses. There are around 10,370 in New York City. This varies from year to year, but it is a very consistent figure. This is one of the fastest-growing professions in the country, and it will most likely continue to develop at a rapid pace.
What is the Salary of an RN in New York?
– Starting Salary
In New York, you can expect a starting RN income of around $61,375 per year. This is roughly $29.51 per hour, after graduating from nursing school and landing your first job. Although this is less than the national average for registered nurses, it is a substantial sum for a newly graduated RN.
| Type | Average Salary |
| Hourly | $29.51 |
| Monthly | $5,115 |
| Annual | $61,375 |
– Average Salary
Regardless of employment experience or other considerations, an RN’s average annual income in New York is $85,610. This is far over the national average, making New York one of the most competitive states in the country for registered nurses.
| Type | Average Salary |
| Hourly | $41.16 |
| Monthly | $7,134 |
| Annual | $85,610 |
– Estimated Total Annual Compensation (Salary + Benefits)
When it comes to RN compensation in New York, it’s essential to recognize more than your salary. You’ll also get several of the benefits worth around $39,680 per year.
In New York, salaries are aimed at being competitive with market rates. Nurse salaries are determined by job requirements, as well as an employee’s education, experience, and location of employment. Market conditions may determine compensation increases. For jobs assigned to evening and night shifts, some locations may offer shift pay differentials.
| Component | Amount |
| Paid Leave | $9,763 |
| Supplemental Pay | $4,255 |
| Insurance | $10,764 |
| Retirement and Savings | $4,881 |
| Legally Required | $10,013 |
| Total Benefits | $39,680 |
| Average Annual Salary | $85,610 |
| Total Compensation | $125,290 |
Percentile Wage Estimates for all RNs in NY and Factors that Influence Them
The typical registered nurse in New York earns between $67,300 and $101,440 a year, depending on their experience, region, and even specialty. If you work in a large metro location like NYC or Buffalo, your registered nursing salary in New York will be substantially more than if you work in a more rural setting.
A small number (10%) of registered nurses (RNs) earn less than $55,450 per year, and these RNs are most frequently recent graduates who work in nursing homes or other low-stress settings. On the other side, 10% of all RNs in New York earn more than $120,890 per year, and they typically have the most experience working in high-stress areas, such as supervisory, managerial, or research roles.
| Percent of RN’s | Number of RN’s | Annual Salary |
| 10% | 18,249 | Under $55,450 |
| 15% | 27,374 | $55,450 – $67,300 |
| 25% | 45,623 | $67,300 – $85,300 |
| 25% | 45,623 | $85,300 – $101,440 |
| 15% | 27,374 | $101,440 – $120,890 |
| 10% | 18,249 | Above $120,890 |
Salary Trend (2013-2018)
Over the last five years, RN salaries have steadily risen in New York. In any given year between 2013 and 2018, the salary increased by 2.17 percent to 3.24 percent. Nursing shortages in New York and the efforts of employers to attract new employees are driving this trend. As a direct result of this commitment, the salaries of registered nurses in the state have increased by 11 percent in just five years.
Salary Projection (2018-2023)
There is a predicted increase in New York RN salaries in the range of 1.69 percent to 3.46 percent between 2018 and 2023, with increases ranging from 1.69 percent to 3.46 percent in any given year. The salary increase is predicted to be 13.67 percent during the next five years, which is in line with the previous five years’ rise.
In an effort to alleviate its nursing shortage, the state is working to provide its citizens with trained healthcare professionals. This will create higher salaries. Salaries may also rise slightly to accommodate for the state’s rising cost of living.
Who Earns More in New York: BSN vs ADN Degree Holders?
An ADN-educated registered nurse in New York makes approximately $83,260 per year while a BSN-educated registered nurse makes approximately $90,000 per year. This represents a savings of $7,350 per year. As a result of taking on more responsibility, nurses with baccalaureate degrees generate a higher salary across the state.
In the same setting as BSN nurses, associate degree registered (ADN) nurses can work, though their functions may differ. In addition to evaluating health conditions, taking health histories, administering medications, and performing or assisting with tests, associate degree RNs commonly support physicians with examinations and treatments. They could also specialize in fields like pediatrics, geriatrics, or women’s health.
In addition to performing many of the same tasks as ADN nurses, BSN nurses are also trained to take on more complex responsibilities. In addition to nursing administration, BSNs can specialize in fields such as nursing research, case management, and nursing education.
| ADN | BSN | How Much More Does an RN with BSN Earn |
| $83,260 | $7,350 | $90,610 |
A comparison of New York RNs and National RNs
The annual wage for registered nurses in New York is also significantly greater than the national average. The national average RN income is $75,510 per year, which is $10,100 less than the $85,610 per year in New York State.
