Registered Nurses Salary in Portland, ME

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Portland-South Portland, ME

Median annual salary $82,830 -11.5% vs national
Median hourly $39.82
10th percentile $68,920
90th percentile $103,550
Employed locally 6,660
National median $93,600

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    In Portland, ME, registered nurses earn a median annual salary of $82,830, which translates to a median hourly wage of $39.82. This figure is slightly below the national median for registered nurses, which stands at $93,600. When compared to local economic indicators, the earnings of registered nurses in Portland are somewhat lower than the area’s median household income of $88,602. Despite this discrepancy, the local unemployment rate remains low at 2.70%, indicating a relatively stable job market for healthcare professionals in the region.

    Entry-level registered nurses in Portland tend to earn near the 10th percentile, with salaries starting around $68,920 annually. In contrast, experienced nurses who progress through their careers can see substantial increases, reaching up to the 90th percentile at approximately $103,550 per year. The significant salary variation between entry-level and more seasoned professionals is largely driven by factors such as experience, specialized skills, education level, and additional certifications or licenses. As nurses advance in their roles and responsibilities within healthcare settings, they are often rewarded with higher compensation reflective of their increased expertise and value to employers.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $68,920
    25th
    $80,100
    50th (median)
    $82,830
    75th
    $99,980
    90th
    $103,550

    Portland economic context

    Unemployment rate 2.70% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $88,602 2023 • Census ACS
    Registered Nurses salary vs area income 93% Median Registered Nurses salary is 7% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Registered Nurses make per hour in Portland?

    The median hourly wage for Registered Nurses in Portland, ME is $39.82, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $50.98 or more per hour.

    Is Portland above or below average for Registered Nurses salaries?

    The median Registered Nurses salary in Portland, ME is 11.5% 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 Portland?

    Entry-level Registered Nurses (10th percentile) earn around $68,920 per year in Portland, ME. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $80,100.