Highest Paying States for Nurse Practitioners in 2025
The role of a nurse practitioner (NP) continues to grow in importance, both in terms of demand and compensation. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of nurse practitioners is projected to grow by 38% between 2022 and 2032.
With this surge, salaries are on the rise across the nation. If you're exploring lucrative opportunities as an NP, whether in locum tenens or permanent positions, understanding where the highest-paying markets are located can help you plan your career moves wisely.
This blog takes a closer look at the top five states for nurse practitioner salaries in 2025 and key job opportunities in the field.
Why Salaries for Nurse Practitioners Are Skyrocketing
Several factors contribute to the upward trend in nurse practitioner salaries, including the ongoing shortage of primary care physicians, an aging population requiring more complex healthcare, and legislative changes allowing NPs to practice more independently in many states. These dynamics make nurse practitioners indispensable in healthcare teams, particularly in states that compensate well for their expertise and versatility.
Highest-Paying States for Nurse Practitioners in 2025
1. California
California consistently ranks as a leading state for nurse practitioner salaries. With expansive healthcare systems and large underserved rural areas, NPs in California can expect competitive pay along with high demand for services.
Average Salary: $140,000 to $170,000 annually
Top Specialties in Demand:
- Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs) for rural healthcare facilities
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) to manage growing mental health needs
From locum tenens positions in busy urban areas like Los Angeles to permanent jobs in rural clinics, California offers an array of opportunities to match your career goals.
2. Texas
Everything is bigger in Texas, including the demand for nurse practitioners. The state’s vast geography and diverse population mean that NPs are the backbone of healthcare in many regions, from metropolitan hubs to remote towns.
Average Salary: $125,000 to $145,000 annually
Top Specialties in Demand:
- Emergency Care NPs for high-volume emergency rooms
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNPs) to handle the needs of young families
Texas also has a robust locum tenens job market, which provides NPs with flexibility and excellent pay rates for short-term assignments.
3. North Carolina
North Carolina offers one of the best balances between cost of living and competitive NP salaries. With a growing population and a variety of healthcare systems, opportunities abound for nurse practitioners looking for both urban and rural placements.
Average Salary: $110,000 to $135,000 annually
Top Specialties in Demand:
- Geriatric Nurse Practitioners for long-term care facilities
- Acute Care Nurse Practitioners (ACNPs) in hospital settings
Whether you're seeking a permanent role in a hospital or a locum tenens position in a more flexible setting, North Carolina has something for everyone.
4. Washington
Washington boasts high salaries for NPs, with an emphasis on innovative healthcare models and better work-life balance. The state’s progressive healthcare policies make it a fantastic destination for nurse practitioners seeking autonomy in their roles.
Average Salary: $115,000 to $145,000 annually
Top Specialties in Demand:
- Primary Care NPs to serve the state’s underserved rural areas
- Women’s Health Nurse Practitioners (WHNPs) to address rising healthcare disparities for women
Washington is also an excellent choice for those considering locum tenens opportunities, offering shorter commitments with competitive compensation.
5. Tennessee
Tennessee emerges as a high-paying state for nurse practitioners, particularly in light of its skyrocketing healthcare demands. With many underserved areas and a mix of urban and rural settings, the state provides diverse practice environments.
Average Salary: $105,000 to $130,000 annually
Top Specialties in Demand:
- Psychiatric-Mental Health NPs for a growing need in behavioral health
- Family Nurse Practitioners to fill physician shortages
Tennessee’s strong demand for NPs extends to both permanent placements and locum tenens roles, making it an appealing destination for seasoned practitioners and new graduates alike.
Locations and Job Flexibility
Nurse practitioners have the unique advantage of choosing between flexible locum tenens jobs and long-term permanent roles, depending on their lifestyle and career goals.
- Locum Tenens Jobs offer the freedom to take on temporary assignments in different locations, typically with higher hourly rates and minimal long-term commitments. These roles are particularly beneficial for NPs who are seeking variety, flexibility, or the opportunity to gain diverse experience.
- Permanent Roles, on the other hand, provide stability, benefits, and opportunities to build long-term relationships with patients and colleagues.
Both options are widely available in the states mentioned above, ensuring that there’s something for every type of NP career path.
Factors to Consider Beyond Salary
While salary is a critical factor, nurse practitioners should also consider these elements when evaluating job opportunities in high-paying states:
Cost of Living
A higher salary might not stretch as far if you’re in a state with a high cost of living, like California or Washington. Be sure to weigh your paycheck against expenses like housing, transportation, and healthcare.
Scope of Practice
Scope of practice laws vary by state, influencing the level of autonomy you'll have as an NP. States like Washington and California offer full practice authority, allowing NPs to perform many tasks independently.
Work Environment
Some states may have a higher concentration of opportunities in specific healthcare environments, from hospitals to clinics to telehealth platforms. Find a work setting that aligns with your career goals.
Lifestyle and Community
Beyond the paycheck, think about the lifestyle offered by each state. Do you prefer the fast-paced energy of major cities like Dallas or Seattle, or the tranquility of smaller towns in Tennessee or North Carolina?
The Future of Nurse Practitioner Salaries
The demand for nurse practitioners will continue to rise as healthcare systems evolve to meet growing patient needs. Whether you’re exploring locum tenens jobs for flexibility or permanent roles for stability, the opportunities in these top states showcase the increasing recognition of NPs' vital contributions to healthcare.
Start Your NP Job Search Today
Interested in exploring job placements or finding your perfect balance between lifestyle and career goals? Start by checking out nurse practitioner jobs in the states listed above. Whether you’re a new graduate or a seasoned NP looking to advance, there’s never been a better time to take your career to new heights.