Salary of RNs in NY compared to other occupations
RN Salary vs All Nursing Occupations in NY
– Nursing Assistant
A Certified Nursing Assistant in New York earns an average of $37,010, and their normal income ranges from $36,250 to $43,921. In comparison, licensed nursing assistants earn an average salary of $28,738 nationwide.
– Licensed Practical Nurse
In New York, the average income for a licensed practical nurse is $48,770. While earning as much as $66,908 and as little as $30,712 is possible.
– RN
The average Registered Nurse, Level 1 salary in New York is $69,200, with a range of $62,080 to $79,110.
The typical salary for a Registered Nurse, Level 2 in New York is $74,430 to $91,260.
In New York, the average income for a Registered Nurse, Level 3 is $109,200, with a salary range of $96,600 to $124,800.
– Nursing Instructor
Nursing Instructor salaries typically range from $84,798 to $154,463, with a base salary of $105,267.
– Nurse Midwife
Certified Nursing Midwife salaries typically range between $125,387 and $154,522 in New York.
– Nurse Practitioner
In New York, the average Nurse Practitioner salary is $135,540, but the salary range typically ranges from $125,771 to $147,241.
– Nurse Anesthetist
Certified Nurse Anesthetist salaries in New York typically range from $211,234 to $250,737, with the average salary falling between those figures.
Nursing Salary vs. Similar Healthcare Careers in NY
Where does an RN fall on the pay scale when comparing other healthcare careers?
- Medical Assistant – $44,415
- Emergency Medical & Paramedic – $35,648
- Cardiovascular Technologist and Technician-$63,180
- Dental Hygienist – $77,210
- Diagnostic medical Sonographer -$78,830
- RN-$89,760
- Social Worker -$87,536
- Occupational Therapist-$79,917
- Physician Assistant -$132,953
Nurse Employment & Pay in NY’s Healthcare Facilities
A nurse’s compensation in New York is affected by the facility where they work. Hospitals employ more nurses in New York than all other types of facilities combined, and their average yearly salary is $88,130. A typical salary at an outpatient care center is $89,830, but there are fewer nurses in these facilities than in other facilities. Compared to outpatient facilities, hospitals have more responsibilities and more irregular hours.
| Industry | Employment | Hourly Salary | Annual Salary |
| Hospitals | 105,010 | $42.37 | $88,130 |
| Physician’s Offices | 12,230 | $36.95 | $76,860 |
| Home Health Care | 11,200 | $39.16 | $81,460 |
| Nursing Care Facilities | 9,470 | $36.73 | $76,380 |
| Outpatient Care Centers | 8,770 | $43.19 | $89,830 |
Registered Nurse Salary in 10 Major Cities of New York
1. New York
Not only does New York City have some of the best hospitals in the nation, but the entire state is no exception. RNs in New York City make an average of $91,160 per year. NYC Health + Hospitals, Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital, and New York-Presbyterian Medical Center all employ a large number of registered nurses in the area.
The high volume of patients that move into and out of these facilities every hour of the day makes this one of the highest-paying cities in the country for nurses.
2. Buffalo
Buffalo is also an excellent choice for RNs seeking to work in New York. Some of the largest employers in the area include Neighborhood Health Center, Mercy Hospital of Buffalo, and Sisters of Charity Hospital. Buffalo has a higher number of elderly residents than other parts of the state, meaning that many registered nurses work in long-term care facilities in the city.
If you opt to work in Buffalo, you can expect to earn an average salary of $74,790 per year.
3. Rochester
Rochester is one of the best places to live and work in New York. The University of Rochester Medicine is located there, as is the Golisano Children’s Hospital, which is one of the best in the region. Many job openings are available at Highland Hospital and Strong Memorial Hospital.
Nursing professionals in Rochester earn an average yearly salary of $65,800, which is lower than the state average. However, it is crucial to remember that the cost of living in Rochester is quite low, especially for food and local taxes.
4. Syracuse
Nurses in Syracuse, New York make an average salary of $67,170 per year, depending on their job and work environment. Upstate University Hospital, the Syracuse VA Medical Center, and the Golisano Children’s Hospital are the three largest employers of registered nurses in the area.
Throughout Syracuse, there are several clinics, urgent care centers, doctors’ offices, and long-term care facilities. However, these tend to charge slightly less than the hospitals indicated above.
5. Albany
The capital of New York is also home to one of the busiest VA hospitals in all of New York, the VA Healthcare Network Upstate, which is home to the state’s government buildings. Albany Memorial Hospital, Albany Children’s Hospital, and Samaritan Hospital are all important RN employers.
The Whitney Young Health Center and long-term care facilities, like nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities, employ RNs. You can expect to make an average annual salary of $69,800 if you choose to work in Albany.
6. Cheektowaga
Registered nurses have plenty of job opportunities in Cheektowaga, although it is not as populous as some of the other cities on this list. Several hospitals, including St. Joseph and Sisters of Charity hospitals, as well as clinics and outpatient facilities such as Lancaster Medical Center, are among the largest employers in the area. Garden Gate, Elderwood, and Glenwell are all popular places to work. RNs in Cheektowaga earn an average of $74,790 per year.
