Registered Nurses Salary in Columbus, OH

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Columbus, OH

Median annual salary $82,520 -11.8% vs national
Median hourly $39.67
10th percentile $73,180
90th percentile $104,170
Employed locally 26,790
National median $93,600

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Registered Nurses
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    In Columbus, Ohio, registered nurses earn a median annual salary of $82,520, which translates to a median hourly wage of $39.67. This figure is slightly below the national median for registered nurses, which stands at $93,600. When compared to the local median household income in Columbus, which is $79,847, it's evident that registered nurses typically earn more than the average household in the area. With approximately 26,790 registered nurses employed in the region and a local unemployment rate of 4.00%, the earning potential for this occupation remains robust relative to other professions within the city.

    Entry-level registered nurses in Columbus, OH start at salaries around the 10th percentile mark, which is $73,180 annually, while those at the 25th percentile earn approximately $80,170 per year. On the higher end of the spectrum, experienced nurses who fall into the 75th percentile can expect to earn about $101,110 annually, with those in the top 10% earning up to $104,170 a year. The difference in earnings between entry-level and more seasoned registered nurses is driven by factors such as experience, specialization, certifications, and working conditions. Those who have advanced their skills or taken on leadership roles often command higher salaries, reflecting their increased value and contribution within healthcare settings.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $73,180
    25th
    $80,170
    50th (median)
    $82,520
    75th
    $101,110
    90th
    $104,170

    Columbus economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.00% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $79,847 2023 • Census ACS
    Registered Nurses salary vs area income 103% Median Registered Nurses salary is 3% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Registered Nurses make per hour in Columbus?

    The median hourly wage for Registered Nurses in Columbus, OH is $39.67, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $50.85 or more per hour.

    Is Columbus above or below average for Registered Nurses salaries?

    The median Registered Nurses salary in Columbus, OH is 11.8% 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 Columbus?

    Entry-level Registered Nurses (10th percentile) earn around $73,180 per year in Columbus, OH. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $80,170.