New Jersey State Nurses Association (NJSNA): As the voice of over 110,000 registered nurses and advanced practice nurses, NJSNA advocates for the nursing profession and the advancement of quality healthcare in New Jersey.
Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing
By: All Nursing Schools Staff
What salary can BSN nurses earn in New Jersey?
New Jersey may not rank in the top five states for pay or employment for BSN-registered nurses according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a poor choice to pursue a nursing career there. Here’s a breakdown of factors to consider:
Pros
- Competitive salaries relative to cost of living:
- While New Jersey might not top the charts nationally for nursing salaries, its wages are generally competitive. Nurses in New Jersey often earn more than the national average, though this varies depending on the city and healthcare facility.
- Proximity to major healthcare markets:
- New Jersey’s location near New York City and Philadelphia offers opportunities to work in metropolitan areas with high demand for healthcare professionals. Nurses can benefit from commuting options while residing in New Jersey.
- Education and advancement opportunities:
- The state has a strong network of nursing schools and advanced degree programs, making it easier for BSN nurses to pursue further education and career advancement. New Jersey also promotes continuing education, which is valuable for professional growth.
- Legislative support:
- The state has been supportive of safe staffing legislation and nursing workforce development, creating a positive working environment.
Cons
- Cost of living:
- New Jersey has a higher cost of living compared to the national average. Even if salaries are competitive, housing and living expenses might offset the benefits.
- Competition:
- Proximity to major healthcare hubs may create more competition for certain nursing roles, particularly at top-tier hospitals or specialty units.
- Demand variability:
- While demand for nurses is strong overall, it may vary by region within the state. Urban areas like Newark and Jersey City might have higher demand compared to rural regions.
In this Article
Quick view | Salary statistics | Factors affecting salaries in NJ | Earning a BSN | What’s next? | Cost of living considerations | Nurse resources in NJ
Snapshot of BSN RNs in New Jersey
New Jersey has approximately 82,950 people employed as RNs says the BLS, which amounts to almost 20 people working as RNs for every 1,000 people that live in the state. This number could also include ADN-prepared RNs besides BSN-prepared RNs. The median wage per hour is $49, considerably higher than the national average of $45. The forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 4.9%.
New Jersey can be a good state to become a BSN-registered nurse if you value proximity to major healthcare centers, opportunities for professional growth and competitive salaries. New Jersey offers a robust job market for BSN-prepared registered nurses, with approximately 140,800 nursing positions statewide, said the New Jersey State Government website.
Here are five top employers for BSN-prepared RNs in New Jersey:
- Hackensack Meridian Health, Hackensack, Paramus and other locations:
- A leading not-for-profit health care organization offering a comprehensive network of healthcare services, including 17 hospitals and over 500 patient care locations.
- Atlantic Health System, Morristown, Summit and other locations:
- A non-profit health care system comprising multiple hospitals and health care facilities, known for high-quality patient care and a supportive work environment.
- RWJBarnabas Health, West Orange, New Brunswick and other cities:
- One of New Jersey’s largest health care systems, encompassing 11 acute care hospitals and numerous outpatient facilities, providing a wide range of services.
- St. Joseph’s Health, Paterson, Totowa, Wayne:
- A regional medical center offering comprehensive health services, including a Level II Trauma Center and specialized nursing opportunities.
- Virtua Health Services, Marlton, Camden and other locations:
- A comprehensive community health care system with hospitals, urgent care centers and outpatient facilities, focusing on providing high-quality care.
BSN nurse salary stats for New Jersey
The median annual salary for registered nurses with a BSN in New Jersey is well above the national median of $93,600, however the cost of living is also higher. Too, salaries may vary based on other factors such as experience, education and employer no matter where you live in the state.
Registered Nurses
10%$81,670
25%$96,110
50%$102,730Median
75%$123,130
90%$130,540
Median Hourly Wage$49
Job growth4.9%
Total Employment95,150
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlantic City-Hammonton, NJ | $99,680 | $78,820 | $117,750 |
| Vineland, NJ | $99,340 | $79,720 | $119,360 |
| Trenton-Princeton, NJ | $97,640 | $80,790 | $120,390 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2034. Actual salaries vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Salary ranges for BSN RNs in New Jersey
The BLS reports that the salary range for BSN RNs in New Jersey spans from $81,670 for the lowest 10% of RNs to $130,540 for the top 10% of RNs per year. This salary range includes entry-level positions as well as senior-level roles, such as nurse educators, nurse informaticists and clinical nurse specialists, and considers whether a nurse has earned a specialty credential, such as in pediatrics or oncology.
One factor that is critical to consider in NJ is the presence of unions, and unions are a significant presence in many New Jersey hospitals, offering support to nurses in terms of wages, working conditions and patient safety standards. Key unions representing nurses in New Jersey include:
- National Nurses United (NNU): Represents nurses in select facilities across the state, focusing on workplace safety and advocacy for universal healthcare.
- Health Professionals and Allied Employees (HPAE): New Jersey’s largest union for healthcare workers, advocating for nurses in areas such as safe staffing, patient care standards and workplace rights.
In New Jersey, some hospitals have attained Magnet status. Magnet status is granted by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to hospitals demonstrating excellence in nursing practice, patient care and innovation. New Jersey hospitals designated with Magnet status include Hackensack University Medical Center, Morristown Medical Center, Jersey Shore University Medical Center and The Valley Hospital.
