21 Nursing Careers with High Salaries in 2025: Top Jobs That Pay Big
Exploring nursing careers with high salaries in the United States reveals more than just impressive paychecks—it unveils exciting opportunities for career advancement, clinical expertise, and long-term job growth. Whether you’re a bedside nurse looking to specialize or an aspiring nurse leader, pursuing a high-paying nursing path can lead to both personal and financial fulfillment.
In 2025, many of the highest-paying nursing careers belong to professionals who have invested in advanced education, certifications, or niche skills. From direct patient care to informatics, anesthesiology to administration, nurses with specialized knowledge are earning six-figure incomes and enjoying expanded responsibilities in a rapidly evolving healthcare system.
This comprehensive guide first sets the stage with the average salary of a Registered Nurse (RN) to provide context. Then, we explore 21 top nursing careers with high salaries, breaking down job roles, income potential, required education, and future outlook.
Average Registered Nurse (RN) Salary in 2025
Before diving into the top-paying roles, it’s helpful to understand the earning baseline for most U.S. nurses.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Annual RN Salary (2024) | $93,600 |
| National Average Salary | $98,430 |
| Salary Range (10th–90th Percentile) | $66,030 – $135,320 |
| Projected Job Growth (2023–2033) | 6% (Faster than average) |
The average RN salary reflects a broad spectrum, influenced by experience level, location, and work setting. Entry-level RNs may start around $66,000, while top earners—especially those in metropolitan or high-demand regions—can exceed $135,000 annually.
As demand for healthcare services continues to grow, registered nursing remains a stable and rewarding foundation, with opportunities for financial growth through overtime, night shifts, and career advancement.
1. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) — $212,000
At the top of the list of nursing careers with high salaries is the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). These advanced practice nurses are responsible for administering anesthesia and monitoring patients during surgical procedures. CRNAs work in high-stakes environments such as operating rooms, surgical centers, and critical care units, often collaborating with surgeons and anesthesiologists—or practicing independently in rural and underserved areas.
To become a CRNA, nurses must complete a doctoral-level degree in nurse anesthesia and obtain national certification. The path requires significant dedication but offers a major return on investment.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook (2023–2033) |
|---|---|---|
| $185,000 – $220,000+ | 7–8 years | 38% growth |
With a median salary of $212,650, CRNAs earn more than any other nursing role, making this one of the most financially rewarding nursing careers in 2025. As demand for anesthesia services continues to grow, so do opportunities in this field, especially for CRNAs willing to work in high-need regions.
2. General Nurse Practitioner (NP) — $129,000
Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are versatile and in-demand healthcare providers who diagnose conditions, manage chronic illnesses, prescribe medications, and deliver preventive care. As primary care providers in many settings, NPs play a critical role in improving healthcare access—especially in underserved communities.
To qualify as an NP, nurses typically complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), followed by national board certification.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook (2023–2033) |
|---|---|---|
| $98,000 – $170,000 | 6–8 years | 45% growth |
With a median annual salary of $129,210, this role ranks high among nursing careers with high salaries. The job outlook is exceptionally strong, with a projected 45% growth rate—making it one of the fastest-growing occupations in healthcare today.
3. Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) — $134,000
Mental health is a rising priority in modern healthcare, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) are stepping in to fill the gap. These specialized nurse practitioners assess, diagnose, and treat psychiatric conditions, often providing counseling and prescribing psychotropic medications.
PMHNPs typically earn a master’s or doctoral degree with a psychiatric concentration and must obtain board certification in mental health nursing.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook (2023–2033) |
|---|---|---|
| $100,000 – $150,000+ | 6–8 years | 45% growth |
With an average salary of $134,000, PMHNPs rank among the top nursing careers with high salaries in 2025. The demand for qualified mental health providers is surging, especially in telehealth, private practice, and community health clinics—making this a rewarding and fast-growing specialty.
4. Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner — $139,000
Among the most rapidly growing nursing careers with high salaries, the Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner offers a unique blend of clinical skills and cosmetic artistry. These NPs provide minimally invasive procedures such as Botox, dermal fillers, laser treatments, and skin rejuvenation therapies—helping clients enhance their appearance and confidence.
To enter this field, nurses must earn their NP credentials (usually a master’s degree) and pursue specialized training or certification in medical aesthetics.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook (Est.) |
|---|---|---|
| $100,000 – $180,000 | 6–7 years | 6%–8% (Est.) |
With an average salary of $139,000, aesthetic NPs benefit from the booming demand for elective cosmetic procedures. Professionals in luxury markets or private clinics can earn well over $150,000 with bonuses. These high-paying roles are typically found in dermatology practices, medical spas, and plastic surgery centers.
5. Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) — $129,000
Another standout in the list of nursing careers with high salaries is the Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM). CNMs provide holistic maternity care, from prenatal checkups and labor support to postpartum recovery and family planning. They also offer general gynecological services for women across the lifespan.
