Can RNs really make this much?

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Ok, so I started a CNA program this week as I want to work as a CNA while completing my direct-entry MSN program. My instructor last night whom's a RN/CNS and administrator at Kaiser, said that she has RNs on her floor making over $50/hour after their first year. I know nursing can be lucrative, but I was surprised at this type of earning potential after a year. I'm in Los Angeles so I know Cali can make more than other states, but this really shocked me. No wonder programs are impacted everywhere. I know (at least I hope) most people get into the profession for reasons other than money (although this helps and shouldn't be ignored), but I can see how it could attract those looking to make an excellent salary.

"Like it or not, the cost of living influences your paycheck. In California where homes are more expensive, nurses earn more to cover those costs of living than nurses in Arkansaswhere the cost of living is very modest.

This is simple economics. Where you live and how much it costs to live there influences your earning potential."

This is mostly true but doesn't explain why nurses in Iowa are consistently the worst paid. We donto have the cheapest cost of living but get the worst pay. I think the Medicare reimbursement has a lot to do with the low wages. There is definitely a trickle down effect to nursing.

There's a flaew in every logical concept. Iowa is probably the worse nursing state in the country.

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i disagree...high cost of living or not with 6 kids i need all i can get .......

you're sure to make an adequate ammount to live modestly comfortable as an rn., assuming you don't live in iowa or florida.

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I wonder if we will ever get high-speed rail threading throughout the entire country. If so, I would be willing to commute to California from a nearby state and rake in that income while enjoying a lower cost of living in another state.

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I wonder if we will ever get high-speed rail threading throughout the entire country. If so, I would be willing to commute to California from a nearby state and rake in that income while enjoying a lower cost of living in another state.

Before that ever happens, one can fly to Cali for the 3 work day week, then fly back to AZ,NV, wherever. The biggest obstacle is to find cheap flights that would make something like that worth it. I don't mind flying so I would not mind that set up, thing is I have a family.:smokin:

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In Central NJ with 4 years and pediatric certification about $35 on days. Cleared around 80K with some OT last year. Wind up working about an an extra 8-12 a week most of the year. Good benefits for me and the husband--full medical/dental/life insurance-$150 biweekly before taxes. Patient ratio not great but I don't think it's better anywhere else. Work every third weekend and every other holiday although people will gladly take a holiday if someone will work it. I'd rather have time and a half than a holiday any day!

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In my opinion, California is the best place to live and work. The best pay, best climate, best working conditions (remember, it's the only state with the fixed ratios). I bet that even with the higher cost of living after all my expenses I have more money in my pocket left than a nurse somewhere in Illinois with a similar lifestyle. Remember, although the housing cost may vary from state to state, all other expenses are pretty much the same (cars, travel, food, gas, clothing, electronics, etc.). And with the recent housing market crash owning/renting a house is California got more affordable. I get paid over $42/hr (with the differential) and rent my one bedroom apartment for only $655/month. Love this state! :up:

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I wonder if we will ever get high-speed rail threading throughout the entire country. If so, I would be willing to commute to California from a nearby state and rake in that income while enjoying a lower cost of living in another state.

Once that HSR goes through, salaries may equalize a bit cuz everyone else will have the same idea.

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