▼14%
$34.33
Avg. Base Hourly Rate (USD)
/ hour
Avg. Base Hourly Rate (USD)
10%
$24.82
MEDIAN
$34.33
90%
$47.68
The average hourly pay for a Head Nurse is $34.33 in 2025
Hourly Rate
$25 - $48
Bonus
$296 - $5k
Profit Sharing
$0 - $4k
Total Pay
$52k - $111k
Is Average Head Nurse Hourly Pay your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Head Nurses?
What Do Head Nurses Do?
Head Nurse Tasks
- Evaluate and assess nursing needs of the client.
- Observe signs and symptoms and report to the physician and/or other appropriate health professionals as often as needed, or upon changes in the client's condition.
- Initiate diagnostic, preventive and rehabilitative nursing procedures as appropriate to the client's care and safety.
- Attend client care conferences and initiate client care conferences for complex and/or multidisciplinary clients whenever needed.
- Coordinate the total plan of care and maintain continuity of client care by acting as a liaison with other health professionals assigned to the same clients.
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How do Head Nurses Rate Their Jobs?
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Common Health Benefits for a Head Nurse
Medical
82%
Dental
64%
Vision
41%
None
18%
Gender Breakdown for Head Nurses
Female
88.9%
Male
11.1%
This data is based on 18 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Head Nurses
What is the highest pay for Head Nurses?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Head Nurse is $47.68 / hour
What is the lowest pay for Head Nurses?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Head Nurse is $24.82 / hour
How can Head Nurses increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Head Nurse 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 Head Nurse that oversees more junior Head Nurses, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.