To become a CNM, nurses must earn a Master’s or Doctorate in Nurse Midwifery and pass a national certification exam.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook (2023–2033) |
|---|---|---|
| $80,000 – $180,000 | 6–8 years | 40% growth |
With a median annual salary of $129,000, CNMs are well-compensated for their expertise. Salaries vary by region, with top earners in urban or high-demand areas making $180,000+. Demand is strong, especially as more women seek midwifery-led care that’s both safe and personal.
6. Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) — $120,000
For nurses interested in advanced clinical leadership, the Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) role is one of the most strategic nursing careers with high salaries. CNSs serve as expert consultants within healthcare teams, guiding evidence-based practice, improving patient outcomes, and mentoring nursing staff.
This role requires a Master’s or Doctoral degree in a specialty area (such as critical care, oncology, or pediatrics) along with national certification.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook (2023–2033) |
|---|---|---|
| $85,000 – $150,000 | 6–8 years | 40% growth (APRNs overall) |
CNSs earn an average salary between $113,000 and $125,000, depending on experience and specialty. As hospitals emphasize quality improvement and evidence-based care, demand for CNSs continues to grow. These roles are commonly found in hospitals, academic institutions, and healthcare systems.
7. Nurse Manager & Nurse Administrator — $123,000
If you’re looking to climb the leadership ladder, becoming a Nurse Manager or Nurse Administrator is a rewarding path among nursing careers with high salaries. These professionals manage nursing teams, oversee departmental budgets, implement policies, and ensure top-quality patient care across units or entire organizations.
A BSN is usually the minimum requirement, but many in these roles also hold an MSN or MBA in healthcare administration.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook (2023–2033) |
|---|---|---|
| $64,000 – $200,000+ | 4–6 years | 29% growth |
Nurse administrators earn $120,000–$130,000 on average, with senior executives like Chief Nursing Officers making well over $200,000 in large systems. As healthcare grows more complex, skilled nurse leaders are in high demand to ensure operational efficiency and staff satisfaction.
8. Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Nurse — $130,000
Among clinical bedside roles, the NICU Nurse stands out in nursing careers with high salaries. These RNs care for premature and critically ill newborns in neonatal intensive care units, operating life-saving equipment and providing emotional support to families during stressful times.
NICU nurses typically hold a BSN and certifications such as Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP).
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook (2023–2033) |
|---|---|---|
| $80,000 – $140,000 | 4–5 years | 6% growth (RN overall) |
NICU nurses can earn up to $130,000, especially in high-demand regions or as travel nurses. Their expertise is essential as neonatal care advances and survival rates improve, ensuring ongoing demand for highly skilled neonatal RNs in hospitals and pediatric facilities.
9. Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurse — $118,000
Among the most demanding nursing careers with high salaries, ICU Nurses are critical to the survival of patients facing life-threatening conditions. They provide round-the-clock care in intensive care units, manage ventilators, titrate potent IV medications, and respond to emergencies like cardiac arrests and rapid deteriorations.
ICU nurses typically hold a BSN and many pursue the Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) certification to enhance their credentials.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook (2023–2033) |
|---|---|---|
| $75,000 – $130,000 | 4 years | 6% growth (RN overall) |
The average salary for ICU nurses is approximately $118,000, particularly for those working night shifts, in urban trauma centers, or as travel nurses. As the population ages and chronic illnesses increase, the need for critical care nurses continues to grow. ICU nurses are essential in hospital intensive care units, delivering highly focused care to the most vulnerable patients.
10. Travel Nurse — $110,000
Travel Nursing offers one of the most flexible and lucrative paths among nursing careers with high salaries. These nurses accept short-term assignments (typically 8–13 weeks) across the country, filling urgent staffing gaps in high-demand areas such as ICU, ER, or Labor & Delivery.
Most travel nurses have at least 1–2 years of experience and a strong clinical background.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| $80,000 – $130,000+ | 4 years | High demand (varies by region) |
Travel nurses can earn up to $110,000 annually on average, with some reaching $130,000+ depending on specialty and number of contracts. In addition to competitive pay, travel nurses receive housing stipends, tax-free allowances, and bonuses. This dynamic role suits those who crave both adventure and financial rewards while gaining experience in diverse clinical settings.
11. Pain Management Nurse — $122,000
A specialized and increasingly vital role in nursing careers with high salaries, Pain Management Nurses focus on alleviating suffering in patients with acute or chronic pain. They assess pain levels, administer medications like opioids or epidurals, operate PCA pumps, and coordinate interdisciplinary care plans involving physical therapy, behavioral therapy, or nerve blocks.
