▼20%
$159,827
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$116k
MEDIAN
$160k
90%
$250k
The average salary for a Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) is $159,827 in 2026
Base Salary
$116k - $250k
Bonus
$6k - $52k
Profit Sharing
$20 - $12k
Total Pay
$116k - $264k
Is Average Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) Salary your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)s?
What Do Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)s Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
How do Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)s Rate Their Jobs?
Based on 12 responses, the job of Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) has received a job satisfaction rating of 4.18 out of 5. On average, Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)s are highly satisfied with their job.
Common Health Benefits for a Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)
Medical
83%
Dental
75%
Vision
70%
None
17%
Gender Breakdown for Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)s
Female
89.8%
Male
9.1%
This data is based on 88 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)s
What is the highest pay for Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)s?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) is $250k / year
What is the lowest pay for Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)s?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) is $116k / year
How can Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)s increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) that oversees more junior Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)s, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.