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Nursing jobs in Rhode Island 2026

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

RN Shortage
1,200
Moderate 4.2%
Median Annual Salary
$101,260
$48.68/hr
COL-Adjusted
$79,517
COL index: 118
Compact State?
No
Single-state license

Key insight

In Rhode Island, there is a shortage of 1,200 registered nurses as of 2026 — 4.2% of the state's nursing workforce demand. Median RN salary is $101,260 per year. After cost of living adjustment, purchasing power equals $79,517 in national terms. Moderate EB-3 activity in this state.

Top hiring cities

  • • Providence
  • • Warwick
  • • Cranston

State nursing board

Rhode Island Board of Nurse Registration and Nursing Education
Endorsement fee: $135 · NCLEX attempts allowed: 8/year
Licensing portal