How Much Do Nurses Make an Hour?
1. Average Hourly Wages for Registered Nurses
Registered nurses (RNs) are an essential part of the healthcare industry, providing patient care and support to those in need. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median hourly wage for registered nurses in May 2020 was $35.24, which means that half of all RNs earned more than this amount and half earned less.
However, the hourly wage for registered nurses can vary depending on several factors such as education level, experience, and location. For instance, RNs working in metropolitan areas tend to earn more than those working in rural areas. Additionally, those with higher levels of education and specialized certifications often earn higher hourly wages.
Overall, a career as a registered nurse can be financially rewarding, and with a projected growth rate of 7% from 2019 to 2029, the demand for RNs is expected to remain strong.
2. Factors Affecting Hourly Rates for Nurses
Hourly rates for nurses can vary based on several factors, including education level, experience, geographic location, and type of employer. Here are some of the main factors that can impact hourly rates for nurses:
Education level: Nurses with higher levels of education, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), tend to earn higher hourly wages than those with only a diploma or associate degree in nursing.
Experience: Nurses with more years of experience in the field can command higher hourly rates. Experienced nurses may also be eligible for leadership positions, which often come with higher pay.
Geographic location: The cost of living and demand for healthcare services can vary by region, leading to differences in hourly rates for nurses. For example, nurses in metropolitan areas tend to earn higher wages than those in rural areas.
Type of employer: Nurses working for hospitals, government agencies, and larger healthcare organizations may earn higher hourly wages than those working for smaller private practices or long-term care facilities.
Understanding these factors can help nurses make informed decisions about where to work and negotiate fair compensation for their skills and experience.
3. Hourly Pay for Licensed Practical Nurses
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), also known as Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) in some states, provide basic medical care under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors. According to the BLS, the median hourly wage for LPNs/LVNs in May 2020 was $23.24.
Hourly rates for LPNs/LVNs can vary based on several factors, including experience, location, and type of employer. LPNs/LVNs working in hospitals or government agencies may earn higher hourly wages than those working in long-term care facilities or private practices.
While LPNs/LVNs earn less than RNs on average, the educational requirements to become an LPN/LVN are also less rigorous. LPN/LVN programs typically take about one year to complete and require a high school diploma or equivalent. This makes LPN/LVN a viable career option for those who are interested in healthcare but do not want to commit to a longer educational program.
4. Hourly Earnings for Nurse Practitioners
Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who have completed a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing and have additional certification in a specialized area of healthcare. NPs can diagnose and treat patients, prescribe medications, and provide a range of other healthcare services.
According to the BLS, the median hourly wage for NPs in May 2020 was $54.21. Hourly rates for NPs can vary based on several factors, including education level, experience, and geographic location.
NPs with specialized certifications, such as Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) or Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP), may earn higher hourly wages than those without specialized certifications. Additionally, NPs working in certain geographic regions or for specific types of employers, such as hospitals or government agencies, may earn higher hourly wages.
Overall, becoming an NP can be a lucrative career choice for those interested in pursuing advanced practice nursing. With a projected growth rate of 52% from 2019 to 2029, the demand for NPs is expected to remain strong.
5. Hourly Compensation for Travel Nurses
Travel nurses are registered nurses who work on short-term contracts in various healthcare facilities across the country. Because travel nurses fill temporary staffing needs, they often receive higher hourly compensation than their full-time counterparts.
According to the website Travel Nurse Source, the average hourly wage for travel nurses is $43 per hour. However, hourly rates can vary depending on several factors, such as location, specialty, and demand.
Travel nurses may also receive additional benefits and compensation, such as housing allowances, travel stipends, and bonuses. These perks can help offset the costs of travel and make travel nursing a financially attractive career option.
While travel nursing can offer higher hourly compensation and unique opportunities for adventure and exploration, it also requires a certain level of flexibility and adaptability. Travel nurses must be comfortable with frequent moves and adjusting to new healthcare facilities and patient populations.
