NCLEX-RN – National Council Licensure Exam (Nursing)
Nursing salary
What people holding this certification commonly earn, the roles it supports, and how it compares with related certifications.
A range, not a promise. Individual pay depends on the factors below.
What changes the number
The same certification pays differently for an analyst, an engineer and a manager.
Pay varies widely between countries and between cities in the same country.
Certifications add the most on top of hands-on work you can show.
Large firms and regulated industries often pay more for certified staff.
Roles that use Nursing
Salary compared with other Medical certifications
| Certification | Level | Typical salary |
|---|---|---|
| NCLEX-RN – National Council Licensure Exam (Nursing) | Advanced | $70K–$120K |
| CPC – Certified Professional Coder | Intermediate | $55K–$80K |
| RDMS – Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | Intermediate | $65K–$95K |
| PANCE – Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam | Advanced | $110K–$150K |
| USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam | Advanced | $200K–$350K (post-residency) |
Nursing salary questions
How much do Nursing certified professionals earn?
Reported pay for Nursing holders is commonly in the $70K–$120K range. Your own pay depends on role, location, employer and total experience.
Which jobs use Nursing?
Common roles include Registered Nurse, Critical Care RN, Nurse Practitioner Trainee, Travel Nurse.
Will Nursing guarantee a pay rise?
No certification guarantees a raise. It tends to help most when you are applying for a new role or a promotion, alongside real experience you can show.