Last Updated: April 2026
RN Salary in Connecticut — 2026 Nurse Pay Guide
Connecticut registered nurses earn an average of $91,620/year ($44.05/hr). Below, we break down pay by city and top earning opportunities using Bureau of Labor Statistics 2024 data with 2026 projections.
RN Salary by City in Connecticut (2026)
| Metro Area | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Hartford | $97,000–$108,000 | $46.63–$51.92/hr |
| New Haven | $93,000–$104,000 | $44.71–$50.00/hr |
| Bridgeport | $90,000–$100,000 | $43.27–$48.08/hr |
| State Average | $91,620 | $44.05/hr |
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 + NurseSalaryIntel data
Night Shift Pay in Connecticut
Connecticut hospitals typically offer night shift differentials of 10–18% above base pay. On a $91,620 base salary, consistent night shift work adds approximately $9,162–$16,492/year. See our complete night shift differential guide for detailed rates by specialty and hospital system.
Travel Nursing in Connecticut
Travel RN assignments in Connecticut typically pay $2,000–$2,800/week. Demand is strongest in urban medical centers and specialty units.
Travel Nurse Salary Guide →Compare Connecticut to Other States
📊 Data Methodology
Salary figures on this page are 2026 estimates derived from the most recent available U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) data, based on the May 2024 survey and published in March 2025. Estimated ranges may also incorporate publicly available 2025 job postings, hospital pay schedules, regional market conditions, and reported compensation trends.
Official 2026 OEWS wage data has not yet been released. All salary figures on this page should be treated as informational estimates rather than official government statistics or guaranteed compensation rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do nurses make in Connecticut?
What is the highest-paying nursing job in Connecticut?
Do travel nurses earn more in Connecticut?
What is the job outlook for nurses in Connecticut?
Top Nursing Specialties in Connecticut
Specialty and certification significantly impact RN pay in Connecticut. See how each role compares nationally and within the state.
ICU Nurse Salary
Critical care pay + CCRN premium
ER Nurse Salary
Emergency nursing pay by state
NICU Nurse Salary
Neonatal ICU pay + certification
Nurse Practitioner Salary
NP pay by specialty and state
CRNA Salary
Highest-paid nursing role — $214K avg
Charge Nurse Salary
Leadership premium over staff RN
Full rankings: Highest-paying nursing specialties 2026 →
Download your free nursing contract audit kit — scripts, checklists, and counter-offer language
- ✓ Word-for-word counter-offer emails for each red flag clause
- ✓ Scripts for negotiating with recruiters by phone
- ✓ Legal addendum language to modify bad clauses
- ✓ What to say if they push back or say "it's standard"
Instant access · Free · No credit card