Dermatologists vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Dermatologists out-earn Registered Nurses by $231K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Dermatologists land at $328,730 and Registered Nurses at $97,550. The education gap is real: dermatologist programs typically require doctoral or professional degree, while registered nurse programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Dermatologists is Minnesota ($625,790); for Registered Nurses it's California ($140,270).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Dermatologists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Dermatologists or Registered Nurses?
Dermatologists earn more nationally. The median is $328,730 for Dermatologists versus $97,550 for Registered Nurses, a difference of $231K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Dermatologists or Registered Nurses?
Dermatologists has the better 10-year outlook at 6.4% projected growth, compared to 4.9% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Dermatologists or Registered Nurses?
Dermatologists typically requires doctoral or professional degree. Registered Nurses requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Dermatologists get paid the most?
Minnesota is the top-paying state for Dermatologists at $625,790/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Dermatologists vs. Registered Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Minnesota, Dermatologists earn $625,790 vs. $101,510 for Registered Nurses. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.