How to Become a Registered Nurses in Missouri
Registered Nurses in Missouri earn a median salary of $79,770/year, which is 15% below the national average. Missouri has a state income tax of ~3.8%. After taxes and rent, a registered nurses takes home approximately $3,712/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a registered nurses can afford in Missouri
Becoming a registered nurses in Missouri
Meet education requirements
Registered Nurses positions in Missouri typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Missouri. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves none in Missouri. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Missouri licensure or certification
Missouri may require specific licensing or professional certification for registered nursess. Requirements vary by state — contact the Missouri Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Missouri
Missouri employs 74,270 registered nurses. The highest concentrations are in Kansas City and St. Louis.
Registered Nurses salary by metro area in Missouri
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas City | $83K | $39.73/hr | 28,180 |
| St. Louis | $83K | $39.69/hr | 33,660 |
| Columbia | $81K | $39.12/hr | 3,640 |
| Cape Girardeau | $79K | $38.22/hr | 1,520 |
| Jefferson City | $76K | $36.5/hr | 1,450 |
| St. Joseph | $75K | $35.94/hr | 1,280 |
| Joplin | $73K | $35.19/hr | 2,470 |
| Springfield | $67K | $31.98/hr | 7,450 |
Registered Nurses salary range in Missouri
Registered Nurses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a registered nurses make in Missouri?▼
The median registered nurses salary in Missouri is $79,770 per year ($38.35/hr). This is 15% below the national median of $93,600. Salaries range from $58,510 to $103,140.
What are the requirements to become a registered nurses in Missouri?▼
Registered Nurses positions in Missouri typically require Bachelor's degree. Missouri may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Missouri licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a registered nurses afford to live in Missouri?▼
At the median salary of $79,770, a registered nurses in Missouri would take home approximately $5,124/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for registered nurses in Missouri?▼
The highest paying metro areas for registered nurses in Missouri are Kansas City ($82,630), St. Louis ($82,560), Columbia ($81,370). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Missouri have state income tax for registered nurses?▼
Yes, Missouri has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.8%. On a $79,770 salary, this means roughly $3,016/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.