Let’s take a look at 6 ways how you can take control of your earning potential while continuing to thrive in your nursing career. Ready? Let’s dive in…

How to Earn More Money as a Registered Nurse?

1.      Pursue Further Education and Certifications

One of the most effective ways to increase your income is by advancing your education and earning certifications. Degrees like a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) can lead to higher-paying positions in leadership or specialized roles, such as nurse practitioners or healthcare administrators.

Certifications, like Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) or Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN), can also boost your marketability, allowing you to step into high-paying specialties such as critical care or emergency nursing.

The good news is that many RN-to-BSN programs let you continue working while pursuing your degree, so you don’t have to step away from your job to invest in your future.

2.      Explore High-Paying Nursing Specialties

Specializing in a specific area of nursing is a great way to boost your income. High-paying specialties, such as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) or Nurse Practitioners (NPs), require extra training but come with significant financial rewards. Here are some specialties worth considering:

Keep in mind that the following data are national annual estimates in the US and can vary by state, experience, and workplace. Income ranges come from the US BLS, Nurse.org, and Indeed.

• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): Earns between $139,980 to $239,200+ annually. Becoming a CRNA requires a master’s or doctoral degree.
• Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM): Salary ranges from $87,320 to $177,530 per year. A master’s in nurse-midwifery is required.
• Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Nurse (NICU): Earns between $92,000 and $166,499 annually. Experience and neonatal certifications are often required.
• Nurse Practitioner (NP): The salary ranges from $94,530 to $168,030. Requires a master’s degree and state certification.
• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): Annual salaries range from $95,079 to $214,906. They need advanced degrees and certification.
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): Salaries range from $103,813 to $240,708 per year. Requires specialized training and certification.

These specialties require extra education and certifications but offer great pay and career growth.

3.      Apply to Nursing Manager Jobs 

Taking on a leadership role, like a charge nurse or nurse manager, can increase your salary. Charge nurses manage teams, oversee patient care, and handle administrative tasks, earning an average of $99,827 per year.

These roles come with more responsibility, but they provide valuable leadership experience and open doors to further career advancement.

4.      Optimize Your Shift Schedule

If you’re looking to increase your income without a major career change, adjusting your shift schedule is a simple yet effective way to earn more as a nurse. Working overtime or taking on night/weekend shifts can significantly increase your earnings. Many hospitals offer shift differentials, meaning that night, evening, or weekend shifts come with additional pay—sometimes as much as 10-20% more per hour.

While the extra hours can increase your paycheck, be mindful of burnout—balance is key.

5.      Leverage Staffing Agencies for High-Paying Opportunities

Healthcare staffing agencies can be a real game-changer. These agencies connect RNs like you with high-paying jobs, including temp-to-hire, contract nursing or travel nursing opportunities that often come with competitive pay—and you get the flexibility to choose assignments that fit your schedule.

To make sure you’re landing the best opportunities, go with agencies that have a strong reputation in Healthcare Excellence staffing. Look for ones that specialize in nursing and have solid connections with top healthcare facilities.

Agencies like APEX CLINICAL STAFFING can help you find great job options across the U.S., offering positions that matches your experience and skills.

6.      Consider Travel Nursing

If you’re up for some adventure and want to earn more, travel nursing could be the perfect fit. As a travel nurse, you’ll take on short-term assignments in different locations, often with higher pay than traditional nursing jobs.

In fact, travel nurses can earn up to 30% more than staff nurses in some cases, this is because of the demand for skilled nurses in different locations. Plus, you get the benefit of travel stipends and bonuses in most of cases.

Wrapping It Up: Your Path to a Higher RN Income

To sum up, boosting your income as a Registered Nurse doesn’t mean you need to change careers—there are numerous ways to grow financially while continuing to care for patients.

Whether it’s advancing your education, specializing in high-demand fields, adjusting your shifts, or exploring travel nursing, the opportunities are diverse.

By applying these six strategies, you can enhance your earning potential and keep making a meaningful difference in Healthcare Excellence.

The post How to Increase Your Income as an RN: 6 Ways appeared first on APEX CLINICAL STAFFING.

Nurses working in top-paying states earn almost double what their colleagues make in other parts of the country. Like all professionals, healthcare workers are always seeking opportunities to increase their earnings while continuing to provide exceptional patient care.

Your choice of state can make a big difference in your take-home pay. We’ve done our homework and gathered detailed information about states offering the best nursing salaries.

Whether you’re a new graduate or an experienced RN considering relocation, this guide is a must-read. It provides valuable salary information for permanent RN roles, helping you discover which states offer the highest salaries for RNs, along with the necessary requirements to practice and important considerations if you’re planning to relocate.

