Registered Nurses Salary in Asheville, NC
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Asheville, NC
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In Asheville, North Carolina, the typical registered nurse earns a median annual salary of $80,720, which is slightly below the national median for this occupation at $93,600. When compared to the local area's median household income of $69,236, it becomes evident that registered nurses in Asheville earn significantly more than the average household. This disparity highlights the relatively high earning potential within the nursing profession in the region, positioning it as a lucrative career choice compared to other occupations available locally.
For entry-level registered nurses in Asheville, earnings generally start closer to the 10th percentile at $62,770 annually, reflecting limited experience and possibly less specialized roles or part-time work schedules. In contrast, experienced nurses can earn up to the 90th percentile, which stands at $110,860 per year, due to factors such as seniority, advanced certifications, leadership roles, and specialization in high-demand areas like critical care or surgical nursing. The considerable difference between these earnings levels underscores the importance of experience and specialized skills within the nursing field, further incentivizing professional development and career advancement for those seeking higher salaries.
Salary percentile breakdown
Asheville economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Registered Nurses make per hour in Asheville?
The median hourly wage for Registered Nurses in Asheville, NC is $38.81, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $56.89 or more per hour.
Is Asheville above or below average for Registered Nurses salaries?
The median Registered Nurses salary in Asheville, NC is 13.8% below the national median of $93,600. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Registered Nurses in Asheville?
Entry-level Registered Nurses (10th percentile) earn around $62,770 per year in Asheville, NC. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $75,870.