Registered Nurse Salary in Boston
2026 compensation data for Registered Nurse positions in Boston, MA. Ranges from $65,000 (entry-level) to $153,000 (senior). Median: $100,000.
Median (Mid)
$100,000
$48.08/hr
vs National
+3%
US: $97,000
COL Index
145
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$153,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $65,000 | $76,000 | $89,000 | $36.54/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $85,000 | $100,000 | $118,000 | $48.08/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $112,000 | $130,000 | $153,000 | $62.5/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Boston
A mid-level registered nurse earning $100,000 in Boston has the same buying power as $69,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 145).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Registered Nurse Salaries in Boston
The median registered nurse salary in Boston, MA is $100,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 3% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 145 (national average = 100), Boston offers a high cost of living that partially offsets the salary premium.
Entry-level registered nurses in Boston can expect to earn between $65,000 and $89,000 (about $36.54/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $153,000 ($153K annually, or about $73.56/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Boston.
Frequently Asked Questions: Registered Nurse Salary in Boston
What is the average Registered Nurse salary in Boston?+
The average Registered Nurse salary in Boston is $100,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $76,000 and senior-level pay reaches $130,000.
How much does an entry-level registered nurse make in Boston?+
Entry-level registered nurses in Boston earn between $65,000 and $89,000, with a median of $76,000 per year (about $36.54/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Registered Nurse in Boston?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Registered Nurse in Boston earns roughly $36.54/hour at entry-level, $48.08/hour at mid-level, and $62.5/hour at senior-level.
Is the Registered Nurse salary in Boston higher than the US average?+
Yes — Registered Nurse salaries in Boston are about 3% higher than the US national median of $97,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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