Position
Salary

How much does a Graduate Nurse make?

The average salary for a Graduate Nurse is $83,001 per year in the US.

Graduate nurses start their careers with a solid base salary. This entry-level position often offers a yearly income around $35,000 to $45,000. Most graduate nurses earn between these amounts, depending on their specific role and location. As they gain experience, their salary potential increases. With each year of practice, a graduate nurse can expect to see a rise in their earnings. This progression is common as they become more skilled and knowledgeable.

After a few years, a graduate nurse’s salary can grow to the mid-range, typically from $55,000 to $75,000 annually. Nurses who excel in their field and seek more responsibility can earn even higher salaries. For example, those with advanced certifications or leadership roles may earn between $85,000 and $120,000 per year. This upward trend continues as they gain more experience and specialize in various areas of nursing. A graduate nurse’s salary offers a rewarding path with many opportunities for growth and advancement.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Graduate Nurse?

Graduate nurses often find higher pay in certain cities. Sacramento, California, leads the way with the highest average salary. Following closely are Stockton, California, and Fargo, North Dakota, offering competitive salaries as well. For those looking to maximize earnings, these cities provide excellent opportunities. Boston, Massachusetts, Riverside, California, and Des Moines, Iowa, also rank well. These locations ensure nurses enjoy attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Graduate Nurse jobs, highlighting Sacramento, CA with the highest at $152,388 and Wichita, KS with the lowest at $112,894.
  1. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $152,388
    Working as a nurse in Sacramento offers dynamic opportunities in top medical facilities. Capital Region hospitals, like UC Davis Medical Center, provide excellent training and career growth. Enjoy the city’s vibrant culture and a supportive work environment.
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  2. Stockton, CA
    Average Salary: $141,601
    Stockton has a strong demand for nurses in its well-equipped healthcare institutions. Working here, you will find support from the skilled staff at Adventist Health and St. Joseph’s Medical Center. The city’s friendly atmosphere and scenic views make it an enjoyable place to live and work.
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  3. Fargo, ND
    Average Salary: $140,967
    In Fargo, nurses have the chance to work in renowned facilities like Sanford Health. The city provides a slower pace of life and friendly community, making it an ideal place for professional development and personal well-being. Enjoy the outdoor activities and family-friendly environment.
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  4. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $129,090
    Boston offers a vibrant environment for nursing careers with its prestigious hospitals like Massachusetts General Hospital. The city’s rich history and educational opportunities provide an enriching experience. Enjoy a bustling city life and diverse cultural scene.
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  5. Riverside, CA
    Average Salary: $128,100
    Riverside provides a perfect balance of urban amenities and a relaxed lifestyle. Nurses can find excellent opportunities at Kaiser Permanente and Riverside University Health System. The city’s beautiful parks and family-friendly activities make it a great place to live.
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  6. Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $127,885
    Des Moines offers a supportive work environment with prominent healthcare providers like MercyOne and UnityPoint Health. The city’s friendly community and lower cost of living make it an attractive place for nurses. Enjoy a mix of urban and suburban living with plenty of outdoor activities.
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  7. Peoria, IL
    Average Salary: $122,765
    Peoria provides a nurturing environment with top hospitals like OSF St. Francis Medical Center. The city’s family-oriented community and affordable living costs make it a great place for nursing careers. Enjoy a variety of recreational activities and a strong sense of community.
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  8. Memphis, TN
    Average Salary: $119,117
    Memphis offers a vibrant work environment with top facilities like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The city’s rich cultural scene and affordable living make it a compelling choice. Enjoy the lively music scene and historic landmarks.
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  9. Oklahoma City, OK
    Average Salary: $116,007
    Oklahoma City provides diverse opportunities with hospitals like OU Medical Center. The city’s growing economy and welcoming community make it an excellent place for nursing careers. Enjoy a range of outdoor activities and a vibrant arts scene.
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  10. Wichita, KS
    Average Salary: $112,894
    Wichita offers a supportive work environment with facilities like Wesley Medical Center. The city’s affordable living and friendly community make it an attractive place for nurses. Enjoy a mix of urban and suburban lifestyles with plenty of outdoor activities.
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What are the best companies a Graduate Nurse can work for?

