Paramedics vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Registered Nursess out-earn Paramedicss by $37K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Paramedicss land at $60,600 and Registered Nursess 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 Paramedicss is Washington ($104,310); for Registered Nursess 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, Paramedicss or Registered Nursess?
Registered Nursess earn more nationally. The median is $60,600 for Paramedicss versus $97,550 for Registered Nursess, a difference of $37K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Paramedics 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, 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 Paramedicss get paid the most?
Washington is the top-paying state for Paramedicss 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, Paramedicss earn $104,310 vs. $124,200 for Registered Nursess. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.