As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Registered Nurse (RN), Level 3 in the United States is $97,100 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $47.
However, a Registered Nurse (RN), Level 3's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Registered Nurse (RN), Level 3'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 Registered Nurse (RN), Level 3'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:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Registered Nurse - Staff | 0-2 years | $73,653 |
| Intermediate Registered Nurse - Staff | 2-4 years | $83,483 |
| Registered Nurse (RN), Level 3 | 4-7 years | $97,034 |
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 Registered Nurse (RN), Level 3s. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Leadership | 5.16% |
| Acute Care | 2.95% |
| Home Care | 2.1% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Innovation
|
$103,897 |
7%
|
|
Communication Skills
|
$101,955 |
5%
|
|
Accountability
|
$100,984 |
4%
|
|
Effective Communication
|
$100,984 |
4%
|
|
Pediatric
|
$100,984 |
4%
|
|
Infection Control
|
$100,013 |
3%
|
Understanding how a Registered Nurse (RN), Level 3'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 January 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Registered Nurse (RN), Level 3, 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 | 67% |
| Director Intensive Care Unit Operations | $154,200 | 59% |
Salaries for a Registered Nurse (RN), Level 3 can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $93,466 in 2023 to around $90,943 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Registered Nurse (RN), Level 3 salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $93,466 |
| 2024 | $91,637 |
| 2025 | $90,943 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Registered Nurse (RN), Level 3 job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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While the average salary for a Level 3 Registered Nurse (RN) ranges from $90,500 to $115,900, certain advanced practice roles, like certified registered nurse anesthetists, can earn around $200,000 annually. These positions require specialized training and skills, contributing to their higher earning potential compared to standard RN roles.
The highest pay for a Registered Nurse (RN) Level 3 is $115,900. This salary reflects the upper range for RNs, with a minimum salary of $90,500 and a mid-range salary of $101,600. Various nursing specialties can offer competitive salaries, but Level 3 RNs stand out with their earning potential.
A Level 4 Registered Nurse typically holds advanced responsibilities, often serving as an Assistant Director of Nursing in various capacities such as Clinical, Management, or Education. In terms of salary, Level 3 RNs earn between $90,500 and $115,900, with a median salary of $101,600, reflecting the increasing expertise and leadership roles associated with higher nursing levels.
The lowest paid nurse is typically a nursing assistant, earning around $36,220 annually. In contrast, registered nurses (RNs) at Level 3 have a salary range with a minimum of $90,500, a mid-level salary of $101,600, and a maximum of $115,900, reflecting the higher qualifications and responsibilities associated with the role.
The first level of Registered Nurse (RN) in the USA typically refers to entry-level positions. These RNs provide essential patient care, administer medications, and assist with daily activities. Salary for a Level 3 RN ranges from $90,500 to $115,900, with a mid-salary of $101,600, reflecting their experience and responsibilities in healthcare settings.
Registered Nurse (RN) levels typically include RN Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. For RN Level 3, the salary ranges from a minimum of $90,500 to a mid-point of $101,600, with a maximum of $115,900. Other nursing levels include Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN).
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
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