How Long Is Nursing School? Breakdown by Degree and Type of Nurse

If you’re planning to become a nurse, you may be wondering how long it takes to go to nursing school. The answer to that question depends on the degree you’d like to earn and what type of nurse you want to be. For instance, becoming a registered nurse (RN) with a bachelor of science in nursing degree (BSN) takes longer than becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN).

If you’re wondering, how long is nursing school?, read on to learn how the type of degree you pursue and the kind of nurse you’d like to become affect how many years of school it takes to become a nurse.

Key Points

•   The length of time it takes to complete nursing school depends on the type of nurse a student wants to be and the type of degree earned.

•   Licensed practical nurse (LPN) programs are typically one year, preparing students for basic practical nursing roles.

•   Associate nursing (ADN) programs require two years of study, qualifying graduates for RN positions but potentially fewer opportunities for career advancement.

•   Bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) programs span four years, offering broader career and leadership opportunities post-RN licensure.

•   Master of science in nursing (MSN) programs take 2-3 years post-BSN, enhancing specialized knowledge and advanced practice skills.

Length of Nursing School by Degree and Program

Nursing school program length varies by the type of degree you’re working toward and the program you choose. Here are some common programs and degrees for students and the nursing school timeline for each.

LPN/LVN Program

An LPN, a licensed practical nurse — referred to as an LVN, licensed vocational nurse in California and Texas — is a nurse that performs basic tasks such as checking patients’ vital signs, administering basic comfort care, keeping records, and maintaining communication with patients and their families. LPNs and LVNs work in nursing homes, extended care facilities, hospitals, physicians’ offices, and in home health care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and doctors.

To become an LPN or LVN, you must have a high school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) and enroll in an accredited practical nursing program at a community college or vocational school.

•   Number of credit hours required: Between 36 and 40

•   Program length: Typically one year if you attend school full-time, and up to two years for part-time students

Once a nurse completes an LPN/LVN program, they must apply for testing authorization through their local board of nursing and the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. After receiving authorization, they can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). A nurse must pass the exam to receive their license to work.

Nursing Diploma

Diplomas or certificate programs were the standard for nursing training until the 1950s. Students can still become RNs by attending a hospital nursing school instead of a college or university, but there are no longer many accredited programs available in the U.S.

These programs typically focus on clinical training rather than general education. You won’t earn a degree with this program, and your academic credits generally won’t transfer to a degree program. Instead, you’ll qualify to take the NCLEX-RN exam. If you pass, you’ll become a licensed RN, which qualifies you for entry-level jobs. However, job opportunities for those with a nursing diploma may be limited. This is something to keep in mind when you think about life after school and living on a budget as a nurse.

To get a nursing diploma, you’ll need a high school diploma or GED certificate and be enrolled in an accredited hospital nursing school.

•   Number of credit hours required: 50

•   Program length: One year

Associate Degree in Nursing

You might consider an associate degree in nursing (ADN) to become an RN if you want to finish nursing school quickly or you’re concerned about paying for the cost of nursing school. Plus, you could always go back to school later — an ADN allows you to apply credits toward a future bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) or master of science in nursing (MSN).

However, ADN students may find that their advancement and salary opportunities as a nurse are limited. So think carefully about whether an ADN makes sense for your goals.

To gain admittance to an ADN program, you must have a high school diploma or GED certificate, take math and science courses in high school, and meet GPA requirements to enter a nursing program.

•   Number of credit hours required: 60 to 75

•   Program length: Two years

ADN students must also complete a certain number of clinical hours at a health-care site. Graduates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to start working as a nurse.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

A bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program allows students to become an RN and offers them more career opportunities, including leadership positions. While BSN programs take longer and are more costly to complete than ADN programs, students can earn a combination of credits through online, hybrid, and in-person classes.

To qualify for a BSN program, you need to have taken high school math and science courses and earned a high school diploma or GED certificate. You also must meet a school’s GPA requirements, which is typically at least a 3.0.

