How to Become a Registered Nurses in Alabama
Registered Nurses in Alabama earn a median salary of $71,040/year, which is 24% below the national average. Alabama has a state income tax of ~4.8%. After taxes and rent, a registered nurses takes home approximately $3,169/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a registered nurses can afford in Alabama
Becoming a registered nurses in Alabama
Meet education requirements
Registered Nurses positions in Alabama typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Alabama. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves none in Alabama. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Alabama licensure or certification
Alabama may require specific licensing or professional certification for registered nursess. Requirements vary by state — contact the Alabama Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Alabama
Alabama employs 53,340 registered nurses. The highest concentrations are in Montgomery and Auburn-Opelika.
Registered Nurses salary by metro area in Alabama
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montgomery | $80K | $38.58/hr | 3,720 |
| Auburn-Opelika | $78K | $37.37/hr | 1,350 |
| Daphne-Fairhope-Foley | $77K | $37.1/hr | 1,790 |
| Birmingham | $76K | $36.55/hr | 18,330 |
| Gadsden | $74K | $35.59/hr | 1,210 |
| Mobile | $70K | $33.51/hr | 5,200 |
| Tuscaloosa | $69K | $33.07/hr | 2,460 |
| Anniston-Oxford | $69K | $33.04/hr | 1,050 |
| Decatur | $67K | $32.22/hr | 760 |
| Huntsville | $66K | $31.75/hr | 6,590 |
| Dothan | $65K | $31.28/hr | 1,970 |
| Florence-Muscle Shoals | $64K | $30.95/hr | 1,340 |
Registered Nurses salary range in Alabama
Registered Nurses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a registered nurses make in Alabama?▼
The median registered nurses salary in Alabama is $71,040 per year ($34.16/hr). This is 24% below the national median of $93,600. Salaries range from $53,360 to $98,840.
What are the requirements to become a registered nurses in Alabama?▼
Registered Nurses positions in Alabama typically require Bachelor's degree. Alabama may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Alabama licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a registered nurses afford to live in Alabama?▼
At the median salary of $71,040, a registered nurses in Alabama would take home approximately $4,581/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 30.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for registered nurses in Alabama?▼
The highest paying metro areas for registered nurses in Alabama are Montgomery ($80,250), Auburn-Opelika ($77,720), Daphne-Fairhope-Foley ($77,160). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Alabama have state income tax for registered nurses?▼
Yes, Alabama has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.8%. On a $71,040 salary, this means roughly $3,387/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.