Most work in surgical units, rehabilitation centers, or palliative care settings, often with additional certification in pain management.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook (2023–2033) |
|---|---|---|
| $80,000 – $130,000 | 4 years | 6% growth (RN overall) |
With an average income of $122,000, pain management nurses are in steady demand, especially as healthcare shifts toward non-opioid and multi-modal pain control strategies. Their compassionate care directly improves patients’ quality of life during difficult health journeys.
12. Nursing Informatics Specialist — $95,000
Tech-savvy professionals seeking nursing careers with high salaries can thrive as Nursing Informatics Specialists. These nurses bridge the gap between clinical practice and health information systems, optimizing electronic health records (EHRs), analyzing data to improve outcomes, and supporting technology rollouts in hospitals and clinics.
Typically, these nurses hold a BSN and go on to earn a Master’s degree in Nursing Informatics or Health IT.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| $72,000 – $118,000 | 4–6 years | Informatics demand growing |
The median salary is about $95,000, but experienced informatics nurses can earn $117,000+, especially in large healthcare systems. As digital transformation accelerates across healthcare, informatics specialists will remain crucial to safe, efficient, and patient-centered care delivery. /nclex-first-attempt-study-plan
13. Flight Nurse — $95,000
High-stakes and adrenaline-fueled, Flight Nursing is one of the most adventurous nursing careers with high salaries. Flight nurses provide emergency care mid-transport via helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft. They stabilize trauma victims, manage ventilators, administer critical medications, and monitor vital signs while airborne.
Candidates need strong ICU or ER experience, plus specialized training in flight physiology and pre-hospital care.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook (2023–2033) |
|---|---|---|
| $75,000 – $110,000 | 4–5 years | 6% growth (RN overall) |
Flight nurses earn around $95,000 annually, with pay reaching $110,000 in certain medevac roles or regions. These elite nurses work for air ambulance services, trauma centers, and the military—responding to emergencies in both urban and remote locations.
14. Research Nurse (Nurse Researcher) — $97,000
For those passionate about evidence-based care, Research Nurses play a crucial role in bridging clinical practice and scientific discovery. As part of the growing landscape of nursing careers with high salaries, research nurses coordinate clinical studies, monitor patient outcomes, collect data, and ensure research integrity by adhering to strict protocols and ethical standards.https://www.nursingworld.org
Many research nurses hold advanced degrees (MSN or PhD), especially if they’re designing or leading studies in academic or pharmaceutical settings.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| $70,000 – $120,000 | 4–6 years (BSN + MSN/PhD) | Growing with medical research |
The average salary for research nurses hovers around $97,000, with the potential to reach $120,000+ for those in senior positions or clinical trials within biotech and pharmaceutical companies. These nurses work in hospitals, academic research centers, government agencies, and public health institutions, contributing directly to medical advancement.
15. Legal Nurse Consultant (LNC) — $90,000
Legal Nurse Consultants combine clinical expertise with legal insight, making this a unique and lucrative path among nursing careers with high salaries. LNCs assist attorneys by reviewing medical records, analyzing case merits, interpreting healthcare standards, and even serving as expert witnesses in court.
While no additional degree is strictly required, many LNCs pursue specialized training and certification in legal nurse consulting.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| $70,000 – $150,000 | 4 years (BSN helpful) | Steady demand in legal services |
LNCs typically earn around $90,000, though top consultants or those in private practice can make $150,000+ depending on caseload and hourly rates. As healthcare-related litigation increases, LNCs find opportunities in law firms, insurance companies, government agencies, or as independent consultants, using their clinical background to inform complex legal decisions.
16. Nurse Recruiter — $91,000
Helping to shape the future workforce, Nurse Recruiters specialize in sourcing, interviewing, and placing qualified nurses across healthcare settings. Often coming from clinical nursing backgrounds, they bring insider understanding to hiring practices, making this one of the more corporate but rewarding nursing careers with high salaries.
While a clinical license isn’t always mandatory, having a BSN and bedside experience is highly advantageous.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| $60,000 – $120,000 | 4 years (BSN preferred) | High demand due to nursing shortages |
Nurse recruiters earn an average of $91,000, with potential to reach $120,000+ in large hospital systems or staffing agencies. Performance incentives and hiring bonuses can further boost earnings. These professionals work in hospitals, recruitment firms, or remotely, playing a strategic role in solving the ongoing nursing shortage crisis.
17. Nurse Educator — $86,000
Shaping the next generation of nurses, Nurse Educators occupy a vital space in healthcare. This rewarding path within nursing careers with high salaries involves teaching in nursing schools, developing educational content, and supervising clinical rotations.
Most educators hold an MSN or Doctorate and teach at colleges, universities, or work as hospital-based clinical instructors.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| $70,000 – $120,000 | 6–8 years (MSN/PhD) | High demand in nursing academia |
The median salary is around $86,000, with opportunities to earn more in tenured academic positions or leadership roles like Dean of Nursing. Demand for nurse educators remains high due to widespread faculty shortages, making this career both impactful and financially stable.
