Rural Nursing - Higher or Lower Pay?

[jkmk]

I'm curious, in general is rural RN pay higher or lower than in suburban/metro areas? I could see it being lower because the hospital may have less patients and endowments bringing money in, but I could also see it being higher because they need to pay more to attract skilled workers to the area. I know the rate will vary from area to area, but I was wondering what the trend seems to be.

Thanks!

[elprup, BSN, RN]

Mine much lower. Wish they thought like you.

[GooeyRN, ADN, BSN, CNA, LPN, RN]

lower

[jkmk]

Thanks for your replies :)

[ANNIENURSEANGEL]

I get paid 22.50/hr. You also have to consider, that they pay for medical coverage. I also have a retirement through the state after being vested,(PERS). I pay nothing into that. I have been there for over 4 years. I am 70 miles from the nearest walmart. My hospital as 11 acute care beds, 28 LTC beds, and 2 room ER. I am putting in my dues, then I am heading off to a bigger hospital.

[RN Zeke]

Are you still there Annie...Might want to apply for your old position!

[pacnwRN]

I took about a dollar an hour pay cut from a much larger hospital to go rural, but what I save in gas from the commute more then makes up for it. I also have the opportunity to train and work in different areas, and each one you are able to work in increases our pay by .50-1.50 per hour. :)