How to Become a Registered Nurses in Wisconsin
Registered Nurses in Wisconsin earn a median salary of $86,070/year, which is 8% below the national average. Wisconsin has a state income tax of ~4.1%. After taxes and rent, a registered nurses takes home approximately $4,040/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a registered nurses can afford in Wisconsin
Becoming a registered nurses in Wisconsin
Meet education requirements
Registered Nurses positions in Wisconsin typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Wisconsin. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves none in Wisconsin. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Wisconsin licensure or certification
Wisconsin may require specific licensing or professional certification for registered nursess. Requirements vary by state — contact the Wisconsin Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Wisconsin
Wisconsin employs 64,960 registered nurses. The highest concentrations are in La Crosse-Onalaska and Madison.
Registered Nurses salary by metro area in Wisconsin
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Crosse-Onalaska | $96K | $46.06/hr | 2,780 |
| Madison | $90K | $43.26/hr | 9,990 |
| Janesville-Beloit | $85K | $40.68/hr | 1,450 |
| Kenosha | $85K | $40.63/hr | 1,560 |
| Milwaukee-Waukesha | $84K | $40.38/hr | 21,950 |
| Oshkosh-Neenah | $83K | $39.9/hr | 1,910 |
| Appleton | $82K | $39.35/hr | 2,040 |
| Eau Claire | $81K | $39.14/hr | 2,410 |
| Sheboygan | $81K | $39.12/hr | 910 |
| Racine-Mount Pleasant | $81K | $38.96/hr | 1,230 |
| Fond du Lac | $80K | $38.64/hr | 890 |
| Green Bay | $80K | $38.24/hr | 4,740 |
| Wausau | $79K | $37.99/hr | 1,570 |
Registered Nurses salary range in Wisconsin
Registered Nurses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a registered nurses make in Wisconsin?▼
The median registered nurses salary in Wisconsin is $86,070 per year ($41.38/hr). This is 8% below the national median of $93,600. Salaries range from $74,970 to $109,270.
What are the requirements to become a registered nurses in Wisconsin?▼
Registered Nurses positions in Wisconsin typically require Bachelor's degree. Wisconsin may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Wisconsin licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a registered nurses afford to live in Wisconsin?▼
At the median salary of $86,070, a registered nurses in Wisconsin would take home approximately $5,452/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 25.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for registered nurses in Wisconsin?▼
The highest paying metro areas for registered nurses in Wisconsin are La Crosse-Onalaska ($95,800), Madison ($89,980), Janesville-Beloit ($84,610). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Wisconsin have state income tax for registered nurses?▼
Yes, Wisconsin has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.1%. On a $86,070 salary, this means roughly $3,515/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.