In Indianapolis, IN, Registered Nurses earn a median of $80,290 a year — about 15% below the U.S. median of $94,480. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #39.
What that pay is worth in Indianapolis
Local prices run 96 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $85,580 salary stretches further than the sticker number — about $89,429 in national-average buying power.
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in Indianapolis?
A typical Indianapolis home runs about $207,000 — 2.4 times the average Registered Nurse salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,112/mo takes roughly 16% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Registered Nurse pay ladder in Indianapolis
Entry-level (10th percentile) Registered Nurses earn about $62,930; the top 10% reach $103,710 — a $40,780 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 Indianapolis
Indianapolis employs roughly 26,510 Registered Nurses. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Indianapolis with other cities
See the full Registered Nurse salary by city ranking to weigh Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis?
The average Registered Nurse in Indianapolis, IN earns about $85,580 per year, 9.4% below the national average of $94,480.
What is the take-home pay for Registered Nurses in Indianapolis after taxes?
After federal and IN taxes, this $85,580 salary is worth about $66,510 a year - roughly $5,542 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 22%.
What do the highest-paid Registered Nurses earn in Indianapolis?
The top 10% of Registered Nurses in Indianapolis earn about $103,710 a year, versus about $62,930 for the bottom 10%.
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in Indianapolis?
A typical Indianapolis home runs about $207,000 - roughly 2.4x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.