•   Number of credit hours required: 120

•   Program length: Four years

BSN students must fulfill clinical hour requirements based on their program and state to graduate. They will then need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to begin working as a nurse. If they choose to, they can apply their BSN credits toward a master of science in nursing (MSN).

Master of Science in Nursing

Earning an MSN allows you to work as an advanced practice nurse, such as a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, certified nurse-midwife, nurse educator, or nurse administrator.

If you’re wondering, how long is nursing school after undergraduate school?, it typically depends on the type of degree you already have, which dictates the type of MSN program you can take.

•   BSN to MSN: These programs are for those who already have a BSN and at least one year of RN experience. To earn an MSN you must meet clinical and practice requirements at a health-care facility.

   Program length: Two to three years

•   MSN bridge program: This option is for RNs with associate degrees. It combines the last two years of a BSN program with an MSN program.

   Program length: Three years

•   Direct-entry master’s degree: Qualified applicants with a non-nursing bachelor’s or graduate degree may pursue a direct-entry graduate nursing program. It counts existing college credits, especially those earned in STEM courses, toward the MSN. Students must take a condensed BSN curriculum for a year, pass the NCLEX-RN, and earn an RN license before advancing to the MSN part of the program.

   Program length: 18 to 36 months

•   Dual master’s degree: RNs pursuing advanced leadership roles such as nursing administrator or clinical informatics manager, can pursue a dual master’s degree program, such as an MSN/MBA. The degree combines business, nursing practice, and administration.

   Program length: Three to four years

Doctor of Nursing Practice

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree is for nurses who seek the highest level of expertise and leadership in the field. These nurses work to influence health-care outcomes through leadership, health policy implementation, and direct patient care. They often work in nurse management, organizational leadership, and health policy, or in health informatics systems functioning as nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists, and nurse practitioners.

To earn a DNP, a nurse must have a license as an RN and an MSN or more advanced degree, or they must hold a BSN and master’s degree in another discipline.

   Number of credit hours required: 33 to 43 and at least 500 clinical practice hours

   Program length: One to two years of full-time coursework or two to three years of part-time coursework

Recommended: Ways to Pay for Nursing School

How Long to Become a Registered Nurse?

There are multiple pathways to becoming an RN, and depending on the program you opt for, you can become an RN in one year, two years, or four years.

   In one year: you can become an RN by earning a nursing diploma from an accredited school

   In two years: you can become an RN by earning an ADN

   In four-years: you can become an RN by earning a BSN degree

In each case, after earning your degree, you will need to take and pass the NCLEX-RN exam and then obtain a nursing license in your state before you can start working as an RN.

How Long to Become a Nurse Practitioner?

If you’re thinking about a more specialized or advanced degree, you might be interested in becoming a nurse practitioner (NP). NPs have many professional responsibilities, including assessing and diagnosing patients, creating treatment plans, and prescribing medication.

NPs must have either a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing. That means it takes between six to eight years of schooling to become a licensed nurse practitioner.

The Cost of Nursing School

As you’re thinking about a nursing school timeline, you’ll also want to consider the cost of earning your degree. The average cost of nursing school is approximately $30,884 annually for a four-year BSN degree.

Fortunately, there are options to help nursing students afford their schooling, including federal student loans, scholarships and grants, and private student loans. Be sure to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see what you qualify for.

Also, keep in mind that there are ways to make paying your student loans more manageable, including income-driven repayment plans for federal student loans, loan repayment assistance programs offered by various states and organizations, and student loan refinancing.

When you refinance student loans, you replace your current loans with a new loan from a private lender such as a bank, credit union, or online lender. Ideally, the new loan will have a lower interest rate and more favorable loan terms.

If you can secure a lower interest rate, refinancing student loans to save money may make sense for you to help pay for nursing school. Be sure to explore all your options.

Using a student loan refinancing calculator can help you see what your monthly payment might be if you choose to refinance.