Top 10 highest-paying states for Registered Nurses in 2025

Here are the states offering the highest salaries for Registered Nurses (RNs) in permanent roles. Keep in mind, the yearly and hourly salaries mentioned are average figures.

Top 10 States for RNs: Pay, Cost of Living, and Job Growth

Now that you’ve seen which states offer the highest salaries for RNs, it’s time to think about other key factors. We’ll look at the cost of living, projected job growth, and what qualifications you’ll need to work in each state. Let’s break it all down and help you make the best choice.

1.    California

Yearly Salary for RNs in California: $133,990

Hourly Rate: $64.42

Cost of living: 134.5

RN projected growth by 2030: 11%

RN requirements to work in California

• Education: Graduate from a state-approved or accredited nursing program.
• Examination: Pass the NCLEX-RN.
• License Application: Complete a background check and submit fingerprints.
• Continuing Education: 30 contact hours every two years for license renewal.
• License Renewal: California RN licenses are issued for two birthdays, expire on the last day of the birthday month, and are renewed every two years online.
• Additional Requirements: Apply through the California Board of Registered Nursing online portal.

More info: Registered Nursing Requirements by State

Will California be your next move?

Consider this before you go…

The demand for RNs is high, particularly in specialty fields such as ICU and Emergency Nursing.

To Keep in Mind: California has some of the highest nurse wages in the U.S., but also a higher cost of living, especially in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. The state’s diverse geography offers everything from beaches to mountains.

2. Hawaii

Yearly Salary for RNs in Hawaii: $129,210

Hourly Rate: $62.12

Cost of living: 179

RN projected growth by 2030: 9%

RN requirements to work in Hawaii

• Education: Graduate from an accredited nursing program.
• Examination: Pass the NCLEX-RN.
• License Application: Submit fingerprints, pass a background check, and a valid Social Security card.
• Continuing Education: No continuing education requirements for RNs.
• License Renewal: RNs renew licenses every two years by June 30 in odd years.
• Additional Requirements: Apply through the Hawaii Board of Nursing portal.

More info: Registered Nursing Requirements by State

Will Hawaii be your next move?

Consider this before you go…

Nurses in Hawaii often experience a higher patient-to-nurse ratio, especially in rural areas and on smaller islands.

To Keep in Mind: Moving to Hawaii means living in paradise, but housing costs are among the highest in the U.S., and importing goods means higher prices on everyday items.

3. Oregon

Yearly Salary for RNs in Oregon: $110,940

Hourly Rate: $53.34

Cost of living: $115.1

RN projected growth by 2030: 12%

RN requirements to work in Oregon

• Education: Graduate from an accredited nursing program.
• Examination: Pass the NCLEX-RN.
• License Application: Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check.
• Continuing Education: 960 practice hours every five years or 400 practice hours and 20 hours of continuing education.
• License Renewal: RN licenses renew every two years, expiring the day before the birthday in even or odd years based on the birth year.
• Additional Requirements: Apply through the Oregon State Board of Nursing online portal.

More info: Registered Nursing Requirements by State

Will Oregon be your next move?

Consider this before you go…

Oregon is known for emphasizing holistic care and patient-centered approaches in Healthcare Excellence settings.

To Keep in Mind: Oregon has no sales tax, making everyday purchases a bit cheaper. The state is known for its lush forests, craft breweries, and outdoor activities.

4. Washington

Yearly Salary for RNs in Washington: $107,720

Hourly Rate: $51.79

Cost of living: 115.1

RN projected growth by 2030: 16%

RN requirements to work in Washington

• Education: Graduate from an accredited nursing program.
• Examination: Pass the NCLEX-RN.
• License Application: Complete an FBI fingerprint background check.
• Continuing Education: 8 hours yearly, plus 96 hours of practice every three years.
• Additional Requirements: Apply through the Washington State Board of Nursing.
• Important: Washington is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC).

More info: Registered Nursing Requirements by State

Will Washington be your next move?

Consider this before you go…

• Washington has a growing demand for RNs, particularly in Seattle and rural healthcare systems.
• To Keep in Mind: Washington is a tech hub, and the state is one of the most eco-friendly, known for its green energy initiatives. Seattle is also known for its coffee culture and stunning views of the Puget Sound.

5. Alaska

Yearly Salary for RNs in Alaska: $106,410

Hourly Rate: $51.16

Cost of living: 124.4

RN projected growth by 2030: 14%

RN requirements to work in Alaska

• Education: Graduate from an accredited nursing program.
• Examination: Pass the NCLEX-RN.
• License Application: Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check.
• Continuing Education: 30 contact hours every two years.
• License Renewal: Licensure renewal for RNs ends on November 30 of even-numbered years.
• Additional Requirements: Apply through the Alaska Board of Nursing.