Employment and pay by New Jersey metro areas
The BLS reports wages and employment by metropolitan areas and they note that large cities logically employ more nurses than smaller cities or towns. In fact, due to New Jersey’s proximity to New York City, the New York-Newark-Jersey City metro area ranks number one in the U.S. for highest employment of RNs, and Camden, as part of the Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington metro area ranks fifth in the U.S. for highest employment of RNs. Here are national metropolitan areas by highest level of employment:
And here are salaries for RNs for the top 10 metro areas in the country, as reported by the BLS:
New Jersey salary growth and job outlook
While the BLS national projection for RN employment is expected to increase by 4.9% through 2034, the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development provides additional insights into the job outlook and salary projections for BSN RNs in the state.
Job growth projections:
- Employment growth: The number of RN positions in New Jersey is expected to grow by 8.6% through 2030, surpassing the national average growth rate of 4.9% for RNs.
Salary projections:
- Current average salary: As of 2023, the average hourly wage for RNs in New Jersey is approximately $45.49, equating to an annual salary of around $94,690, said Nurse Journal.
- Future salary estimates: Projections indicate that, after adjusting for inflation, RNs in New Jersey could earn an average hourly wage of $58.31 by 2033, translating to an annual salary of approximately $121,284
Factors affecting BSN RN salaries in NJ
Several factors may influence the salary a BSN-prepared nurse can earn in New Jersey. Here are three of the most influential:
- An aging population:
- The increasing number of elderly residents in New Jersey is driving demand for healthcare services, thereby boosting the need for RNs, which may drive up salary due to demand.
- Healthcare advancements:
- Ongoing developments in medical technology and patient care practices require a skilled nursing workforce, contributing to job growth and salary level.
- Education:
- BSN-prepared nurses may have access to higher-paying positions and advanced career opportunities compared to those with an associate degree or diploma in nursing.
New Jersey education requirements
To practice as a BSN-educated nurse in New Jersey, candidates must meet specific education, licensure and credentialing requirements. Below is an overview of the process:
Complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Program accreditation:
Attend an accredited BSN program recognized by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). New Jersey offers several accredited nursing schools and programs. - Coursework and clinical hours:
A BSN program typically includes coursework in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, nursing ethics and public health, along with supervised clinical rotations in various healthcare settings.
Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
- After completing the BSN program, graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
- This computer-based exam assesses knowledge and skills essential for entry-level nursing practice.
Apply for New Jersey RN licensure
- Submit an application for licensure by examination (if you’re a new graduate) or licensure by endorsement (if you’re licensed in another state) to the New Jersey Board of Nursing.
- Provide proof of your nursing education (official transcripts sent directly from your nursing program).
- Complete a criminal background check and fingerprinting.
- Pay the correct fees. The initial application fee is typically around $200. Additional costs may include background check fees.
Obtain required certifications
- Many nursing positions in New Jersey require additional certifications depending on the specialty or area of practice. Common certifications include Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Certification for critical care and emergency nurses.
Complete continuing education (CE) requirements
- New Jersey requires RNs to complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years to renew their nursing license. Courses must be approved by an authorized provider and include at least one hour on opioid and addiction-related topics.
Consider advanced credentials (optional)
- BSN-prepared nurses in New Jersey may pursue advanced practice roles, such as becoming a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), by obtaining a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.
Of note:
New Jersey is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) as of 2021. Nurses with a compact license can practice in multiple NLC states without needing additional state-specific licensure.
What do I do after earning a BSN?
If you already hold a BSN in New Jersey and are looking to advance your nursing career, there are several potential paths you can take. These paths often require further education, certification and experience, but they open up higher-paying, specialized and leadership-oriented roles. Here’s a breakdown of possible next steps:
- Earn an MSN: Opens doors to roles as an Nurse Practitioner (NP), Nurse Educator or Nurse Leader.
- Get certified: Pass certification exams for specific roles like NP, CNS, CRNA or Nurse Executive.
- Consider earning a DNP: A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) provides a terminal degree option for those seeking leadership, nurse practitioner or high-impact roles.
Explore non-traditional or emerging roles
Possible titles:
- Nurse informaticist
- Nurse researcher
- Healthcare consultant
- Public health nurse
These roles may give you a chance to work in tech, policy or research, often with the potential to impact health systems, community or population health. Most of these roles require an MSN in a relevant field, such as nurse informatics or public health. Experience in technology, research or public health can also be useful. Jobs in informatics and consulting often have higher salaries and offer opportunities for remote work or hybrid roles.
Cost of living considerations in NJ
With its close proximity to New York State and New York City, New Jersey has a higher than the national average cost of living. RentCafe said the state is around 11% higher on average while housing is 30% higher. The majority of major cities are also higher though you can find cities that are just lower than the national average.
| New Jersey City | Cost of living compared to the national average |
|---|---|
| Newark | The cost of living is about 16% above the national average. |
| Middlesex | The cost of living is around 15% higher than the national average. |
| Vineland | The cost of living is 1% lower than the national average |
| Trenton | Trenton’s cost of living is lower than the New Jersey state average. |
Professional groups and associations for New Jersey nurses
Joining organizations offers networking opportunities, professional development resources and advocacy for nurses within New Jersey and nationally. BSN-prepared nurses can consider joining the following state-specific professional associations:
New Jersey League for Nursing (NJLN): A diverse and inclusive organization that welcomes all practicing nurses, nurse educators, nursing students, healthcare professionals and education partners. NJLN focuses on promoting excellence in nursing education to build a strong and diverse nursing workforce.
This guide to salaries for BSN nurses in New Jersey is designed to provide a thorough overview of what to expect pay-wise in this important healthcare field. Consider it a starting point for making smart career choices, negotiating salaries, mapping career advancement and setting achievable goals for your education and professional journey.