Nurse Practitioner Salary
Estimated Pay by Experience Level
Salary by State
Median annual| State | Median / yr | Relative pay |
|---|---|---|
| California | $168,520 | |
| New Jersey | $159,310 | |
| Washington | $156,100 | |
| Oregon | $155,680 | |
| Alaska | $155,170 | |
| New York | $153,510 | |
| Massachusetts | $142,440 | |
| Nevada | $140,670 | |
| National Median | $132,300 |
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The highest sticker pay isn't always where nurse practitioners keep the most. See Nurse Practitioner pay adjusted for cost of living by state in the Real Pay Index.
How to Become a Nurse Practitioner
Nurse practitioners are advanced-practice registered nurses who diagnose conditions, prescribe medication, and manage patient care.
Meet the education requirement
Most nurse practitioners enter the field with master's degree. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.
Complete an accredited training program
Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.
Earn the Board certification (FNP-BC or AANP)
Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $101,340 and rises toward $174,420 with experience.
Nurse Practitioner salary: common questions
How much does a Nurse Practitioner make an hour?
The median hourly wage for nurse practitioners is $63.61, which works out to about $132,300 per year for full-time work.
Which state pays nurse practitioners the most?
California has the highest median pay for nurse practitioners at $168,520 per year — 27% above the national median of $132,300.
What is the salary range for nurse practitioners?
Most nurse practitioners earn between $101,340 and $174,420 per year. The middle 50% earn $117,990 to $156,700, with a median of $132,300.
Is becoming a Nurse Practitioner a good career?
Employment is projected to grow 38% (much faster than average), and the role typically requires master's degree. With a median wage of $132,300 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.