Florida RN Salary
The median RN salary in Florida is $60,258 as of 2023. The pay ranges from the highest 10% of Florida Registered Nurses making $112,094 and the lowest 10% making $11,583. Our salary data for RNs is consolidated from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and ZipRecruiter salary data.
Registered nurses (RNs) provide direct patient care, assess health conditions, and collaborate with healthcare teams to develop and implement care plans. They administer medications, perform diagnostic tests, monitor patient progress, and educate patients and their families about health conditions. RNs also assist with procedures, advocate for patient needs, and ensure that healthcare standards and safety protocols are followed.
How Much Do RNs in Florida Make Per Hour?
The median Florida wage for registered nurses is $29 per hour in the US according to ZipRecruiter salary data.
What does a Registered Nurse do?
Registered nurses (RNs) are typically the first healthcare professionals patients encounter. They perform initial assessments, track vital signs, and regularly evaluate patients' conditions during their care. RNs are responsible for administering medications and treatments, offering patient education, and providing ongoing support to ensure comfort throughout the patient's stay.
In addition to clinical care, RNs manage various administrative tasks such as maintaining patient records, adhering to care plans, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations and safety standards. They also serve as patient advocates, ensuring that their patients' needs and preferences are respected throughout their treatment.
Want to learn more about the duties of Registered Nurses? Read our full article here.
Highest paying nursing agencies for Florida Registered Nurses
Top paying cities for Florida RN
According to ZipRecruiter data
| City | Average Annual Salary |
| Marco Island | $94k |
| Collier County | $93k |
| Merritt Island | $91k |
| Palmetto Bay | $91k |
| Coral Gables | $90k |
| Apollo Beach | $90k |
| Big Pine Key | $90k |
| Molino | $89k |
| Estero | $88k |
Ways to Boost Your Salary as a Registered Nurse in Florida
1. Pursue Advanced Education
Advancing your education is one of the most effective ways to increase your salary. Earning degrees such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) can qualify you for higher-paying roles, including nurse practitioner (NP), nurse educator, or nurse manager. These specialized degrees can open doors to leadership and advanced practice positions that often come with higher salaries.
2. Earn Specialty Certifications
Gaining certifications in specialized areas can enhance your expertise and earning potential. Certifications like CCRN (Critical Care), CEN (Emergency Nursing), or CNOR (Operating Room) showcase your advanced skills, making you more attractive to employers. Specialized nurses are often in high demand, and many healthcare facilities are willing to offer higher pay for these qualifications.
3. Move into Leadership or Administrative Roles
Transitioning into leadership positions such as nurse manager, director of nursing, or chief nursing officer can lead to significantly higher earnings. While these roles often require additional education or experience, they offer opportunities to manage teams, shape policy, and increase your income potential.
4. Work Overtime or Take Extra Shifts
Many healthcare facilities provide overtime pay, particularly during periods of staff shortages or high demand. Taking on extra shifts or working in units that offer shift differentials for nights or weekends can greatly boost your overall income.
5. Explore Travel Nursing or Per Diem Work
Travel nursing and per diem work offer flexibility and the potential for higher pay through short-term contracts. Travel nurses often earn more, especially in high-demand areas or specialties, and may also receive benefits like housing stipends. Per diem work allows for a higher hourly rate while working on an as-needed basis.
6. Negotiate Your Salary
Whether you are starting a new job or have been in your position for some time, don't hesitate to negotiate your salary. Research the average salary for your role in your area, factoring in your experience and any certifications. Use this data to make a strong case for a raise, highlighting your value through performance and specialized skills.
7. Consider Relocating to Higher-Paying Areas
Where you work can have a significant impact on your earnings. States like California, New York, and Massachusetts typically offer higher pay due to higher living costs and demand for healthcare services. You might also consider working in rural or underserved areas where nurses are in greater demand and often receive higher compensation.