* Location: Salaries are considerably higher in major metropolitan areas and states with high costs of living (e.g., California, New York, Hawaii) compared to rural areas or states with lower costs of living.
* Experience: Entry-level RNs with a BSN will earn less than those with several years of experience. Salaries generally increase with experience and the acquisition of advanced skills and certifications.
* Employer: Hospitals, clinics, government agencies, and private practices all offer different compensation packages. Hospitals often have structured pay scales, while smaller practices might offer a wider range depending on their financial situation.
* Specialization: RNs who specialize in high-demand areas (e.g., critical care, operating room, emergency medicine) often command higher salaries.
* Shift differentials: Night shifts, weekend shifts, and holiday shifts usually come with added pay.
General Salary Range:
While a precise number is impossible, a newly graduated RN with a BSN can expect a starting salary somewhere in the range of $55,000 to $80,000 per year in the United States. Experienced RNs with a BSN can earn significantly more, potentially reaching $75,000 to $120,000+ per year or even more depending on the factors listed above.
To get a more accurate estimate for a specific location, it's best to consult salary websites like:
* Salary.com
* Glassdoor
* Indeed
* Payscale
These websites allow you to filter by location, experience, and employer type to get a more refined salary range.