Salary Guide 2025

Registered Nurse Salary in Chicago

Average salary range: $56,000 - $87,500 per year

Salary Breakdown

25th Percentile

$63K

Median

$70K

75th Percentile

$79K

Top Earners

$88K+

$56K$70K (median)$88K

Factors That Affect Registered Nurse Salary in Chicago

Experience Level

Entry-level: -20%, Mid-level: baseline, Senior: +30-50%, Lead/Manager: +50-80%

Company Size & Type

Big Tech & Finance typically pay 20-40% above market. Startups may offer equity compensation.

Cost of Living

Chicago has a specific cost of living that impacts salary expectations compared to other cities.

Skills That Increase Registered Nurse Salary

Patient Care
Electronic Health Records
Medication Administration
IV Therapy
Vital Signs
BLS/ACLS
Care Planning
Patient Education
Wound Care
Critical Thinking

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