National Nurses Week: Best states for nurses revealed in new study

Maine nurse turns lost stuffed animal into hospital adventure story for young patient

A heartwarming incident unfolded at a Maine hospital when a 6-year-old girl left behind her stuffed pig, "Piggy," after undergoing tonsil surgery. To alleviate the stress, a nurse embarked on a creative endeavor, taking Piggy on a hospital adventure. (Credit: Northern Light Health)

According to a new study by WalletHub, nursing remains one of the most rewarding career paths, with a mean annual wage of more than $98,000 and some of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation.

But the study also found that some states offer better environments for nursing professionals than others. 

The study, conducted by WalletHub, compared all 50 states across 20 key metrics, including salary levels, quality of nursing schools and working environments.

Washington is the best state for nurses

By the numbers:

According to the data, Washington emerged as the best state for nurses in 2025. 

The Evergreen State stood out for its high median earnings across multiple nursing roles, including registered nurses and licensed practical nurses. Washington also boasts one of the highest job growth rates in the industry and is home to several top-ranked nursing schools.

FILE: Nurse (Credit: Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

In addition, about 34% of Washington residents live in designated Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs), which means demand for new nurses remains high, making it easier for recent graduates to find employment.

Nurses can also avoid burnout because the state restricts mandatory overtime, and nurses who work in nursing homes benefit from the fact that the state has a very high percentage of nursing homes rated five stars.

What they're saying:

"Nurses are among the most essential workers in the country, as we’ve seen all too well over the past few years," Chip Lupo, a WalletHub analyst said in a statement. "Since they work in such a demanding profession, nurses deserve to work in places that will compensate them appropriately and offer them reasonable working conditions. The best states for nurses have high salaries, mandatory overtime limits, high-quality health care facilities."

Top states for nurses

1. Washington
2. New Hampshire
3. Oregon
4. Arizona
5. Maine
6. New Mexico
7. Massachusetts
8. Minnesota
9. Illinois
10. Connecticut

National Nurses Week deals and discounts

Dig deeper:

This new study comes amid National Nurses Week, a week which recognizes nurses across the country for their service and dedication to helping patients.

RELATED: National Nurses Week 2025: Deals and discounts

The week typically comes with perks – from food discounts to other offers and discounts to thank them for their hard work. Here’s a look at many of the deals and discounts for National Nurses Week.