ADN Nurse Salary Guide

The median annual registered nurse (RN) salary is $86,070 as of May 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). While the BLS does not differentiate between RNs that have an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) versus a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN), ZipRecruiter.com reports an average annual salary of $77,001 or $37 per hour for ADN Nurses. 

Via ZipRecruiter.com

ADN nurses earn more for years of experience. There is currently no data on ADN versus BSN pay by years of experience. However, according to Payscale.com as of February 2023, registered nurses earn the following, 

• Less than 1 years of experience earn an average hourly salary of $28.89
• 1-4 years of experience earn an average hourly salary of $30.49
• 5-9 years of experience earns an average hourly salary of $33.47
• 10-19 years of experience earns an average hourly salary of $35.99
• 20+ years of experience earns an average hourly salary of $38.01

RNs can work in a variety of locations. The highest-paying nurses work for the government. According to the BLS, RNs earned the following annual salaries,

• Government: $99,840
• Hospitals; state, local, and private: $88,430
• Ambulatory healthcare services: $81,230
• Nursing and residential care facilities: $79,280
• Education services: state, local, and private: $71,550

If you’re interested in increasing your earnings potential as an ADN RN you have several good options. The MOST important way to increase your earning potential is to continue your education and earn your BSN degree. Other ways to increase your salary include: 

Negotiation

This might be uncomfortable for some ADN RNs but is one of the most effective methods of getting an increase in pay.  

ADN RNs with experience and increased levels of training will find an easier time negotiating for a higher salary. The key to an effective negotiation is to do your research. Ensure you know what other facilities in your area are paying for people with your qualifications. 

Overtime

 ADN RNs who work overtime are entitled to increased pay for their additional work hours. Generally, this is considered time-and-a-half pay.  In most cases, this means working over 40 hours a week. 

The Federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requires that all "non-exempt" employees receive overtime pay equal to one-and-one-half times their regular rate of pay for every hour over 40 hours worked during a work week. 

Per Diem or Contract Employment

Per diem and contract employees earn a higher wage than staff members. They are paid a premium for working less desirable shifts and having shifts canceled at any given time. 

Per diem employees are not offered guaranteed hours so remember that a paycheck most likely will not be consistent. This might not be a viable option for individuals with families who need a steady paycheck. 

Shift Differential

 ADN RNs may have an opportunity to earn more income without increasing the number of hours they work. A shift differential means making increased per-hour pay for working nights, weekends, or holidays.

Hazard Pay

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, hazard pay means “additional pay for performing a hazardous duty or work involving physical hardship.” It may also include work duty that causes “extreme physical discomfort and distress.” 

Becoming an ADN-educated nurse is a great way to earn a living. However, it is important to consider advancing your education once securing a nursing position. It is important to remember that many hospitals are requiring nurses to have a BSN degree, especially Magnet hospitals. 

Overall, ADN degrees are more affordable than BSN degrees which means earning potential is greater because the degree cost is lower. ADN nurses can earn a degree in two to three years, faster than BSN degrees. 

• Is becoming an ADN worth it?

  • Earning an ADN degree is a great starting point for becoming a nurse. A degree can be earned in two to three years and the cost is significantly less than a BSN degree program. 

• Where do ADN nurses get paid the most?

  • According to ZipRecruiter.com, the highest-paying ADN nurses are in Washington earning an annual salary of $96,431 or $46.36 per hour.  

• Do BSN nurses make more money than ADN nurses?

  • Historically, BSN-prepared nurses earn a higher salary than ADN nurses. Most major healthcare systems, especially trauma, and Magnet hospitals, will only hire BSN-educated nurses.