Speech-Language Pathologists vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Speech-Language Pathologistss out-earn Registered Nursess by $320 a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Speech-Language Pathologistss land at $97,870 and Registered Nursess at $97,550. The education gap is real: speech-language pathologist programs typically require master's degree, while registered nurse programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Speech-Language Pathologistss is California ($118,970); for Registered Nursess it's California ($140,270).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Speech-Language Pathologists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Speech-Language Pathologistss or Registered Nursess?
Speech-Language Pathologistss earn more nationally. The median is $97,870 for Speech-Language Pathologistss versus $97,550 for Registered Nursess, a difference of $320. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Speech-Language Pathologists or Registered Nurses?
Speech-Language Pathologists has the better 10-year outlook at 15% projected growth, compared to 4.9% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Speech-Language Pathologists or Registered Nurses?
Speech-Language Pathologists typically requires master's degree. Registered Nurses requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Speech-Language Pathologistss get paid the most?
California is the top-paying state for Speech-Language Pathologistss at $118,970/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Speech-Language Pathologists vs. Registered Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In California, Speech-Language Pathologistss earn $118,970 vs. $140,270 for Registered Nursess. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.