Passed — Now What? · 7 min read · April 24, 2026
One of the most common questions from new FNP graduates — and from experienced FNPs evaluating new opportunities — is: what should I be earning? The answer is more complex than a single number, because FNP compensation varies significantly by geography, specialty, practice setting, and experience level.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2023, the most recent available), the median annual wage for nurse practitioners nationally was $124,680. The 25th percentile was approximately $104,000, and the 75th percentile was approximately $151,000. The 90th percentile was approximately $171,000.
The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) 2023 compensation survey found a median total compensation of $128,000 for FNPs, with significant variation by specialty, setting, and geography.
"The national median is a starting point, not a target. Your market value depends on your geography, your specialty, your setting, and your experience."
Geographic variation in FNP compensation is substantial. The highest-paying states for NPs (BLS 2023) include California ($161,000 median), New Jersey ($148,000), Washington ($147,000), and New York ($145,000). The lowest-paying states include Alabama ($100,000), Tennessee ($103,000), and Mississippi ($104,000).
Cost of living adjustments significantly affect the real value of these differences. A $161,000 salary in San Francisco has less purchasing power than a $120,000 salary in rural Tennessee. Always adjust for cost of living when comparing geographic compensation differences.
FNP compensation varies significantly by specialty and practice setting. Psychiatric-mental health NPs and acute care NPs typically earn above the FNP median; primary care FNPs in private practice typically earn at or slightly below the median. Hospital-employed NPs typically earn more than privately employed NPs, but with less autonomy.