Discover RN median hourly pay by state. VisaMadeEZ helps healthcare employers hire international nurses, process EB-3 visas & meet prevailing wage laws
The demand for registered nurses (RNs) in the United States is at an all-time high and salaries reflect this growing need. For healthcare organizations seeking to hire qualified international nurses, understanding RN salary trends is essential for attracting and retaining top talent.
At VisaMadeEZ, we help hospitals and healthcare facilities navigate the immigration process for foreign-trained nurses, and part of that strategy involves ensuring competitive compensation. In this article, we break down median hourly pay for RNs across the U.S., and explain how this data can guide both employers and international nurse candidates.
Why RN Salaries Matter in International Nurse Recruitment
When U.S. healthcare providers hire foreign-educated nurses through an immigration pathway such as an EB-3 visa or H-1B visa salary plays a crucial role. Competitive wages not only meet visa compliance requirements but also help employers stand out in a tight labor market.
RN Median Hourly Pay: A State-by-State Look
Based on the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data, median hourly RN wages vary significantly depending on the state.
Here’s a highlight of the top-paying states for registered nurses:
1. California – $64.10/hour
2. Hawaii – $54.43/hour
3. Oregon – $51.26/hour
4. Massachusetts – $50.88/hour
5. Alaska – $48.98/hour
States such as South Dakota ($31.97/hour) and Mississippi ($32.19/hour) rank on the lower end of the pay scale, but often offer lower living costs and attractive relocation support programs for international hires.
Cost of Living vs. Salary for International Nurses
While states like California and Hawaii offer the highest hourly pay for RNs, international nurses should also consider housing costs, state taxes, and overall living expenses. For example:
- California: Highest hourly rate, but higher rent and housing costs.
- Texas: Strong job market, competitive pay, and lower living expenses.
- Florida: No state income tax and year-round warm weather.
At VisaMadeEZ, we help employers and candidates evaluate both salary and quality of life factors when making job placements.
Visa Considerations for International Nurses
When hiring nurses from abroad, salary offers must meet the prevailing wage requirements set by the Department of Labor for the EB-3 green card process. That’s why understanding average RN pay by state is not only a recruitment strategy it’s also a compliance necessity.
We guide healthcare organizations through every step:
- Prevailing Wage Determination
- EB-3 Visa Processing
- Green Card Application for Nurses
- Credential Verification (CGFNS)
- NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation Support
The Takeaway for Employers & Nurses
For healthcare organizations in urgent need of staff, knowing the median RN hourly pay by state is a powerful tool for creating competitive job offers. For international nurses, this information helps in making informed decisions about job location, cost of living, and career advancement opportunities in the U.S.
Pro tip for employers: Offering relocation assistance, signing bonuses, and flexible schedules can be just as appealing as a high hourly wage especially for international nurses transitioning to life in the U.S.
Ready to hire skilled international nurses or begin your U.S. nursing career?
At VisaMadeEZ, we specialize in helping healthcare employers navigate the immigration process for nurses and ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration and labor laws.
Contact us today to discuss how we can help you hire globally, comply locally, and grow your healthcare workforce.
