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Nursing jobs in Arkansas 2026

Vacancies, salaries, EB-3 demand and licensing — verified against BLS OEWS 2025 + HRSA NCHWA 2026.

RN Shortage
4,900
Critical 12.1%
Median Annual Salary
$81,520
$39.19/hr
COL-Adjusted
$75,483
COL index: 89
Compact State?
Yes
NLC multistate eligible

Key insight

In Arkansas, there is a shortage of 4,900 registered nurses as of 2026 — 12.1% of the state's nursing workforce demand. Median RN salary is $81,520 per year. After cost of living adjustment, purchasing power equals $75,483 in national terms. This is a HIGH-priority EB-3 sponsorship state — international nurses are actively recruited here.

Top hiring cities

  • • Little Rock
  • • Fayetteville
  • • Springdale

State nursing board

Arkansas State Board of Nursing
Endorsement fee: $100 · NCLEX attempts allowed: 8/year
Licensing portal