Mass General Brigham and Beth Israel Lahey Health offer top-tier pay for graduate nurses, with average salaries of $138,233 and $116,695, respectively. GHR Healthcare also provides competitive compensation at $116,584 annually. These institutions value their nursing staff and recognize the importance of fair wages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Graduate Nurse jobs, highlighting Mass General Brigham with the highest at $138,233 and Trinity Health with the lowest at $85,799.
  1. Mass General Brigham
    Average Salary: $138,233
    Mass General Brigham offers exciting opportunities for Graduate Nurses. They operate in several locations across Massachusetts, including Boston and its suburbs. Graduate Nurses here will find comprehensive training and growth opportunities.


  2. Beth Israel Lahey Health
    Average Salary: $116,695
    Beth Israel Lahey Health provides a supportive environment for Graduate Nurses. They have facilities in eastern Massachusetts, offering various specialties. This company values the professional development of its nurses.


  3. GHR Healthcare
    Average Salary: $116,584
    At GHR Healthcare, Graduate Nurses can expect competitive salaries and a nurturing work environment. They operate in multiple states across the U.S., offering diverse healthcare settings.


  4. swipejobs
    Average Salary: $112,040
    swipejobs connects Graduate Nurses with various healthcare facilities. They have a nationwide reach, providing flexibility and a wide range of opportunities for those just starting their careers.


  5. NTG (Nationwide Therapy)
    Average Salary: $105,482
    NTG offers Graduate Nurses the chance to work in different healthcare settings. They operate across the U.S., providing diverse experiences and opportunities for professional growth.


  6. Titan Medical (Nebraska)
    Average Salary: $98,089
    Titan Medical provides a supportive environment for Graduate Nurses in Nebraska. They focus on creating a positive workplace that fosters professional development and skill enhancement.


  7. Holy Cross Health
    Average Salary: $94,835
    Holy Cross Health offers comprehensive training for Graduate Nurses. They operate in Florida and the Mid-Atlantic region, providing opportunities in various healthcare settings.


  8. Arnot Health
    Average Salary: $89,264
    Arnot Health provides Graduate Nurses with a supportive environment in upstate New York. They offer competitive salaries and opportunities for professional growth in various specialties.


  9. Rochester Regional Health
    Average Salary: $89,188
    Rochester Regional Health offers a variety of opportunities for Graduate Nurses in New York. They focus on providing quality patient care and professional development.


  10. Trinity Health
    Average Salary: $85,799
    Trinity Health offers Graduate Nurses competitive salaries and growth opportunities. They operate in multiple states, providing a range of healthcare settings to work in.

How to earn more as a Graduate Nurse?

Becoming a Graduate Nurse offers many opportunities to grow and earn more over time. By focusing on specific areas, a Graduate Nurse can increase their salary and job satisfaction. Setting clear goals and taking actionable steps can lead to higher earnings and a more fulfilling career.

Below are some key factors to consider for increasing earnings as a Graduate Nurse:

  • Specialization: Choosing a specialty can lead to higher pay. Specialties like pediatrics or anesthesia often offer better salaries.
  • Advanced Degrees: Earning a master's or doctoral degree can lead to more advanced roles and higher pay.
  • Certifications: Additional certifications in areas like critical care or trauma can increase earning potential.
  • Experience: Gaining more experience and skills in the field often leads to higher pay and better job opportunities.
  • Networking: Building a strong professional network can lead to more job opportunities and higher salaries.

Currently 430 Graduate Nurse job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Graduate Nurse in the US?

Learn what a Graduate Nurse does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Graduate Nurse today.
Position
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Graduate Nurse
430 Job Openings