Audiologists vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Registered Nurses out-earn Audiologists by $2K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Audiologists land at $95,780 and Registered Nurses at $97,550. The education gap is real: audiologist programs typically require doctoral or professional degree, while registered nurse programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Audiologists is Nevada ($133,110); for Registered Nurses it's California ($140,270).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Audiologists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Audiologists or Registered Nurses?
Registered Nurses earn more nationally. The median is $95,780 for Audiologists versus $97,550 for Registered Nurses, a difference of $2K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Audiologists or Registered Nurses?
Audiologists has the better 10-year outlook at 9.5% projected growth, compared to 4.9% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Audiologists or Registered Nurses?
Audiologists typically requires doctoral or professional degree. Registered Nurses requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Audiologists get paid the most?
Nevada is the top-paying state for Audiologists at $133,110/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Audiologists vs. Registered Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Nevada, Audiologists earn $133,110 vs. $103,670 for Registered Nurses. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.