In Columbus, OH, Registered Nurses earn a median of $81,020 a year — about 14% below the U.S. median of $94,480. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #37.
What that pay is worth in Columbus
Local prices run 95 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $86,140 salary stretches further than the sticker number — about $90,228 in national-average buying power.
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in Columbus?
A typical Columbus home runs about $234,500 — 2.7 times the average Registered Nurse salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,224/mo takes roughly 17% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Registered Nurse pay ladder in Columbus
Entry-level (10th percentile) Registered Nurses earn about $66,300; the top 10% reach $99,770 — a $33,470 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 Columbus
Columbus employs roughly 24,510 Registered Nurses. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Columbus with other cities
See the full Registered Nurse salary by city ranking to weigh Columbus 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 Columbus?
The average Registered Nurse in Columbus, OH earns about $86,140 per year, 8.8% below the national average of $94,480.
What is the take-home pay for Registered Nurses in Columbus after taxes?
After federal and OH taxes, this $86,140 salary is worth about $67,060 a year - roughly $5,588 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 22%.
What do the highest-paid Registered Nurses earn in Columbus?
The top 10% of Registered Nurses in Columbus earn about $99,770 a year, versus about $66,300 for the bottom 10%.
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in Columbus?
A typical Columbus home runs about $234,500 - roughly 2.7x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.