What does a nurse earn in 2025? This is the salary you can expect

Salary for nurses in 2025

Norway has long had a need for skilled nurses, and the salary level is therefore an important factor when people consider choosing this profession. What can you really expect to earn as a nurse in 2025? This question is both natural and important for both fresh students, those who are already working in healthcare, and for anyone curious about a career in caregiving professions.

Average salary for nurses

According to Statistics Norway (SSB) latest salary statistics, the average monthly salary for nurses in healthcare and social services is approximately 51,100 kroner per month in 2024. This results in an annual salary of around 613,000 kroner before tax. The figures apply to full-time and include base salary, supplements, and bonuses.

Salary differences based on experience and seniority

Like many other professions, the salary for nurses increases with seniority. The starting salary for new graduates often lies slightly below the average, typically between 480,000 and 540,000 kroner per year. With several years of experience and higher seniority, the salary can quickly rise to over 650,000 kroner, especially if you work evenings, nights, or weekends and receive supplements.

Salary based on workplace

Workplace also affects the salary level. Nurses in hospitals often earn slightly more than nurses in municipal healthcare services. This is due to both collective agreements and workload. Specialist nurses and those in leadership positions can often expect significantly higher salaries, often from 700,000 kroner and upwards, depending on the areas of responsibility and region.

Potential for higher income through specialization

If you choose to further your education to become a specialist nurse, for example in anesthesia, intensive care, surgery, or midwifery, the salary level increases significantly. Many specialist nurses earn between 700,000 and 850,000 kroner per year, especially with shift work and duty arrangements.

Extra income sources for nurses

Overtime, extra shifts, and weekend work often provide salary supplements. These supplements can make up a significant part of the total income for many nurses. Some also earn extra through part-time positions elsewhere, temp agencies, or substitute services.

Regional differences

Salary can vary somewhat between different regions in Norway. The Oslo area often has the highest salary level, but this can be offset by higher housing costs. There are also variations between smaller and larger municipalities, as well as between public and private workplaces.

Example of salary development

• Newly graduated nurse: approx. 480,000 – 540,000 kroner
• Experienced nurse (5–10 years): approx. 600,000 – 670,000 kroner
• Specialist nurse: approx. 700,000 – 850,000 kroner
• Management position: usually over 800,000 kroner

Note: These are indicative figures and may vary based on discussions in collective bargaining and local salary policies.

How to find available nursing positions and compare salaries?

If you are looking for available nursing positions and want to compare the salary levels for different jobs across the country, Lønna.no offers a unique service. Here you can easily search for available jobs with visible salaries, write applications, create CVs, and keep track of the application process. The service also allows you to compare salary offers for your specific skills and experience – across regions and employers.

What affects a nurse's salary?

Nurse salaries can be affected by several factors, including:

• Seniority and overall experience
• Workplace and sector (municipal, state, private)
• Level of education and specialization
• Shift work, evening, or weekend work
• Collective agreements and local salary negotiations

Some also choose to work part-time or combine several part-time positions for optimal flexibility and better finances. Others move into leadership positions or specialize, resulting in a clear salary increase.

Salary development and future prospects

The salary for nurses has steadily increased in recent years, and expectations are that this trend will continue, due to high demand and political pressure for better conditions in healthcare. Even in 2025, further negotiations for improvements are expected, aiming to make the profession even more attractive.

Summary

Being a nurse provides you with a secure job in a meaningful profession – and at the same time a salary that allows for a comfortable economy, especially if you choose to specialize or take on demanding shifts. Salaries vary based on experience, education, and where you work. For those considering becoming a nurse, or those wanting to compare different job offers, it is wise to use updated salary overviews and job portals that ensure transparency. If you are wondering what to expect in salary in your municipality or region, it is recommended to use services like Lønna.no to make a good choice for your future career.

For more details and the latest statistics, see SSB's updated figures for nurse salaries.