Stacker story: highest-paying metros for nurses

Explore top areas in all 50 states where working in nursing pays more than other occupations.


The Highest-Paying Metro for Nurses in Every State (2026 Update)

As job demand rises, see which roles pay best for the education they require.


How Long it Takes to Get 7 Healthcare Degrees — And How Much They Pay

Discover the locations with the highest earning potential for a nursing career in 2024.


Top 5 Highest Paying Staff RN Locations in 2024

University Place

Ellensburg, Washington pays Travel Acute Care Nurses the most, averaging $2,382 per week, followed by Snoqualmie, Washington ($2,243) and Mount Vernon, Washington ($2,239). Ellensburg, Washington also has the highest ceiling, with max weekly pay reaching $2,634. For comparison, the Washington average for Travel Acute Care Nurses is $2,253 per week — Ellensburg, Washington pays 6% more.

Vancouver, Washington pays Acute Care Nurses the most, averaging $46 per hour, followed by Gig Harbor, Washington ($44) and Issaquah, Washington ($44). Vancouver, Washington also has the highest ceiling, with max hourly pay reaching $60. For comparison, the Washington average for Registered Nurses is $76 per hour — Vancouver, Washington pays 39% less.

Idaho Falls

Fort Collins

Lafayette

Tacoma

Olympia

Silverdale

Registered Nurses who provide direct patient care, administer medications, coordinate treatment plans, and monitor patient conditions across diverse healthcare settings including hospitals, clinics and outpatient centers, home health and hospice, schools and public health settings, travel nursing assignments, corrections, long-term acute care, and non-bedside roles such as case management, informatics, education, and telehealth.

Acute Care Nurse Salary Guide: University Place, WA

How Acute Care Nurse Salaries in University Place Compare to Other Cities

Acute Care Nurse Career Guide

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