18. Cardiac Nurse Practitioner — $128,000
Specializing in cardiology, Cardiac Nurse Practitioners diagnose and manage patients with cardiovascular conditions, from hypertension to congestive heart failure. With the rise in heart disease, this specialty continues to climb among nursing careers with high salaries.
Cardiac NPs typically earn their MSN or DNP with a focus in acute or cardiovascular care, after gaining foundational RN experience.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook (2023–2033) |
|---|---|---|
| $100,000 – $150,000 | 6–8 years | 45% growth (NPs overall) |
With an average annual salary near $128,000, Cardiac NPs benefit from strong demand and competitive compensation. These specialists work in hospitals, cardiology clinics, cath labs, and rehab units—collaborating with cardiologists to improve outcomes for patients with heart-related illnesses.
19. Utilization Review Nurse — $106,000
For nurses interested in case management and insurance protocols, becoming a Utilization Review Nurse is a lucrative pivot from bedside care. These professionals assess treatment plans, patient records, and clinical documentation to ensure healthcare services are medically necessary and cost-effective. As part of the expanding field of nursing careers with high salaries, this role blends clinical knowledge with administrative oversight.
Most utilization review nurses hold a BSN and have several years of bedside or acute care experience. Familiarity with healthcare reimbursement and payer policies is essential.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook (2023–2033) |
|---|---|---|
| $80,000 – $120,000 | 4–5 years (BSN) | 29% (health management roles) |
With average salaries around $106,000, utilization nurses can earn more in supervisory roles or with major insurance firms. The shift from clinical chaos to a structured office or remote job offers a better work-life balance—making this a sought-after option for RNs looking to transition into non-bedside nursing careers with high salaries.
20. Emergency Room (ER) Nurse — $116,000
Emergency Room Nurses are the frontline defenders in medical crises, treating patients suffering from trauma, strokes, cardiac arrests, and acute injuries. ER nurses must be fast, decisive, and resilient—often operating in high-pressure, unpredictable environments. Many pursue CEN (Certified Emergency Nurse) credentials to advance in this specialty.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook (2023–2033) |
|---|---|---|
| $70,000 – $120,000 | 4 years (BSN) | 6% (RN overall) |
With average salaries nearing $116,000 in top markets, and opportunities to boost pay through overtime or shift differentials, ER nursing remains one of the most dynamic nursing careers with high salaries. These nurses work in trauma centers, emergency departments, and sometimes as part of disaster response teams—saving lives in fast-paced settings every day.
21. Orthopedic Nurse — $115,000
Orthopedic Nurses specialize in musculoskeletal health, supporting patients through recovery from joint replacements, spinal surgeries, fractures, and arthritis. They collaborate closely with orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists, assisting in post-op care, pain management, and patient education for rehabilitation.
Ortho nurses may pursue ONC (Orthopedic Nurse Certification) to solidify their expertise in this growing field.
| Annual Salary Range | Years of Study | Career Outlook (2023–2033) |
|---|---|---|
| $75,000 – $120,000 | 4 years (BSN) | 6% (RN overall) |
With an average salary around $115,000, orthopedic nurses benefit from strong demand due to the aging population and the rise in orthopedic surgeries and sports injuries. This makes orthopedic care a stable and rewarding option among nursing careers with high salaries in 2025 and beyond.
Exploring nursing careers with high salaries is essential for nurses aiming to maximize both income and impact in 2025. Today’s healthcare system offers a wide range of nursing careers with high salaries, from clinical roles to administrative leadership. Whether you’re interested in acute care, informatics, or advanced practice, nursing careers with high salaries provide long-term financial stability. Specialized fields like anesthesia, critical care, and midwifery are among the nursing careers with high salaries gaining traction. Many RNs are now upgrading their credentials to access nursing careers with high salaries that offer greater autonomy and rewards. With job demand surging nationwide, nursing careers with high salaries are more accessible than ever.
New graduates and experienced nurses alike are turning to nursing careers with high salaries to meet both personal and professional goals. As healthcare evolves, choosing nursing careers with high salaries positions you for long-term growth. If you’re seeking fulfillment and top earnings, nursing careers with high salaries are the future. This guide explores 21 top nursing careers with high salaries—each with strong outlooks and competitive pay. By understanding the landscape of nursing careers with high salaries, you can align your education and passion with opportunity. From bedside care to executive roles, nursing careers with high salaries reflect the value nurses bring to modern healthcare.
Want to increase your earning potential? Start by identifying your ideal specialty, pursue the required education, and obtain certifications that set you apart.
Remember: The best-paying roles reward those who blend compassion with competence—and who aren’t afraid to keep growing.
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