More info: Registered Nursing Requirements by State

Will Alaska be your next move?

Consider this before you go…

RNs in Alaska may work in remote areas with limited medical resources, offering unique challenges and rewards.

To Keep in Mind: Alaska is famous for its stunning wilderness, and healthcare professionals often get unique opportunities to work with indigenous populations and experience the northern lights.

6. New York

Yearly Salary for RNs in New York: $104,570

Hourly Rate: $50.28

Cost of living: 125.1

RN projected growth by 2030: 17%

RN requirements to work in NY

• Education: Graduate from an accredited nursing program and complete coursework in child abuse identification and infection control.
• Examination: Pass the NCLEX-RN.
• License Application: Submit fingerprints for a background check.
• Continuing Education: No specific continuing education requirements.
• License Renewal: RN licenses need to be renewed every three years in the licensee’s birth month.
• Additional Requirements: Apply through the New York State Education Department – Nursing (NYSED).

More info: Registered Nursing Requirements by State

Will New York be your next move?

Consider this before you go…

New York offers a range of opportunities, from urban hospitals to rural healthcare centers, but the job market is competitive.

To Keep in Mind: New York City is known for its world-class healthcare institutions, while upstate New York offers a slower pace of life and stunning natural beauty, including the Adirondack Mountains.

7. Connecticut

Yearly Salary for RNs in Connecticut: $100,620

Hourly Rate: $48.37

Cost of living: 113.1

RN projected growth by 2030: 4%

RN requirements to work in Connecticut

• Education: Graduate from an accredited nursing program.
• Examination: Pass the NCLEX-RN.
• License Application: Submit to a criminal background check.
• Continuing Education: 12 contact hours every two years, including at least one hour related to infectious diseases.
• License Renewal: Licenses need to be renewed annually.
• Additional Requirements: Apply through the Connecticut Department of Public Health – Nursing.

More info: Registered Nursing Requirements by State

Will Connecticut be your next move?

Consider this before you go…

Connecticut has a strong demand for RNs, particularly in specialized fields like oncology and geriatrics.

To Keep in Mind: Connecticut is home to some of the oldest cities in the U.S., offering a rich colonial history and quaint New England charm. It also boasts a strong healthcare system with many prestigious hospitals.

8. Massachusetts

Yearly Salary for RNs in Massachusetts: $99,730

Hourly Rate: $47.95

Cost of living: 148.4

RN projected growth by 2030: 12%

RN requirements to work in Massachusetts

• Education: Graduate from an accredited nursing program.
• Examination: Pass the NCLEX-RN.
• License Application: Submit fingerprints and pass a background check.
• Continuing Education: 15 contact hours every two years.
• License Renewal: RN licenses expire on your birthday in even years.
• Additional Requirements: Apply through the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing online portal.
• Important: You must be licensed in another state or the District of Columbia and have a valid Social Security number to apply.

More info: Registered Nursing Requirements by State

Will Massachusetts be your next move?

Consider this before you go…

The state is home to some of the best hospitals in the country, particularly in Boston. The healthcare system is innovative and offers many research opportunities.

To Keep in Mind: Massachusetts is home to the world-renowned Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School. Boston is also known for its sports culture and historic landmarks.

9. Minnesota

Yearly Salary for RNs in Minnesota: $97,300

Hourly Rate: $46.78

Cost of living: 94.1

RN projected growth by 2030: 7%

RN requirements to work in Minnesota

• Education: Graduate from an accredited nursing program.
• Examination: Pass the NCLEX-RN.
• License Application: Submit to a criminal background check.
• Continuing Education: 24 contact hours every two years.
• License Renewal: Licenses renew every two years on the birthday month.
• Additional Requirements: Apply through the Minnesota Board of Nursing online portal.
• Important: There are non-refundable application fees.

More info: Registered Nursing Requirements by State

Will Minnesota be your next move?

Consider this before you go…

Minnesota has an extensive healthcare system, including the Mayo Clinic, one of the top hospitals in the world.

To Keep in Mind: Minnesota’s “Land of 10,000 Lakes” nickname is no joke—it’s a great state for outdoor activities year-round. The cost of living is relatively affordable compared to other states with top-tier healthcare systems.

