In Tucson, AZ, Registered Nurses earn a median of $88,030 a year — about 7% below the U.S. median of $94,480. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #25.
What that pay is worth in Tucson
Local prices run 97 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $86,960 salary stretches further than the sticker number — about $89,746 in national-average buying power.
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in Tucson?
A typical Tucson home runs about $242,200 — 2.8 times the average Registered Nurse salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,079/mo takes roughly 15% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Registered Nurse pay ladder in Tucson
Entry-level (10th percentile) Registered Nurses earn about $64,440; the top 10% reach $99,570 — a $35,130 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 Tucson
Tucson employs roughly 8,320 Registered Nurses. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Tucson with other cities
See the full Registered Nurse salary by city ranking to weigh Tucson 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 Tucson?
The average Registered Nurse in Tucson, AZ earns about $86,960 per year, 8.0% below the national average of $94,480.
What is the take-home pay for Registered Nurses in Tucson after taxes?
After federal and AZ taxes, this $86,960 salary is worth about $68,041 a year - roughly $5,670 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 22%.
What do the highest-paid Registered Nurses earn in Tucson?
The top 10% of Registered Nurses in Tucson earn about $99,570 a year, versus about $64,440 for the bottom 10%.
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in Tucson?
A typical Tucson home runs about $242,200 - roughly 2.8x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.