Recommended: Student Loan Refinancing Guide

The Takeaway

How long nursing school takes to complete depends on your career goals. It generally takes just one year for a nursing diploma, but it can take as long as eight years for a doctoral degree. Think carefully about the program and career path that makes the most sense for you.

Nursing school can be expensive, and many students use federal student loans to help pay for it. They might also fill any funding gaps with private student loans.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.


With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.

FAQs

How many years is nursing school?

The nursing school timeline depends on the type of degree you pursue. If you’d like to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN), which is called a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) in some states, it can take just one year to meet all the requirements. However, if you want to earn a bachelor of science in nursing degree (BSN), it typically takes four years, while a doctoral degree (DNP) can take up to eight years.

What is the shortest schooling for nursing?

The quickest way to become a nurse is to earn a licensed practical nurse (LPN)/licensed vocational nurse (LVN) degree, which generally takes one year to complete. However, the degree doesn’t necessarily offer as many opportunities for career advancement. Typically, the more education you have, and the more advanced the degree, the better your chances to move up in your career and earn a higher salary. Explore the different degrees, types of nurses, and schooling options to determine what is the best fit for you.

Is nursing school hard?

Nursing school is rigorous and demanding. It requires you to take challenging classes like physiology, pharmacology, and ethics. In addition, clinical rotations require working with patients in health-care scenarios, where you’ll juggle multiple responsibilities. You’ll also have to take and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to get your license to practice.


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Should You Work While in College?

Working while in college is a big decision, and it comes with both rewards and challenges. On one hand, having a job can help you gain financial independence, build valuable skills, and expand your professional network. On the other hand, it can also add stress, take time away from studying, and limit your social life.

If you’re debating whether or not you should get a job in college, it’s important to carefully weigh both the benefits and drawbacks. Here’s a look at how the pros and cons stack up, plus some important factors to consider when looking for a college job.

Key Points

•   Working during college enhances financial independence by reducing reliance on loans and providing extra income.

•   A college job helps students develop valuable work skills likes time management, communication, and teamwork.

•   Working can expand your professional network, connecting you with future job opportunities and career guidance.

•   Potential drawbacks include negative impacts on academic performance, social life, and overall well-being due to increased stress.

•   Students should seek flexible jobs that align with their academic goals to maintain balance.

Pros of Working While in College

There are several reasons to consider working while in college. Some of the key benefits include:

•   Extra cash for discretionary expenses: Even if your education is entirely funded through financial aid, you can’t use that money for fun things, like streaming services, concerts, road trips, and social events. Money earned from a part-time job, however, can go right into your student bank account and is yours to spend freely.

•   Reduced debt: Given the high cost of tuition and other college expenses, many students turn to federal and private student loans to fill in funding gaps. Earning money through a part-time job or flexible side hustle can help cover your expenses and lessen your reliance on loans, allowing you to leave school with less debt.

•   Work experience and skill development: Holding a job while in college can provide valuable work experience that can enhance your resume. You can develop skills such as time management, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which tend to be highly valued by employers. Gaining work experience early can also give you a competitive edge when entering the job market after graduation.

•   Networking opportunities: No matter how many hours you work each week, having a job in college can help expand your professional network. Part-time jobs, internships, and on-campus positions often give students the opportunity to connect with professors, employers, and colleagues who may be able to provide job opportunities or career guidance in the future.

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Cons of Working While in College

While working during college comes with financial and other benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:

•   Impact on grades: There are all kinds of ways to earn extra cash as a student. But time spent working is time you can’t spend on your school work. If you work too much and don’t allocate enough time to complete your homework, school projects, and/or study for tests, you might notice your grades starting to slip.

•   Less time for socializing and other activities: College is not only about academics but also about building friendships and gaining new experiences. While you may meet new people through a job, you may find yourself working evenings and weekends — prime socializing time with your classmates. A demanding job can also limit your ability to get involved in extracurricular activities, which is another important aspect of college life.

