Registered Nurses Salary in Charlotte, NC-SC

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC

Median annual salary $84,780 -9.4% vs national
Median hourly $40.76
10th percentile $67,140
90th percentile $107,280
Employed locally 25,440
National median $93,600

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Registered Nurses
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Charlotte, NC-SC
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    In Charlotte, NC-SC, registered nurses earn a median annual salary of $84,780, which is approximately 9.1% lower than the national median of $93,600 for this occupation. When compared to the local area's median household income of $80,201, the earnings for registered nurses are significantly higher, reflecting their critical role in healthcare. This salary surpasses the typical household income by over 5%, indicating that nursing is a financially rewarding career within the region. Despite a relatively low local unemployment rate of 3.60%, the demand for registered nurses remains robust, as evidenced by an estimated employment figure of 25,440 individuals in this field.

    Entry-level registered nurses in Charlotte typically earn closer to the 10th percentile salary of $67,140 annually, while more experienced professionals may reach or exceed the 90th percentile mark at around $107,280 per year. This substantial pay gap is driven by factors such as years of experience, specialized certifications, and advanced skills acquired over time. Nurses with additional qualifications in areas like critical care or those who hold leadership roles often command higher salaries due to increased responsibilities and expertise. The progression from entry-level positions to more experienced roles underscores the importance of continuous professional development and specialization within nursing careers.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $67,140
    25th
    $78,960
    50th (median)
    $84,780
    75th
    $102,170
    90th
    $107,280

    Charlotte economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.60% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $80,201 2023 • Census ACS
    Registered Nurses salary vs area income 106% Median Registered Nurses salary is 6% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Registered Nurses make per hour in Charlotte?

    The median hourly wage for Registered Nurses in Charlotte, NC-SC is $40.76, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $52.89 or more per hour.

    Is Charlotte above or below average for Registered Nurses salaries?

    The median Registered Nurses salary in Charlotte, NC-SC is 9.4% 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 Charlotte?

    Entry-level Registered Nurses (10th percentile) earn around $67,140 per year in Charlotte, NC-SC. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $78,960.