Florida Nursing Salary Guide

Note: The salary and informational data presented here is aggregated data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and are provided for information only and are not a promise of employment nor attainment of any certain wage. Best efforts have been made to ensure the information is accurate according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Individuals are advised to visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website for the latest information. Last Updated: April 2025

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) play a vital role in supporting patients with daily care needs and assisting nursing staff across a variety of healthcare settings. In Florida, the average annual salary for CNAs is approximately $38,320, which translates to an hourly wage of around $18.42. However, actual earnings can vary depending on where a CNA works and how much experience they bring to the role.

Entry-level CNAs often start at lower hourly rates, but those with several years of experience or specialized training can earn higher wages over time. Work setting also plays a significant role, CNAs employed in hospitals or government facilities may earn more than those working in nursing homes or home health environments.

While CNA roles typically offer modest starting pay, they serve as an important foundation for career advancement. Many use this role as a stepping stone to pursue higher-paying positions through further education, such as becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN). Earning additional certifications or taking on expanded responsibilities can also improve earning potential within the CNA role.

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), also referred to as Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) in some states, provide essential clinical care under the supervision of Registered Nurses and physicians. In Florida, LPNs earn an average annual salary of approximately $60,320, or about $29.00 per hour, depending on experience and job setting.

Salaries tend to increase with experience. Entry-level LPNs often start with lower wages, but pay typically rises over time as nurses gain clinical experience. Compensation can also vary by work setting. LPNs employed by hospitals or outpatient centers often earn more than those working in nursing homes or home health. Geographic location plays a role as well, with higher wages generally available in areas with strong demand for healthcare services.

Many LPNs choose to continue their education by enrolling in bridge programs that lead to Registered Nurse (RN) licensure. Advancing to the RN level can expand career options and increase earning potential. Additional certifications and continuing education may also contribute to salary growth over time.

Registered Nurses (RNs) in Florida play a key role in patient care, coordinating treatment plans, administering medications, and supporting both patients and medical teams. The average salary for an RN in Florida is around $88,200 per year, which comes out to approximately $42.40 per hour. Actual earnings can vary based on education level, clinical experience, and area of specialization.

RNs who are early in their careers typically earn less than those with several years of experience. Educational background also makes a difference. In Florida, some of the highest-paying RN positions are found in intensive care, emergency departments, surgical units, and labor and delivery.

Geography is another important factor. RNs working in high-demand cities or in large health systems may receive higher salaries compared to those in smaller or rural communities. Pursuing certifications or continuing education can also lead to advancement opportunities and stronger earning potential.

APRNs in Florida typically earn higher salaries than RNs due to their advanced education, clinical expertise, and the increased level of responsibility in their roles. Salaries can vary depending on specialization, years of experience, location, and healthcare setting. Each advanced role offers its own earning potential, influenced by demand and the scope of care provided.

Nursing salaries across Florida can vary depending on the region, with differences driven by local demand, cost of living, and the types of healthcare facilities in each area. Urban centers often offer higher wages to stay competitive, while some rural areas may provide additional incentives to attract qualified staff.

The table below provides a snapshot of average salaries for CNAs, LPNs, and RNs across various Florida cities/metropolitan areas.

Certified Nursing Assistant

• Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater: $38,560
• Jacksonville: $38,010
• Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford: $37,350
• Miami-Fort-Lauderdale-West Palm Beach: $39,540
• Tallahassee: $33,920

Licensed Practical Nurse

• Miami-Fort-Lauderdale-West Palm Beach: $63,070
• Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater: $60,500
• Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford: $59,930
• Jacksonville: $59,100
• Tallahassee: $55,360

Registered Nurse

• Miami-Fort-Lauderdale-West Palm Beach: $92,070
• Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater: $90,260
• Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford: $86,460
• Jacksonville: $85,930
• Tallahassee: $79,030

*Data used in this section is based on annual mean wage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics Query System.

Florida’s healthcare sector continues to expand, creating steady demand for nurses across all levels of the profession.

• According to a 2021 FHA analysis, the state faces an overall shortage of 59,100 nurses by 2035.
• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of registered nurses is projected to grow by 5% between 2024 and 2034 nationally, outpacing many other occupations.

Nurses are needed in a wide range of environments, from hospitals and outpatient centers to home health and community-based care. Specialties such as geriatrics, psychiatric nursing, and chronic disease management are seeing particularly strong demand. Telehealth has also introduced new roles and opportunities, especially in regions working to expand access to care.

With these trends expected to continue, Florida remains a strong market for those entering the field or looking to grow in their nursing careers.

Many nursing positions in Florida include a wide range of benefits that add to overall compensation. These typically include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and tuition assistance for continuing education. While specific packages vary by employer, these benefits play an important role in supporting long-term job satisfaction and career development.

Some healthcare facilities also provide sign-on bonuses, relocation support, or loan repayment programs to attract and retain qualified staff. Flexible scheduling, shift differentials, and access to training or certification programs are often available, particularly within larger hospital systems.

Nurses who choose to work in rural or underserved areas may qualify for state or federal loan forgiveness programs, adding additional value to roles in those communities.

Based on the success of our programs,  we have grown to serve communities in 7 states (and counting!). Find a campus near you to start your NurseLife.