•   Increased stress and fatigue: Balancing work and school can be stressful. Long hours at work, combined with academic responsibilities, can lead to burnout and exhaustion. If not managed properly, this stress can negatively affect your mental health and well-being, and take a toll on your work performance and academic success.

•   Impact on future financial aid: While money earned through work-study programs can’t impact your financial aid, any other income you earn needs to be reported when you file your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If you bring in more than $11,000 from working while you’re in college (from non-work-study jobs), it could potentially affect your financial aid package in future years.

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Things to Consider If You Decide to Work While in College

If you feel the pros of working while in college outweigh the cons, here are some important factors to keep in mind when searching for a job, as well as deciding on how many hours you should work as a student.

Work Schedule Flexibility

A flexible work schedule is important when you’re balancing school and employment. The best jobs for students generally offer adjustable hours and/or allow you to alter your schedule each semester as your class schedule changes. Work-study programs (which may be offered as part of a financial aid package) can be ideal, since they are designed to work around a student’s schedule, allowing you to prioritize class time and study time.

Impact on Academics

If you think a particular part-time job could have a negative impact on your academic performance, you’ll want to think carefully before applying. This is particularly important if you have a scholarship that depends on maintaining a certain grade point average. Losing merit money would likely negate any of the financial benefits of working while in school.

Type of Job

Not all college jobs provide equal benefits for college students. Some roles, such as internships or on-campus jobs, may align with your academic and career goals and offer valuable experience. Others may be unrelated to your field of study but come with other perks, like allowing you to do some studying while you’re on the job or generally being low stress. When considering different employment options, you’ll want to weigh all the pros and cons.

Recommended: 15 Side Hustles With a Low Startup Cost

Campus Resources

Your college or university may offer a number of resources to help you find part-time work, particularly jobs that pair well with being a part- or full-time student. Consider tapping your school’s career center, student employment office, and your college advisor for guidance on job opportunities, as well as time management strategies that can help you juggle working with being a student.

Stress and Time Management

Before you commit to working a set number of hours each week, you’ll want to assess how much time you realistically have to devote to working. Be sure to factor in classes, homework/studying, extracurricular activities, and (yes) downtime. Also consider how stressful the role might be. Generally, the best jobs for college students are low-pressure positions that don’t require checking your email outside of working hours.

While working may be financially helpful, understanding your personal limits and avoiding overcommitment is essential to maintaining overall well-being while you’re in college.

Logistics

If you live on campus and don’t have access to a car, you may want to limit your job search to employers located on or near campus, or you might look into remote job opportunities. If you need to expand your search to jobs that require public transportation, keep in mind that transit time will cut into the time you have for studying and other activities.

The Takeaway

Working while in college has a number of benefits, including financial rewards, job experience, skill development, and building a network you may be able to tap after you graduate. But having a job while you’re in school also has some downsides, including added stress and less time for studying, extracurricular activities, and socializing.

Ultimately, the decision to work while in college will depend on your individual circumstances and goals. With careful planning and time management, students can often successfully navigate both work and academic responsibilities, setting themselves up for success both in college and beyond.

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FAQ

How many hours a week should a college student work?

The number of hours a college student should work depends on individual circumstances, academic workload, and financial needs. Generally, experts recommend working no more than 15 to 20 hours per week to ensure your academic performance isn’t negatively affected. Part-time jobs with flexible schedules can help students maintain a healthy balance between work and school.

Is it common to work while in college?

Yes, it is common for college students to work while pursuing their degrees. Many students take on part-time jobs, internships, or work-study positions to support themselves financially and gain work experience. According to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 81% of part-time undergraduate students and 42% of full-time students in the U.S. work while they are in school.

What are common jobs for college students?

There’s a wide variety of jobs for college students. Work-study programs typically offer students on-campus jobs, such as being an assistant in a library, administrative office, or lab. Many students also find employment off campus. Common off-campus jobs include being a barista, cashier, restaurant server/host, retail sales associate, receptionist, line cook, and childcare provider. Remote jobs, such as social media management or online tutoring, are also popular among students looking for flexibility.


