Exercise Physiologists vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Registered Nurses out-earn Exercise Physiologists by $38K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Exercise Physiologists land at $59,460 and Registered Nurses at $97,550. The education gap is real: exercise physiologist programs typically require bachelor's degree, while registered nurse programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Exercise Physiologists is Washington ($81,310); for Registered Nurses it's California ($140,270).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Exercise Physiologists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Exercise Physiologists or Registered Nurses?
Registered Nurses earn more nationally. The median is $59,460 for Exercise Physiologists versus $97,550 for Registered Nurses, a difference of $38K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Exercise Physiologists or Registered Nurses?
Exercise Physiologists 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, Exercise Physiologists or Registered Nurses?
Exercise Physiologists typically requires bachelor's degree. Registered Nurses requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Exercise Physiologists get paid the most?
Washington is the top-paying state for Exercise Physiologists at $81,310/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Exercise Physiologists vs. Registered Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Washington, Exercise Physiologists earn $81,310 vs. $124,200 for Registered Nurses. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.