7. Schenectady
A little over 67,972 people live in Schenectady, New York, home to both Ellis and Bellevue Hospitals. They employ the largest number of registered nurses in the city. Several registered nurses work at Ellis Internal Medicine, an outpatient clinic. You could work at the Schenectady Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing or the Kingsway Arms Nursing Center, in addition to these facilities. RNs in Schenectady earn an average of $69,800 a year on average.
8. Utica
The Mohawk Valley Health System’s hospitals, including the St. Luke’s and St. Elizabeth campuses, employ the most registered nurses in Utica. These hospitals serve a population of just over 60,000 people. Long-term care facilities in Utica, such as Focus Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Utica Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, and the Pines at Utica, employ RNs.
The average yearly wage in this field is $67,700, while many of the most affluent nursing facilities pay more.
9. Troy
Despite its small size, Troy, New York has two hospitals that employ dozens of registered nurses: Samaritan Hospital and St. Mary’s Hospital. Some RNs also work for Seton Health Pediatrics, a children’s specialty hospital, and nursing facilities such as Eddy Heritage House, Troy Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing, and Eddy Memorial Geriatric Center. RNs in Troy make an average of $69,800 per year.
10. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls has a population of only about 48,000 people. It’s one of the most famous tourist attractions in the United States because of its namesake cascade, which means there are multiple local hospitals to care for sick or injured visitors. The most prominent hospital in the area, Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center, employs more registered nurses than any other.
But The Heart Center of Niagara and Catholic Health are close behind. Some RNs work in assisted living communities such as the Allstate Home of Niagara, while others work in nursing homes such as Niagara Rehabilitation-Nursing. Working in Niagara Falls can pay you an average annual salary of $74,790.
What are the best paying cities for registered nurses in New York?
With over 60 acute care hospitals, New York City is the most densely populated city in the country and most RNs in the state work there. It is also home to some of the greatest research hospitals in the country, making work opportunities plentiful. As a result, RNs working in New York City earn an average yearly pay of $91,160.
Employment Trend (2013-2018)
RN Job Outlook in New York (2018-2023)
RN employment in New York is predicted to grow at a steady rate of 1.48 percent to 1.59 percent per year between 2018 and 2023, for a total five-year growth of 7.91 percent. Because of the state’s nursing shortage, companies will be motivated to recruit more trained registered nurses.
The cost of living in New York is greater than the rest of the country and comparable to California, businesses must give competitive compensation to recruit RNs, in high-stress workplaces.
Projected Annual RN Job Openings (New + Replacement) in New York
Which New York Metro Areas are Hiring the Highest Number of RNs?
In New York, as in most other states, RNs will have the most job chances if they look for work in busy urban areas. More facilities must be available in places where the population density is the highest. There are 1,76,780 registered nurses in New York City.
RNs can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, doctor’s offices, clinics, home health agencies, schools, prisons, community health departments, Planned Parenthood and comparable facilities, free clinics, and other places that serve a large, diverse, and dense population.
New York City has a greater number of registered nurses than all other major cities combined, a testament to how many medical facilities the city has. In terms of employment, Rochester comes in second with 12,240 RNs working in the city, and this is followed by Buffalo, Cheektowaga, and Niagara Falls Metro with 11,950 RNs combined.
| Rank | Metro Area | # Employed |
| 1 | New York | 1,76,780 |
| 2 | Rochester | 12,240 |
| 3 | Buffalo-Cheektowaga-Niagara Falls | 11,950 |
| 4 | Albany-Schenectady-Troy | 10,840 |
| 5 | Syracuse | 5,980 |
| 6 | Utica-Rome | 3,020 |
| 7 | Binghamton | 2,700 |
| 8 | Kingston | 1,230 |
| 9 | Elmira | 1,060 |
| 10 | Ithaca | 940 |
| 11 | Watertown-Fort Drum | 910 |
Conclusion
Registered nurses (RNs) are in high demand in New York, both in top-tier trauma centers and tiny rural hospitals. New York pays much more than the rest of the country for registered nurses, with an average salary of $85,610. Because of the state’s rising population, the occupation is expected to rise rapidly in New York State, particularly in cities like New York City, Buffalo, and Rochester.
As we can see, the trends climbed by 2% to over 3% between 2013 and 2018. There was a nursing shortage during this time. As a result, the state raised the pay rate. From 2018 through 2023, incomes and job opportunities are predicted to rise.
Recommended Reading – LPN vs RN Career Highlights & Differences
Written by Sara Rembert
Sara has a background in health care and case management, working for several years as a home help aid. Having always loved writing, but unsure of how to put her expertise to use, she brought together these two passions by becoming a freelance writer, specializing in medical and nursing writing.
