Pediatric Registered Nurse Salary

Annual Median: $86,070
Hourly Median: $41.38

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Annual and Hourly Pediatric Registered Nurse U.S. Salary Table:

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
PercentileAnnual SalaryHourly Wage
10th$63,720$30.64
25th$75,990$36.53
Median$86,070$41.38
75th$104,670$50.32
90th$132,680$63.79

Pediatric Registered Nurse Salary Overview (2024)

Pediatric Registered Nurses (Pediatric RNs) play a vital role in the healthcare system, providing specialized care to infants, children, and adolescents. As you consider entering or advancing in this rewarding career, understanding salary expectations is essential. Salary not only impacts your financial stability but also reflects the demand and value placed on pediatric nursing in various healthcare settings.

When evaluating a career as a Pediatric RN, keep in mind the following reasons why salary information is important:

  • Financial Planning: Having a clear understanding of salary ranges helps you plan your finances effectively, ensuring you can meet personal and professional obligations.
  • Career Advancement: Knowing potential salary increases with experience or advanced certifications can guide your career development and motivate you to pursue additional opportunities.
  • Job Market Insights: Salary data can provide insights into job market trends, aiding your decision-making regarding job offers, negotiations, or transitions within the pediatric nursing field.

Career.Guide offers the most recent Pediatric Registered Nurse salary information sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This information is designed to help you make informed decisions about your career path and financial future in pediatric nursing.

Best Schools to become a Pediatric Registered Nurse in U.S. 2024

Chamberlain University-Illinois

Addison, IL

In-State Tuition:$19,117
Out-of-State Tuition:$19,117
Admission Rate:91%
Graduation Rate:38%
Total Enrollment:26,687

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

In-State Tuition:$7,404
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,404
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:49%
Total Enrollment:156,935

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$16,407
Out-of-State Tuition:$16,407
Admission Rate:78%
Graduation Rate:45%
Total Enrollment:101,816

Walden University

Minneapolis, MN

In-State Tuition:$10,552
Out-of-State Tuition:$10,552
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:N/A
Total Enrollment:42,312

Capella University

Minneapolis, MN

In-State Tuition:$14,328
Out-of-State Tuition:$14,328
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:N/A
Total Enrollment:39,727

The University of Texas at Arlington

Arlington, TX

In-State Tuition:$9,206
Out-of-State Tuition:$26,778
Admission Rate:81%
Graduation Rate:53%
Total Enrollment:43,946

How Experience Affects Pediatric Registered Nurse Salary (2024)

As a Pediatric Registered Nurse, your salary can vary significantly based on your level of experience. Here’s how different experience levels may influence your earnings:

  • Entry-Level Pediatric Registered Nurse
    As you begin your career, you may find that entry-level positions typically offer lower salaries. This stage is essential for gaining practical experience and developing clinical skills. Factors that can affect your starting salary include:

    • Geographic location
    • Type of healthcare facility (e.g., hospital, clinic, private practice)
    • Your educational background (e.g., BSN vs. ADN)
  • Mid-Level Pediatric Registered Nurse
    With several years of experience under your belt, you can expect an increase in your salary. At this stage, you are likely taking on more responsibilities and possibly pursuing additional certifications. Key aspects that influence your compensation include:

    • Years of experience in pediatric nursing
    • Specializations (e.g., pediatric oncology, intensive care)
    • Leadership roles or mentorship opportunities within your team
  • Senior-Level Pediatric Registered Nurse
    As a senior Pediatric Registered Nurse, you may see a considerable jump in your salary. In this role, you are often responsible for providing supervision, training, and guidance to less experienced nurses. Factors contributing to your higher salary may include:

    • Advanced certifications and training
    • Administrative responsibilities or managerial roles
    • Influence on policy and care standards within your organization

Understanding the impact of experience on salary can help you set realistic expectations for your career progression and identify opportunities for growth in the field of pediatric nursing.

Pediatric Registered Nurse Salary By Industry (2024)

As a Pediatric Registered Nurse, your salary can vary significantly based on the sector you choose to work in. Here are some key industries where Pediatric Registered Nurses are in demand and how they may impact your earnings:

  • Hospitals: Working in acute care settings like pediatric wards or emergency departments often provides competitive salaries. Large hospitals may offer more structured salary scales, benefits, and opportunities for overtime or on-call pay.

  • Outpatient Clinics: In this sector, Pediatric Registered Nurses may experience different salary ranges compared to hospital roles. These positions often offer less intensity and more regular hours, which might appeal to those seeking work-life balance, though compensation can vary based on the clinic's size and services offered.

  • Home Healthcare: If you decide to work in home health, you might find that the pay structure is more flexible but can depend heavily on the number of patients you care for and the region. This environment allows for personalized care but may have fewer traditional benefits.