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Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi members with Eligible Direct Deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

As an alternative to Direct Deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant. SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits are not eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Eligible Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving an Eligible Direct Deposit or receipt of $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Eligible Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

SoFi Bank reserves the right to grant a grace period to account holders following a change in Eligible Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits activity before adjusting rates. If SoFi Bank grants you a grace period, the dates for such grace period will be reflected on the APY Details page of your account. If SoFi Bank determines that you did not have Eligible Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits during the current 30-day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, then you will begin earning the rates earned by account holders without either Eligible Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits until SoFi Bank recognizes Eligible Direct Deposit activity or receives $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits in a subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period. For the avoidance of doubt, an account holder with both Eligible Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits will earn the rates earned by account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit.

Separately, SoFi members who enroll in SoFi Plus by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days can also earn 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. For additional details, see the SoFi Plus Terms and Conditions at https://www.sofi.com/terms-of-use/#plus.

Members without either Eligible Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits, as determined by SoFi Bank, during a 30-Day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, or who do not enroll in SoFi Plus by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days, will earn 1.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances.

Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 1/24/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
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Average US Salary by State and Year

Average US Salary by State

The average salary in the U.S. is $66,622, according to the latest data from the Social Security Administration. How your salary compares will depend on your industry and skilI set, as you’d expect. What you might not realize is that your salary is also greatly influenced by where you live, since salaries go hand in hand with the cost of living.

Here’s a closer look at the average salary in the U.S. and how income varies from state to state.

Key Points

•   The average salary in the US varies depending on factors like occupation, location, and experience.

•   Recent data indicate an average household income of $66,622 in the U.S.

•   The cost of living and regional differences can impact salary levels across the country.

•   High-paying states are typically on the East and West coasts, while pay tends to be lower in the South.

•   It’s important to research salary ranges for specific occupations and locations when considering job opportunities.

What Is the Average US Salary (2025)

The national average salary is $63,795. That is the sum of all incomes divided by the number of workers. Where someone lives, their industry, education level, and current demand for that job all contribute to how much a worker earns per year.


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Average Salary vs Median Salary: What’s the Difference?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides data on median pay. As of Q4 2024, the median weekly earnings of full-time workers was $1,192, or $61,984 per year. The median is the midpoint in the data set, with 50% of incomes falling above that figure, and 50% below.

Why are the average and median income figures different? With averages, unusually high or low numbers can skew the results. For instance, multi-millionaires or billionaires might drive the average higher than what the typical worker actually makes. The median is less affected by outliers.

US Average and Median Salary by State in 2025

The following chart shows both the average and median income (in single income households) in each state, according to data from Forbes and the U.S. Census Bureau.

State

Average

Median

Alabama $53,394 $59,605
Alaska $66,130 $82,512
Arizona $63,045 $66,340
Arkansas $51,251 $54,658
California $76,960 $74,819
Colorado $71,968 $77,331
Connecticut $73,736 $81,285
Delaware $65,998 $75,674
Florida $60,216 $62,973
Georgia $61,256 $62,468
Hawaii $65,042 $78,745
Idaho $55,640 $68,781
Illinois $67,122 $66,950
Indiana $56,410 $60,351
Iowa $56,410 $61,283
Kansas $56,264 $64,518
Kentucky $54,018 $57,509
Louisiana $53,435 $53,821
Maine $60,008 $66,369
Maryland $73,632 $81,293
Massachusetts $80,330 $81,170
Michigan $60,590 $64,579
Minnesota $66,706 $72,319
Mississippi $47,569 $51,554
Missouri $57,574 $59,605
Montana $55,910 $65,242
Nebraska $58,074 $63,813
Nevada $58,906 $64,412
New Hampshire $66,102 $84,017
New Jersey $73,986 $83,102
New Mexico $57,512 $56,766
New York $78,624 $69,135
North Carolina $59,717 $61,811
North Dakota $59,051 $66,813
Ohio $59,883 $61,617
Oklahoma $53,456 $55,362
Oregon $66,706 $70,266
Pennsylvania $61,922 $66,923
Rhode Island $66,602 $72,515
South Carolina $54,246 $59,661
South Dakota $53,227 $63,862
Tennessee $56,035 $59,052
Texas $61,235 $61,460
Utah $61,069 $78,917
Vermont $62,774 $65,712
Virginia $70,054 $75,756
Washington $78,125 $86,558
West Virginia $52,208 $57,979
Wisconsin $59,509 $66,106
Wyoming $57,928 $61,866

