Pediatric Surgeons vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Pediatric Surgeonss out-earn Registered Nursess by $461K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Pediatric Surgeonss land at $559,030 and Registered Nursess at $97,550. The education gap is real: pediatric surgeon programs typically require doctoral or professional degree, while registered nurse programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Pediatric Surgeonss is Ohio ($488,160); for Registered Nursess it's California ($140,270).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Pediatric Surgeons median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Pediatric Surgeonss or Registered Nursess?
Pediatric Surgeonss earn more nationally. The median is $559,030 for Pediatric Surgeonss versus $97,550 for Registered Nursess, a difference of $461K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Pediatric Surgeons 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, Pediatric Surgeons or Registered Nurses?
Pediatric Surgeons typically requires doctoral or professional degree. Registered Nurses requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Pediatric Surgeonss get paid the most?
Ohio is the top-paying state for Pediatric Surgeonss at $488,160/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Pediatric Surgeons vs. Registered Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Ohio, Pediatric Surgeonss earn $488,160 vs. $82,510 for Registered Nursess. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.