Chiropractors vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Registered Nurses out-earn Chiropractors by $18K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Chiropractors land at $79,200 and Registered Nurses at $97,550. The education gap is real: chiropractor programs typically require doctoral or professional degree, while registered nurse programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Chiropractors is New Jersey ($134,990); for Registered Nurses it's California ($140,270).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Chiropractors median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Chiropractors or Registered Nurses?
Registered Nurses earn more nationally. The median is $79,200 for Chiropractors versus $97,550 for Registered Nurses, a difference of $18K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Chiropractors or Registered Nurses?
Chiropractors 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, Chiropractors or Registered Nurses?
Chiropractors typically requires doctoral or professional degree. Registered Nurses requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Chiropractors get paid the most?
New Jersey is the top-paying state for Chiropractors at $134,990/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Chiropractors vs. Registered Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In New Jersey, Chiropractors earn $134,990 vs. $106,500 for Registered Nurses. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.