Paramedics vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Registered Nurses out-earn Paramedics by $37K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Paramedics land at $60,600 and Registered Nurses at $97,550. The education gap is real: paramedic programs typically require bachelor's degree, while registered nurse programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Paramedics is Washington ($104,310); for Registered Nurses it's California ($140,270).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Paramedics median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Paramedics or Registered Nurses?
Registered Nurses earn more nationally. The median is $60,600 for Paramedics versus $97,550 for Registered Nurses, a difference of $37K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Paramedics or Registered Nurses?
Paramedics has the better 10-year outlook at 5% projected growth, compared to 4.9% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Paramedics or Registered Nurses?
Paramedics typically requires bachelor's degree. Registered Nurses requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Paramedics get paid the most?
Washington is the top-paying state for Paramedics at $104,310/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Paramedics vs. Registered Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Washington, Paramedics earn $104,310 vs. $124,200 for Registered Nurses. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.