As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Pediatric Nurse in the United States is $85,500 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $41.
However, a Pediatric Nurse's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Pediatric Nurse's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Pediatric Nurse's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Pediatric Nurse | $83,103 |
| Intermediate Level Pediatric Nurse | $83,648 |
| Senior Level Pediatric Nurse | $86,239 |
| Specialist Level Pediatric Nurse | $90,376 |
| Expert Level Pediatric Nurse | $90,672 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Pediatric Nurses. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Coordination | 4.03% |
| Pediatric Care | 3.84% |
| Staff Development | 1.9% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Acute Care
|
$93,195 |
9%
|
|
Teamwork
|
$92,340 |
8%
|
|
Risk Management
|
$91,485 |
7%
|
|
Staff Development
|
$91,485 |
7%
|
|
Written Communication
|
$91,485 |
7%
|
|
Innovation
|
$88,920 |
4%
|
Understanding how a Pediatric Nurse's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Pediatric Nurse, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Director Mother and Baby Unit | $162,100 | 90% |
| Director Intensive Care Unit Operations | $154,200 | 80% |
| Entry Registered Nurse - Staff | $73,700 | -14% |
| Organ Transplant Coordinator RN | $110,100 | 29% |
Salaries for a Pediatric Nurse can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $209,336 in 2023 to around $203,607 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Pediatric Nurse salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $209,336 |
| 2024 | $211,584 |
| 2025 | $203,607 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Pediatric Nurse and their salaries, click below for more details.
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The salary for Pediatric Nurses typically ranges from $73,400 to $92,700 annually, with a median salary of $80,900. While some nursing positions can pay significantly more, Pediatric Nurses play a crucial role in child healthcare, and their compensation reflects their specialized skills and responsibilities within the nursing field.
The average salary for pediatric nurses in the U.S. is approximately $80,900 annually. Salaries typically range from a minimum of $73,400 to a maximum of $92,700, reflecting variations based on experience, location, and other factors.
The salary data for pediatric nurses indicates a minimum salary of $73,400, a mid-range salary of $80,900, and a maximum salary of $92,700. Among the states, Washington offers competitive pay, with salaries reaching up to $1,647 per week, while Vermont follows closely at $1,640 per week, making them some of the highest-paying states for pediatric nurses.
Being a PICU nurse is certainly worth it. With a salary range from $73,400 to $92,700, the financial rewards are significant. Beyond the pay, PICU nurses play a crucial role in calming nerves, earning trust, and explaining complex information to families. Despite the emotional challenges, the opportunity to care for critically ill children is profoundly rewarding.
Working hours for pediatric nurses vary by location. In most hospitals, they typically work 12-hour shifts, though this can change based on patient demand. Some facilities use a three-shift model, leading to 10-hour shifts. Pediatric nurses earn between $73,400 and $92,700 annually, with a median salary of $80,900.
Pediatric Nurses are increasingly in demand due to the growing focus on children's health. They provide specialized care for infants, children, and adolescents, often working in hospitals or clinics. Salaries for Pediatric Nurses range from $73,400 to $92,700, with a median salary of $80,900, reflecting their essential role in healthcare.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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