While historically nurses tend to earn higher salaries than speech-language pathologists (SLPs), the comparison can vary depending on factors such as geographic location, level of experience, and specific work settings. For example, in 2018, registered nurses in the highest paying states earned an average salary of approximately $106,950, reflecting the demand and responsibilities associated with nursing roles. Conversely, in 2019, the top 25 percent of speech-language pathologists earned an average salary of around $99,380, which is slightly lower but still competitive. It's important to note that salary figures can fluctuate over time and across regions, and individual earnings may differ based on specialization, education, and years of experience. Overall, while nurses generally have higher average salaries, certain specialized or high-demand roles within speech pathology can offer comparable compensation.