Registered Nurses Salary in Waterbury, CT

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Waterbury-Shelton, CT

Median annual salary $100,310 +7.2% vs national
Median hourly $48.23
10th percentile $79,400
90th percentile $130,620
Employed locally 3,100
National median $93,600

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    In Waterbury, CT, registered nurses (RNs) earn a median annual salary of $100,310, which is notably higher than the national median of $93,600 for this occupation. This reflects the local demand and value placed on healthcare professionals in the area. When compared to the local household income, with an area median of $86,365, RNs typically earn significantly more than the average resident, highlighting their critical role within the community's economy and health services infrastructure.

    The earnings potential for registered nurses in Waterbury varies depending on experience level, starting from lower percentiles at entry-level positions to higher earning brackets for seasoned professionals. Entry-level RNs are likely to earn closer to the 10th percentile salary of $79,400, whereas more experienced nurses can see salaries rising toward or exceeding the 75th percentile mark of $114,100 and even reaching up to the 90th percentile at $130,620. This substantial difference in earnings is driven by factors such as years of experience, advanced certifications, specialization within nursing fields, and roles that may include management responsibilities or require additional skills like leadership and complex decision-making capabilities. These elements collectively influence a nurse’s career trajectory and earning potential over time.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $79,400
    25th
    $86,560
    50th (median)
    $100,310
    75th
    $114,100
    90th
    $130,620

    Waterbury economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.60% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $86,365 2023 • Census ACS
    Registered Nurses salary vs area income 116% Median Registered Nurses salary is 16% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Registered Nurses make per hour in Waterbury?

    The median hourly wage for Registered Nurses in Waterbury, CT is $48.23, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $64.85 or more per hour.

    Is Waterbury above or below average for Registered Nurses salaries?

    The median Registered Nurses salary in Waterbury, CT is 7.2% above 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 Waterbury?

    Entry-level Registered Nurses (10th percentile) earn around $79,400 per year in Waterbury, CT. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $86,560.