Cardiologists vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Cardiologistss out-earn Registered Nursess by $398K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Cardiologistss land at $496,010 and Registered Nursess at $97,550. The education gap is real: cardiologist programs typically require doctoral or professional degree, while registered nurse programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Cardiologistss is Washington ($656,330); for Registered Nursess it's California ($140,270).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Cardiologists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Cardiologistss or Registered Nursess?
Cardiologistss earn more nationally. The median is $496,010 for Cardiologistss versus $97,550 for Registered Nursess, a difference of $398K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Cardiologists or Registered Nurses?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Cardiologists or Registered Nurses?
Cardiologists typically requires doctoral or professional degree. Registered Nurses requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Cardiologistss get paid the most?
Washington is the top-paying state for Cardiologistss at $656,330/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Cardiologists vs. Registered Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Washington, Cardiologistss earn $656,330 vs. $124,200 for Registered Nursess. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.