Average registered nurse compensation in Massachusetts across seven career stages — from new grad RN to Chief Nursing Officer. Updated 2026 benchmarks to help you negotiate, plan, and grow.
RN Salary by Role in Massachusetts
Registered nurses in Massachusetts are paid above the national median, averaging roughly $94,000 a year for staff RN roles.
In Massachusetts, compensation grows considerably as nurses gain experience and take on more responsibility. New grad RNs typically start around $66,000, with specialty nurses in units like the ICU, ER, or OR averaging closer to $106,000. Moving into leadership brings a meaningful jump — nurse managers average about $118,000, directors of nursing around $137,000, and chief nursing officers can earn $162,000 or more. For nurses pursuing advanced practice roles (NP, CNS, CRNA, CNM), average pay in Massachusetts runs near $118,000.
Massachusetts has enacted Nurse Licensure Compact legislation that has not yet taken effect, so for now nurses should continue to apply for licensure by endorsement through the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing when moving to or from Massachusetts.
As with any state, factor in local cost of living and taxes alongside salary when evaluating job offers in Massachusetts.
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