How to Become a Registered Nurses in Massachusetts
Registered Nurses in Massachusetts earn a median salary of $101,970/year, which is 9% above the national average. Massachusetts has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a registered nurses takes home approximately $4,840/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a registered nurses can afford in Massachusetts
Becoming a registered nurses in Massachusetts
Meet education requirements
Registered Nurses positions in Massachusetts typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Massachusetts. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves none in Massachusetts. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Massachusetts licensure or certification
Massachusetts may require specific licensing or professional certification for registered nursess. Requirements vary by state — contact the Massachusetts Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Massachusetts
Massachusetts employs 90,190 registered nurses. The highest concentrations are in Worcester and Boston-Cambridge-Newton.
Registered Nurses salary by metro area in Massachusetts
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Worcester | $103K | $49.76/hr | 9,730 |
| Boston-Cambridge-Newton | $102K | $49.25/hr | 66,440 |
| Pittsfield | $102K | $48.96/hr | 1,280 |
| Amherst Town-Northampton | $100K | $47.97/hr | 1,360 |
| Barnstable Town | $99K | $47.68/hr | 1,910 |
| Springfield | $91K | $43.74/hr | 5,730 |
Registered Nurses salary range in Massachusetts
Registered Nurses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a registered nurses make in Massachusetts?▼
The median registered nurses salary in Massachusetts is $101,970 per year ($49.03/hr). This is 9% above the national median of $93,600. Salaries range from $76,950 to $173,590.
What are the requirements to become a registered nurses in Massachusetts?▼
Registered Nurses positions in Massachusetts typically require Bachelor's degree. Massachusetts may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Massachusetts licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a registered nurses afford to live in Massachusetts?▼
At the median salary of $101,970, a registered nurses in Massachusetts would take home approximately $6,252/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 22.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for registered nurses in Massachusetts?▼
The highest paying metro areas for registered nurses in Massachusetts are Worcester ($103,490), Boston-Cambridge-Newton ($102,440), Pittsfield ($101,840). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Massachusetts have state income tax for registered nurses?▼
Yes, Massachusetts has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $101,970 salary, this means roughly $5,099/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.