In Albuquerque, NM, Registered Nurses earn a median of $83,380 a year — about 12% below the U.S. median of $94,480. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #32.
What that pay is worth in Albuquerque
Local prices run 96 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $92,350 salary stretches further than the sticker number — about $96,655 in national-average buying power.
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in Albuquerque?
A typical Albuquerque home runs about $266,700 — 2.9 times the average Registered Nurse salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,085/mo takes roughly 14% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Registered Nurse pay ladder in Albuquerque
Entry-level (10th percentile) Registered Nurses earn about $76,320; the top 10% reach $124,800 — a $48,480 spread, moderate for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Registered Nurse job market in Albuquerque
Albuquerque employs roughly 10,070 Registered Nurses. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Albuquerque with other cities
See the full Registered Nurse salary by city ranking to weigh Albuquerque against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Registered Nurses make in Albuquerque?
The average Registered Nurse in Albuquerque, NM earns about $92,350 per year, 2.3% below the national average of $94,480.
What is the take-home pay for Registered Nurses in Albuquerque after taxes?
After federal and NM taxes, this $92,350 salary is worth about $70,603 a year - roughly $5,883 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 24%.
What do the highest-paid Registered Nurses earn in Albuquerque?
The top 10% of Registered Nurses in Albuquerque earn about $124,800 a year, versus about $76,320 for the bottom 10%.
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in Albuquerque?
A typical Albuquerque home runs about $266,700 - roughly 2.9x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.