What is the average starting salary for an RN?

The average starting salary for a Registered Nurse (RN) in the United States is approximately $68,410 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2021 National Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates. However, this figure can vary widely depending on factors such as location, experience, specialty, and employer. For example, RNs in California typically earn higher salaries than those in Mississippi. RNs with more years of experience also tend to earn higher salaries than those who are just starting out. Certain nursing specialties, such as critical care nursing and nurse anesthesia, are associated with higher salaries compared to general nursing positions. Additionally, RNs employed by hospitals and healthcare systems may earn different salaries compared to those working in other settings such as clinics, long-term care facilities, or private practices.