Are you a Nurse Practitioner (NP) seeking a new job opportunity or looking to maximize your earnings? This list features some of the highest-paying states and regions across the U.S. for Nurse Practitioners. You might find that it's time for a change!
Top Paying States for NP Practice *
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California
Average Salary: $151,830
California continues to live up to its nickname as "The Golden State" for Nurse Practitioners. NPs in California enjoy an average annual salary of $151,830, significantly higher than the national average NP salary, which currently sits at $124,680, according to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). California also employs more Nurse Practitioners than any other state, with over 17,400 practitioners actively working there in 2024. -
Alaska
Average Salary: $140,730
For Nurse Practitioners who crave outdoor adventure and unique clinical opportunities, Alaska is an appealing option. NPs working in Alaska, especially in remote or independent practice settings, earn an average salary of $140,730 annually. With its rural healthcare challenges, this state offers both excellent compensation and a unique work environment. -
Massachusetts
Average Salary: $137,090
Though small in geographic size, Massachusetts offers top-tier salaries for NPs. Nurse Practitioners in this state make an average of $137,090 annually, making it one of the highest-paying states for NP practice in 2024. The state's robust healthcare system and educational opportunities contribute to these competitive wages. -
New Jersey
Average Salary: $135,750
Known as "The Garden State," New Jersey provides great clinical opportunities and high pay for Nurse Practitioners. In 2024, NPs in New Jersey earn an average salary of $135,750. Its proximity to large metropolitan areas and diverse patient populations makes it an attractive place for NPs to work. -
New York
Average Salary: $134,920
New York is a top employer of Nurse Practitioners, with more than 15,200 NPs working in the state as of 2024. NPs in New York earn an average salary of $134,920, making it one of the highest-paying states for NP practice. The state's bustling urban centers and rural healthcare needs offer a variety of work settings for Nurse Practitioners.
Top Paying Regions for NP Practice
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New Bedford
Average Salary: $170,830
The coastal city of New Bedford tops the list as one of the highest-paying regions for Nurse Practitioners. NPs working in this area take home an average salary of $170,830 annually—over $46,000 more than the national average. -
San Francisco
Average Salary: $166,920
With the high cost of living in the Bay Area, it’s no surprise that NPs in San Francisco earn some of the highest salaries in the nation. On average, Nurse Practitioners here make $166,920 annually, significantly above the national average. -
Spokane
Average Salary: $162,500
Nurse Practitioners working in Spokane, Washington, enjoy an average salary of $162,500, which is about $38,000 more per year than the national NP average. The region offers a mix of urban and rural healthcare settings, contributing to its higher compensation rates. -
Sumter
Average Salary: $159,680
The small city of Sumter may not be a major metropolitan area, but NPs working here earn substantial salaries. On average, NPs in Sumter take home $159,680 annually, which is $35,000 more than their counterparts in other parts of the country. This region offers a low cost of living, making it a hidden gem for Nurse Practitioners.
*Originally posted on 5/26/2020. Last updated on 9/30/2024.
Madison Tarrant - Director of Career Fair Operations. You can stay connected with me on LinkedIn for all of the latest PracticeMatch articles and upcoming events.