  • Schools: A Pediatric Registered Nurse in the educational system typically sees a different salary landscape. While the pay may be lower than in clinical settings, many find the hours and vacation time favorable, aligning well with family schedules.

  • Public Health: Nurses focusing on public health initiatives may find meaningful work in community settings. Salary in this area can vary; while it may be lower than in hospitals, the role often emphasizes preventive care, education, and outreach, which can be rewarding in non-monetary ways.

  • Research and Academia: If you transition into teaching or research, your earnings might be influenced by the institution where you work. While these roles often come with a lower salary compared to clinical positions, they may offer substantial job satisfaction and the chance to shape future nurses.

  • Specialized Pediatric Facilities: Positions in children's hospitals or specialized care facilities frequently command higher salaries, given the advanced skills required in caring for specific pediatric populations. Here, the complexity of care and your level of expertise may significantly impact your earning potential.

Understanding how the industry you choose can affect your salary trajectory is critical for planning your career as a Pediatric Registered Nurse.

Factors That Affect Pediatric Registered Nurse Salary (2024)

Several elements impact the salary of a Pediatric Registered Nurse. Understanding these factors can help you navigate your career path more effectively.

  • Education: The level of education you attain significantly influences your salary. While a diploma in nursing may qualify you for entry-level positions, obtaining an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) often opens doors to higher-paying roles and advanced opportunities.

  • Certifications: Pursuing additional certifications, such as Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) or Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN), can enhance your qualifications and make you a more valuable asset to employers, often resulting in a higher salary.

  • Specialized Skills: Proficiency in specialized areas such as pediatric critical care, neonatal care, or developmental disabilities can differentiate you from other candidates and lead to better compensation. Specialized skills are often in high demand, reflecting directly in salary offers.

  • Company Size: The size and type of the healthcare facility can also play a role in salary variations. Large hospitals often have more resources and may offer higher salaries compared to smaller practices or clinics. Additionally, academic medical centers may provide competitive salaries, as they typically seek highly qualified professionals to support their advanced services.

  • Geographic Location: The region where you practice can greatly influence your salary. Urban areas or regions with a high cost of living may offer higher salaries compared to rural areas, which might be offset by lower living expenses.

  • Experience Level: Your years of experience in pediatric nursing are significant factors in determining your salary. Generally, as you gain more experience, your earning potential increases due to the greater expertise and knowledge you bring to your practice.

  • Work Environment: The specific setting in which you work — such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools, or community health organizations — can affect your salary. Certain environments may offer incentives or bonuses that enhance overall compensation.

  • Union Membership: If you are part of a nursing union, salary scales and benefits agreements may impact your earnings. Unions often negotiate better salaries and benefits for their members based on collective bargaining agreements.

By considering these factors, you can better understand the potential salary landscape for a Pediatric Registered Nurse and make informed decisions about your career.

Pediatric Registered Nurse Salary Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • What factors influence the salary of a Pediatric Registered Nurse?
    Several factors can affect your salary as a Pediatric Registered Nurse, including your level of education, years of experience, geographic location, type of healthcare facility, and any additional certifications or specializations you may hold.

  • Do Pediatric Registered Nurses earn more in certain states?
    Yes, salary levels can vary significantly from state to state. States with higher costs of living or a greater demand for healthcare professionals may offer higher salaries for Pediatric Registered Nurses.

  • How does experience impact my salary as a Pediatric Registered Nurse?
    Generally, as you gain more experience in the field, your salary can increase. Entry-level positions may offer lower starting salaries, while those with several years of experience or advanced roles may earn a higher salary.

  • Can obtaining additional certifications enhance my earning potential?
    Yes, obtaining additional certifications in specialized areas of pediatric care or advanced practice can enhance your earning potential and make you more competitive in the job market.

  • What types of healthcare facilities typically employ Pediatric Registered Nurses?
    Pediatric Registered Nurses are typically employed in a variety of settings, including children's hospitals, general hospitals with pediatric units, outpatient clinics, and private practices specializing in pediatric care.

  • Are there opportunities for advancement that can increase my salary?
    Yes, there are numerous career advancement opportunities available for Pediatric Registered Nurses, such as moving into leadership, management, or specialized nursing roles that often come with increased salaries.

  • Is it possible to work part-time and still earn a competitive salary as a Pediatric Registered Nurse?
    While part-time positions may offer lower overall earnings compared to full-time roles, Pediatric Registered Nurses in part-time positions can still earn competitive hourly wages depending on their location and experience.

  • How do benefits and bonuses impact overall compensation?
    Beyond base salary, benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and bonuses can significantly enhance your overall compensation package as a Pediatric Registered Nurse.

  • What resources can I use to learn more about Pediatric Registered Nurse salaries in my area?
    You can explore salary information through professional nursing organizations, government labor statistics, job boards with salary data, and networking with other healthcare professionals in your area for insights specific to your location.