How to Become a Registered Nurses in Pennsylvania
Registered Nurses in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $87,610/year, which is 6% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a registered nurses takes home approximately $4,199/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a registered nurses can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a registered nurses in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Registered Nurses positions in Pennsylvania typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves none in Pennsylvania. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification
Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for registered nursess. Requirements vary by state — contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania employs 146,840 registered nurses. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton.
Registered Nurses salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $99K | $47.7/hr | 74,840 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $97K | $46.69/hr | 10,510 |
| Lebanon | $97K | $46.52/hr | 1,240 |
| Reading | $96K | $46.31/hr | 3,360 |
| Chambersburg | $91K | $43.57/hr | 1,000 |
| Williamsport | $86K | $41.36/hr | 1,250 |
| York-Hanover | $86K | $41.25/hr | 3,700 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $86K | $41.1/hr | 8,950 |
| Lancaster | $83K | $39.99/hr | 5,120 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $81K | $39.16/hr | 5,430 |
| Pittsburgh | $81K | $39.03/hr | 29,560 |
| Johnstown | $81K | $39.03/hr | 1,160 |
| State College | $81K | $38.76/hr | 1,270 |
| Gettysburg | $81K | $38.71/hr | 450 |
| Altoona | $80K | $38.69/hr | 1,560 |
Registered Nurses salary range in Pennsylvania
Registered Nurses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a registered nurses make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median registered nurses salary in Pennsylvania is $87,610 per year ($42.12/hr). This is 6% below the national median of $93,600. Salaries range from $67,410 to $116,590.
What are the requirements to become a registered nurses in Pennsylvania?▼
Registered Nurses positions in Pennsylvania typically require Bachelor's degree. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a registered nurses afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $87,610, a registered nurses in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $5,611/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 25.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for registered nurses in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for registered nurses in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($99,210), Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton ($97,110), Lebanon ($96,770). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for registered nurses?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $87,610 salary, this means roughly $2,690/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.