10. Nevada

Yearly salary for RNs in Nevada: $96,210

Hourly rate: $46.25

Cost of living: 101.3

RN projected growth by 2030: 23%

RN requirements to work in Nevada

• Education: Graduate from an accredited nursing program.
• Examination: Pass the NCLEX-RN.
• License Application: Submit fingerprints and pass a background check.
• Continuing Education: 30 contact hours every two years.
• RN License Renewal: Nursing licenses expire every two years on the licensee’s birthdate, with renewals opening 60 days prior.
• Additional Requirements: Apply through the Nevada State Board of Nursing’s online portal.
• Important: There are non-refundable application fees.

More info: Registered Nursing Requirements by State

Will Nevada be your next move?

Consider this before you go…

Nevada offers a variety of nursing opportunities, from Las Vegas hospitals to rural healthcare, but competition can be strong in the urban areas.

To Keep in Mind: Nevada is known for its desert landscapes and 24-hour cities like Las Vegas. The state has no personal income tax, making it a popular destination for those looking to save on taxes.

In a Glance: Top States for RN

In conclusion, when it comes to maximizing your earning potential as an RN, location plays a crucial role. States like California, Hawaii, and Oregon offer some of the highest salaries for Registered Nurses, but it’s important to balance salary with the cost of living and specific state requirements.

Whether you are just starting your nursing career or considering a move to a new state, the right location can provide not only a higher paycheck but also unique opportunities for professional growth.

Take time to research the requirements and benefits of each state to ensure that your next career move aligns with both your financial goals and lifestyle preferences.

The post Where to Earn the Most: Highest Paying States for RNs in 2025 appeared first on APEX CLINICAL STAFFING.

Salary Range for Phlebotomists 

Salary Range: Highest and Lowest Pay 

Phlebotomist salaries can vary significantly based on a range of factors. Generally, the salary range for phlebotomists spans from the lower end at about $14 per hour to the upper end exceeding $30 per hour depending on the geographical area. Entry-level phlebotomists typically start at the lower end of this range, while experienced professionals can earn salaries at the higher end. 

Factors Influencing Salaries 

Several factors influence how much a phlebotomist can earn, including: 

• Experience level 

• Geographical location 

• Type of workplace (hospital, clinic, laboratory, etc.) 

• Employment status (full-time, part-time, contract, permanent) 

Salary Factors: On What Does Phlebotomist Salary Depend? 

Phlebotomist Salary by Experience Levels 

Entry-level 

Entry-level phlebotomists, those just starting in the field, can expect to earn around $14 – $20 per hour. They often gain experience through on-the-job training or internships, which helps them to build their skills and increase their earning potential over time. 

Mid-career 

Phlebotomists with a few years of experience generally see an increase in their salaries. Mid-career professionals can earn between $18 and $24 per hour, depending on their proficiency, additional certifications, and the complexity of their duties.

Experienced 

Experienced phlebotomists with extensive knowledge and skills in the field can command salaries ranging from $25 to $30 per hour or more. Their expertise in handling various types of patients and complex procedures makes them highly valuable in medical settings.

Phlebotomist Salary by Location 

Highest-Paying States 

Phlebotomist salaries vary widely depending on the state. Some of the highest-paying states for phlebotomists include: 

• California 

• New York 

• Massachusetts 

• Washington 

• Alaska 

In these states, phlebotomists can earn significantly more due to the higher cost of living and the demand for healthcare services. 

Highest-Paying Cities 

In addition to state variations, salaries can also differ within states themselves. Some of the highest-paying cities for phlebotomists include: 

• San Francisco, CA 

• Seattle, WA 

• New York City, NY 

• Boston, MA 

• Anchorage, AK 

Urban areas tend to offer higher salaries due to the higher cost of living and the greater demand for healthcare services. 

Urban vs. Rural Areas 

Phlebotomists working in urban areas generally earn more than those in rural areas. Urban areas tend to have a higher demand for healthcare services and a higher cost of living, which translates into higher salaries. However, rural areas may offer more stability and fewer job competition, which can be appealing to some professionals. 

Phlebotomist Salary by Workplace & Contract Type 

Hospitals vs. Clinics vs. Laboratories 

The type of workplace can significantly impact a phlebotomist’s salary: 

• Hospitals: Phlebotomists in hospitals typically earn higher salaries due to the high volume of patients and the need for 24/7 staffing. 

• Clinics: Those working in clinics might earn slightly less than their hospital counterparts, but they may benefit from more regular hours and a less stressful work environment. 

• Laboratories: Phlebotomists in laboratories often have specialized roles that can command higher salaries, especially if they work in research or high-demand testing facilities. 

Full-Time vs. Part-Time 

Employment status also plays a crucial role in determining salary: 

• Full-Time: Full-time phlebotomists generally receive higher salaries and benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans. 

