What Is the Typical RN Salary in New Hampshire?

Skilled nurses are integral to our healthcare system. Working in facilities such as hospitals, public and private practices, retirement homes, schools, and government agencies, nurses play an essential role in our communities. For students interested in pursuing a healthcare career, understanding the typical registered nursing (RN) salary in New Hampshire and the associated education pathway is a valuable first step. 

Investing in a well-rounded foundational degree, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), can be a great way for prospective students to set themselves up for success. By taking the time to build both theoretical and practical skills at the beginning of their career, graduates can equip themselves with the skills they need for both advanced degree programs and a wider range of nursing roles. 

What Do Registered Nurses Do?

RNs provide direct patient care. Often working on the front line in a wide variety of healthcare facilities, RNs dedicate a significant amount of time to providing bedside care. Depending on their level of education and certifications, nurses may handle tasks such as:

• Assessing patients
• Administering medication, providing treatment, and performing minor procedures
• Monitoring patients’ health and healthcare progress
• Recording results and ensuring proper patient documentation
• Providing education and support to the community
• Providing education and support to patients and their families 

Factors such as the type of facility, whether the setting is rural or urban, and public or private practice can influence an RN’s salary in New Hampshire and their day-to-day duties. Nurses can also invest in graduate-level education, further specializations, or certifications to reach their goals. 

How to Become a Registered Nurse

In the United States, prospective RNs can pursue either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a BSN before completing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and seeking licensure within their state. 

An ADN is quicker, usually requiring two years of full-time study, whereas a BSN usually requires four years of full-time study. While an ADN can allow nurses to enter the workforce sooner, choosing a shorter program can mean a less comprehensive education and potentially fewer employment options. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), 72% of employers prefer to hire candidates with a BSN. By investing in a BSN program, graduates can build a more well-rounded foundation in nursing and set themselves up for career progression.

Employment Demand for Registered Nurses

Nurses of all levels are in high demand nationwide. The Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) projects an 8% shortage of RNs nationwide until 2028. Sources cite factors such as a shortage of nursing school faculty; the rising number of nurses reaching retirement age; and issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic, including nursing stress and insufficient staffing.

Amid these changes, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that overall RN employment is projected to rise by 5% between 2024 and 2034. This growth is faster than the average for all occupations and accounts for about 189,100 openings each year over the decade, providing ample opportunity for nursing graduates. Additionally, the BLS reported that the median annual salary of certified RNs with a bachelor’s degree was $93,600 as of May 2024.

Registered Nurse Salary in New Hampshire

The salary and career outlook for nurses can vary due to multiple factors. While factors such as level of education, workplace experience, and private or public practice can also influence their salary, location can be a key consideration for many nurses. According to the BLS, the typical annual RN salary in New Hampshire was $89,410 as of May 2023. 

For those seeking employment in New Hampshire, several opportunities are available in both metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. As of May 2023, the West Central-Southwest area of New Hampshire reported the second-highest concentration of jobs in the country. While the state isn’t the highest paid in the country, mean annual salaries for nurses in New Hampshire exceed the national 50th percentile.

Career Advancement for Nurses

Becoming an RN is the entry point to a fulfilling career in nursing. Nurses are looking for career advancement options that may increase their salaries by completing an advanced degree, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). 

In addition to higher education, nurses can pursue advanced certifications and licensure as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). Becoming an APRN can involve roles such as nurse practitioner (NPs), clinical nurse specialist (CNS), certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA), and certified nurse midwife (CNM). As of May 2024, the BLS reported a median annual salary of $132,050 for these roles. 

Become a Nursing Leader as a Registered Nurse in New Hampshire

Completing higher education is an essential part of becoming a nurse, making the right program a key decision in many students’ careers. By choosing a BSN, nurses can open doors to competitive graduate degree programs, career advancement, and a more desirable RN salary in New Hampshire. 

For nurses ready to begin their healthcare career, the BSN program from New England College can be a great first step. An innovative program that can be completed in as little as 32 months and that builds critical hands-on experience through immersive clinical hours, the BSN was designed to produce capable and well-rounded nursing graduates.

Discover how you can make a positive impact with a fulfilling career in nursing. 

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