In New Orleans, LA, Registered Nurses earn a median of $81,400 a year — about 14% below the U.S. median of $94,480. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #35.
What that pay is worth in New Orleans
Local prices run 26 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $86,470 salary stretches further than the sticker number — about $328,783 in national-average buying power.
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in New Orleans?
A typical New Orleans home runs about $296,400 — 3.4 times the average Registered Nurse salary, manageable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,211/mo takes roughly 17% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Registered Nurse pay ladder in New Orleans
Entry-level (10th percentile) Registered Nurses earn about $63,870; the top 10% reach $107,890 — a $44,020 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 New Orleans
New Orleans employs roughly 9,620 Registered Nurses. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare New Orleans with other cities
See the full Registered Nurse salary by city ranking to weigh New Orleans 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 New Orleans?
The average Registered Nurse in New Orleans, LA earns about $86,470 per year, 8.5% below the national average of $94,480.
What is the take-home pay for Registered Nurses in New Orleans after taxes?
After federal and LA taxes, this $86,470 salary is worth about $67,453 a year - roughly $5,621 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 22%.
What do the highest-paid Registered Nurses earn in New Orleans?
The top 10% of Registered Nurses in New Orleans earn about $107,890 a year, versus about $63,870 for the bottom 10%.
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in New Orleans?
A typical New Orleans home runs about $296,400 - roughly 3.4x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.