• Part-Time: Part-time phlebotomists may earn less on an annual basis but could have higher hourly wages. The trade-off is often fewer benefits compared to full-time employees. 

Contract vs. Permanent Positions 

The type of employment contract can influence earning potential: 

• Contract: Contract phlebotomists might earn higher hourly wages due to the temporary nature of their work and the lack of benefits. However, they typically do not have job security. 

• Permanent: Permanent positions offer stability and benefits, which can enhance overall compensation despite potentially lower hourly wages compared to contract work. 

Conclusion 

In summary, phlebotomist salaries vary widely based on experience, location, workplace type, and employment status. Understanding these factors can help aspiring phlebotomists make informed career decisions and navigate their professional journey effectively. Whether starting out or advancing in their careers, phlebotomists play a vital role in Healthcare Excellence, and their expertise is highly valued. 

Explore Current Job Openings 

If you are interested in pursuing a career in phlebotomy, explore current job openings or reach out to our healthcare recruiters for phlebotomy positions. Your future in this rewarding field awaits! 

The post Phlebotomist Salaries: How Much Can You Earn & Where?  appeared first on APEX CLINICAL STAFFING.

Nurses are the foundation of healthcare delivery. Ensuring nursing staff feel valued and supported should be a top priority for healthcare leadership.

When healthcare organizations address nurses’ unique needs and challenges through supportive policies and practices, nurses feel more empowered and satisfied in their work, enabling them to build more sustainable careers. Further, investing in a positive and engaging environment for nurses pays dividends in patient outcomes, nurse retention, and workplace culture.

Here are 5 ways to support your nursing team:

The post 5 Ways to Support Your Nursing Team appeared first on APEX CLINICAL STAFFING.

Hospitals and healthcare facilities nationwide are facing significant challenges in filling staff positions, particularly for nurses and physicians. These staffing shortages pose a serious risk to patient access and quality of care. From rural health clinics to large urban hospitals, it is critical that innovative strategies be implemented to address these workforce gaps and ensure that the healthcare needs of communities can continue to be met effectively.

Read on for several proven staffing approaches that can help ensure operations continue smoothly despite shortages.

The post How Healthcare Facilities Can Manage Staffing Shortages appeared first on APEX CLINICAL STAFFING.

In recognition of National Social Workers Month this March, we are highlighting projected employment statistics for some of the most impactful professions in the social work field.

Social workers empower individuals and communities to overcome challenges, trauma, discrimination, and other barriers. Employment opportunities for social workers are projected to increase by 7% over the next eight years, equating to over 75,000 new jobs. This growth can be attributed to an aging U.S. population as well as greater awareness and education surrounding mental health issues. As more people seek support, the value of social workers will continue to grow.

Continue reading as we examine the employment projections reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for jobs in the social work field.

The post Social Work Job Growth Outpacing National Average Through 2032 appeared first on APEX CLINICAL STAFFING.

The healthcare industry has reached a critical juncture. After years of unrelenting strain from the COVID-19 pandemic, staff burnout has become an urgent priority that must be addressed for healthcare businesses to thrive in the years ahead:

The post Beating Burnout: How Healthcare Can Thrive in 2024 appeared first on APEX CLINICAL STAFFING.

When undergoing surgery or other medical procedures requiring anesthesia, most patients don’t give much thought to the medical professional who will be administering their anesthesia. However, there are important differences between nurse anesthetists (also known as CRNAs) and anesthesiologists that are useful to understand.

Nurse anesthetists and anesthesiologists work closely together but have different levels of education and areas of focus. Below we provide an overview of both roles.

The post Nurse Anesthetist vs Anesthesiologist: A Comparison appeared first on APEX CLINICAL STAFFING.

If you’re looking to start a career that promises stability, growth, and letting you make a difference in people’s lives, healthcare should be at the top of your list. The industry has positively exploded over the last decade. And as baby boomers age and medical technology advances, the hiring surge shows no signs of slowing down.

So what are the best medical jobs to go after in 2024 and beyond? Read on to see the top 10 healthcare positions seeing the most growth right now:

The post The 10 Hottest Healthcare Jobs Right Now appeared first on APEX CLINICAL STAFFING.

As demand fluctuates, many healthcare facilities turn to travel nurses to fill gaps in staffing. While travel nurses offer crucial flexibility, effectively onboarding them requires some unique considerations compared to permanent staff.

Here’s what hospitals and medical centers should keep in mind when welcoming travel nurses to maximize productivity:

The post What Facilities Should Know About Onboarding Travel Nurses appeared first on APEX CLINICAL STAFFING.