Recommended: Salary to Hourly Calculator

Why Do States Have Different Average Salaries?

The chart shows that the average salary in some states is quite different from the average salary nationwide. That’s partly because the cost of living, which affects how much a company pays its employees, varies significantly by state.

Also, inflation impacts states to varying degrees.

In addition, industries with a concentrated presence in certain states — such as banking or automobile manufacturing — can affect the overall quality of job opportunities in that area.

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Which Regions Pay the Most?

Salaries tend to be higher in some areas of the country. Cities on the West Coast and in the Northeast have some of the highest average salaries:

•   Massachusetts

•   New York

•   Washington

•   California

•   New Jersey

•   Connecticut

•   Maryland

Remember, while these states have higher incomes, they may also have a much higher cost of living and higher housing prices.

Recommended: 25 Highest-Paying Jobs in the US

Which Regions Pay the Least?

The South is home to states that tend to pay the least:

•   South Carolina

•   Kentucky

•   Louisiana

•   Alabama

•   Arkansas

•   West Virginia

•   Mississippi

To determine what your personal cost of living is, try tracking your expenses with a free budget app for a few months.

Recommended: Biweekly Money-Saving Challenge

Should You Move to Make More Money?

It’s important to remember that just because a state has a higher average salary, that doesn’t mean it’s more profitable for workers to live there. Higher salaries tend to correlate with a higher cost of living.

Before making a major move, first try living below your means. One reason that people who make more money still have trouble paying their bills is the phenomenon of lifestyle creep. This is when your so-called needs expand to consume your current salary.

One of the most effective ways to counteract lifestyle creep is to downsize your home. Reducing your housing expenses to less than 30% of your gross income can help you pay down debt, increase savings, and become more conscious of how lifestyle choices affect spending.


💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

The Takeaway

The average annual average salary in the U.S. is $66,622. The median annual salary, which is often less skewed by outlying numbers, is $61,984. It’s worth noting that average and median salaries vary quite a bit by state. States in the Northeast and on the West Coast tend to pay higher salaries, while those in the South often pay less. What’s stopping people from moving to a higher paying state? Often, it’s housing prices, which rise along with the cost of living in “richer” states.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

SoFi helps you stay on top of your finances.

FAQ

How much do the top 10% of Americans make per year?

The top 10% of Americans earn $167,639 per year. Some top earners live in higher cost of living areas, so it can be more revealing to see how much the top 10% earn in your state.

What percentage of Americans make over $75K?

Only 12.1% of Americans make in the $75,000 to $99,999 range. An additional 17% make between $100,000 and $149,000, and 15.7% earn in the $50,000 to $74,999 range.

Which U.S. state has the highest salary?

Massachusetts is the state with the highest annual income of $76,600. This salary is significantly more than the national average salary of $63,795.


About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco is a freelance writer who specializes in financial topics. Her first job out of college was in the financial industry, and it was there she gained a passion for helping others understand tricky financial topics. Read full bio.



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Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.


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What is a Minimalist Lifestyle? Minimalist Lifestyle Tips

Guide to a Minimalist Lifestyle

Many people struggle to keep up with the demands and expenses of daily life, which can create stress and anxiety. That’s why some choose a minimalist lifestyle: Fewer possessions make for easier management. Minimalists strive to eliminate anything in their life that does not serve their purpose. This leads to more physical, emotional, and financial space.

