Nurse Practitioners: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 307,390 nurse practitioners, and they earn a median of $129,210/year. The range runs from $98K to $170K. California pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level nurse practitioners start around $98K. The gap between that and the median ($129K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $170K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| California | $167K | 20,980 |
| New Jersey | $150K | 9,590 |
| Alaska | $145K | 570 |
| New York | $145K | 20,430 |
| Oregon | $145K | 2,430 |
| Washington | $140K | 4,790 |
| Connecticut | $139K | 3,680 |
| Massachusetts | $139K | 8,920 |
| New Mexico | $138K | 1,870 |
| Arizona | $134K | 7,540 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a nurse practitioners make?▼
The median nurse practitioners salary in the United States is $129,210 per year ($62/hour). Entry-level positions start around $97,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $169,950.
What education do you need to become a nurse practitioners?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for nurse practitioners?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for nurse practitioners.
What are the highest paying states for nurse practitioners?▼
The highest paying states for nurse practitioners are California ($166,610), New Jersey ($149,620), Alaska ($145,450), New York ($145,390), Oregon ($144,600). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.