Neonatal Nurse Salary Guide

Many nurses work as registered nurses (RNs) in the obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) department of hospitals, caring for expectant individuals and newborn babies. Neonatal nurses take on even more specialized roles. They work with newborn infants with birth complications or developmental issues. Neonatal nurses’ patients include premature babies and infants with defects, infections, or malformations.

Neonatal nurses earn compensation in line with other RNs. This page explores neonatal nurse salaries and the factors that can affect their pay. Our other guides explore neonatal nurse responsibilities and information on becoming a neonatal nurse.

Along with other RNs, neonatal nurse salaries vary based on many factors, including education level. Neonatal nurses — sometimes called neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurses — tend to earn higher salaries with more advanced degrees.

The table below uses data from MedScape’s 2022 RN/LPN Compensation Report to demonstrate how education affects salary. On average, RNs with doctorates earn $14,000 more than those with bachelor’s degrees in nursing.

Source: MedScape

We often hear about the gender pay gap in positions of leadership or male-dominated industries like technology or finance, but the gender pay gap occurs in nursing too.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), women comprise 88% of working RNs. Even so, male neonatal nurses earn significantly higher salaries than female nurses, as indicated in data from the Journal of Nursing Regulation.

Experience also affects NICU nurse salaries. As neonatal nurses gain experience in their profession over time, they receive pay raises. Some NICU nurses find job opportunities with higher salaries at different hospitals or doctors’ offices.

The chart below demonstrates how neonatal nurse salaries increase over time. Data from Payscale as of September 2023 indicates that NICU nurses can potentially expect a salary increase of over $42,000 throughout their careers.

Location also significantly affects pay. Considerations like demand, the urban versus rural divide, cost of living, and government funding of certain hospitals can factor into salary.

The BLS does not provide state-specific information for neonatal nurses. However, variations in NICU nurse salaries across the country remain consistent with general RN earnings.

RNs earn average salaries of over $100,000 in two states: Hawaii, where they earn average pay of $113,220; and California, where they make an average salary of $133,340. Other states with mean earnings over $90,000 include Massachusetts, Oregon, and Alaska.

In several states, the average income for RNs remains under $70,000.

Certification, level of education, and specialization can influence salaries within the RN profession. The following chart indicates that neonatal nurses earn salaries similar to nurses in comparable specialties. They might take in slightly more than professions like school or pediatric nurse.

With so many factors influencing neonatal nurse salaries, these professionals can earn salaries within a wide range of about $52,000- $102,000, according to Payscale in September 2023.

NICU nurses can take several measures to increase their income. These steps involve considerable determination. The time and financial commitment typically pay off over time with higher salaries and jobs with greater responsibilities.

Starting salaries vary depending on factors like location and education. Payscale data as of September 2023 suggests that entry-level NICU nurses earn an average base salary of $60,750. This amount can increase over time with experience.

OB/GYN clinical nurses who work with newborns make an average salary of $65,400, according to Payscale in September 2023. However, neonatal or NICU nurses who work with premature infants and babies with complications tend to earn higher salaries. Payscale figures as of September 2023 indicate that neonatal nurses earn an average salary of nearly $78,000.

Neonatal nurses often find their jobs fulfilling. They ensure the survival of new and vulnerable lives. These nurses also benefit from higher-than-average salaries and a profession with an optimistic job outlook. The BLS projects that RN employment will increase by 6% from 2022-2032.

NICU nurses earn salaries on par with RNs as a whole. However, they can increase their salary potential over time by gaining experience or getting certification. They can also increase potential by earning a graduate degree, pursuing leadership roles, or moving to higher-paying areas or work settings.