In Seattle, WA, Registered Nurses earn a median of $109,700 a year — about 16% above the U.S. median of $94,480. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #11.
What that pay is worth in Seattle
Local prices run 111 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $115,170 salary buys less than it looks — about $103,633 in national-average buying power.
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in Seattle?
A typical Seattle home runs about $912,100 — 7.9 times the average Registered Nurse salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,998/mo takes roughly 21% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Registered Nurse pay ladder in Seattle
Entry-level (10th percentile) Registered Nurses earn about $85,720; the top 10% reach $142,480 — a $56,760 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 Seattle
Seattle employs roughly 38,500 Registered Nurses. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Seattle with other cities
See the full Registered Nurse salary by city ranking to weigh Seattle 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 Seattle?
The average Registered Nurse in Seattle, WA earns about $115,170 per year, 21.9% above the national average of $94,480.
What is the take-home pay for Registered Nurses in Seattle after taxes?
After federal and WA taxes, this $115,170 salary is worth about $89,852 a year - roughly $7,487 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 22%.
What do the highest-paid Registered Nurses earn in Seattle?
The top 10% of Registered Nurses in Seattle earn about $142,480 a year, versus about $85,720 for the bottom 10%.
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in Seattle?
A typical Seattle home runs about $912,100 - roughly 7.9x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.