Neuro RN moving there to become NP

[Xchupa]

Hello,

New to the site, first post. So I'm a neuro/trauma RN with just under three years RN experience, just under two years acute care experience. I'm one semester into my Acute Care NP master's program and intend on moving out to the gorgeous mountains ASAP but I at least have to finish my NP degree first, in about 15 months.

So my question is, should I move out there and start working as an RN right after school and just take my NP boards there or wait until I pass them and go straight to working as an NP, which could be months and months after school is done, but at a much higher income. I was told we may not be able to sit for boards until November of 2017 but we're done with school in mid-April. Currently I'm making just over $29/hr, and from what I've heard pay is lower out in Denver while cost of living I know is insanely expensive compared to Michigan. By the time school is done as an RN I'll be between $30-31/hr due to raise structure at my current hospital. But I'm dying to get out there asap. With experience, what should I expect in terms of pay? Most posts I've seen so far in this regard are either older or for new grads so that's why I'm asking.

If I'm going to take a huge hit, I might as well stay here, but if it's comparable I'd like to get my life started out there. But if the pay gap is too large, it would be better to stay here and save money as I know with NP pay I'll be okay to move out there. I know it's early to ask this question, but a lot is involved with this decision and timing is a factor. Thank you in advance for responses!

[nurse2033, MSN, RN]

With your experience I would expect somewhere around $30 per hour, maybe slightly less. I would follow the jobs. When you are close to to graduation start applying for jobs in both places. It will be easier to move if you have some experience. I guess it depends on whether your priorities are with job or lifestyle. I can't say enough about living in CO, but the career opportunities are probably more limited. Keep your eye on job openings and you can size up the opportunities. Good luck.