What Registered Nurses Earn in Canada

Job Bank reports a median wage of $43.27 an hour for registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses in Canada. Its national low and high figures are $30.00 and $54.37 an hour. These are wage estimates for the occupational group, not a promised starting rate or a ceiling on what an individual nurse can earn.

The figures were updated on November 19, 2025, using a 2023–2024 reference period. We checked them on October 12, 2026. They should not be described as a survey of 2026 earnings.

Source: Job Bank — registered nurse wages in Canada

How pay compares by province

In the same Job Bank release, provincial median hourly wages include British Columbia at $47.58, Alberta at $47.50, Saskatchewan at $47.13 and Ontario at $42.00. These are medians, not averages or collective-agreement pay steps. Compare the relevant local wage data with the rate in the actual offer.

What an hourly rate means for annual income

Annual earnings depend on paid hours. For illustration, $43.27 × 37.5 hours × 52 weeks is $84,376.50 before deductions. That assumes 1,950 paid hours at the same rate. It excludes overtime and premiums and is a calculation, not a reported average annual salary.

Compare the whole offer

Before choosing a role, check its pay scale, expected hours, shift premiums, paid leave and benefits. A higher advertised hourly rate alone does not tell you which arrangement leaves you better off. Ask what is included and what costs you would cover yourself.

Considering casual work

Casual work may fit around an existing position or other commitments. Compare each opportunity on its own terms: the rate, hours, location, requirements and any expenses. Do not assume a short-notice shift pays more or that work will always be available.

Staffy connects healthcare professionals and facilities through its marketplace. Start with the RN information below, then check the app for current opportunities and requirements. A public role page does not confirm that a particular shift is open.

Explore registered nurse opportunities with Staffy

Common questions

Is $43.27 the rate every RN should expect? No. It is the national median for the occupational group in Job Bank's published data. An individual offer may differ.

Do casual shifts always pay more? There is no verified basis here for that claim. Compare the offered rate and total terms rather than treating casual work as a guaranteed pay increase.