If the concept of minimalism appeals to you, read on to better understand what a minimalist lifestyle is, its benefits, and how to start on the path to a simpler, more manageable, and possibly more affordable lifestyle.

Key Points

•   Minimalist living can reduce stress, improve health, and benefit the environment and one’s budget.

•   Focus on quality over quantity when making purchases.

•   Conduct a life audit to identify and remove non-essential items.

•   Invest in experiences rather than material goods for greater satisfaction.

•   Digitize and reuse items to minimize waste and save money; unneeded items can be sold or donated.

What Is a Minimalist Lifestyle?

Minimalist living is uncluttered by superfluous items like luxury cars, excessive clothing, and purely decorative furnishings. There can be many reasons someone chooses a minimalist lifestyle; they might want to simplify their life to reduce stress, improve their health, or reduce harm to the environment. They may also want to cut back on expenses and improve their budgeting and finances.

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Surprising Benefits of a Minimalist Lifestyle

When you have less stuff, it follows that you have less to worry about. A minimalist lifestyle allows you to carry less literal and metaphorical baggage around.

Another benefit is that minimalists buy fewer things, which can allow you to save money. From a holistic perspective, minimalism reduces consumerism, and that can benefit the planet.

How to Live a Minimalist Lifestyle

Living a minimalist lifestyle can seem daunting for some, requiring a mindset shift. Here’s a window into a more minimalist mindset and lifestyle to give you a taste of what it involves. And don’t forget as you read that there are benefits to living below your means.

Invest in Experiences

Rather than collecting things and possessions, a minimalist lifestyle emphasizes experiences. Minimalists spend, just in a more deliberate way. For example, minimalists may spend on vacations and concerts rather than on cars and jewelry.

Audit Your Life

Auditing your life involves deciding what is most important and eliminating anything superfluous. Deciding what is most important can be difficult, but some questions to ask yourself are: How am I doing mentally and physically? What’s important to me now that perhaps wasn’t before? The answer to these and similar questions can help you pinpoint your core values and priorities.

A free budget app can help you audit your spending and evaluate how much of it is really necessary.

Eliminate Needless Expenses

A meaningless expense to one person may be valuable to another. That’s why conducting a life audit is important to help you decide which expenses are not serving your purpose. For example, a person might discover that buying gas is often unnecessary if they can manage without a car most of the time. Or that mid-price brands and gently used items can be just as nice as luxury goods.

Set Limits and Delegate

A minimalist lifestyle is easier to control. Setting limits and delegating is one way to live a minimalist lifestyle because you have less to manage. For example, you might use an accountant to do your taxes, or hire someone to manage your website. You might have fewer screens or electronics or downsize to a smaller home.

Recommended: Does Net Worth Include Home Equity?

Honor Your Priorities

The goal of auditing your life is to establish priorities to eliminate what doesn’t align with them. Part of the journey to minimalism is learning to appreciate what you have and not constantly desire new things. Perhaps you and your partner decide to live on a single income while one of you cares for the family. You may also earn less and have to economize.

Minimalist Lifestyle Tips

How do you implement a minimalist lifestyle? Because the changes can be profound, try making small changes at first as you gradually adjust to a new mindset.

Recommended: What Is the 50-30-20 Budget?

1. Declutter Your Environment and Your Mind

A great place to start is to declutter your environment. Start with your home, your workspace, your car. Get rid of things you haven’t used in a while or that you are just hanging onto in case you need them. As the space around you becomes less messy, you might find your thinking becomes more clear. You can also make some money by selling your unwanted stuff or donate items.

2. Be a Purposeful Not Prolific Consumer

Minimalists still make purchases, but the emphasis is on quality rather than quantity. An example is choosing to use one credit card that serves many purposes rather than five because each one comes with different rewards. Yes, you may benefit from free miles and cash back, but you will also have to buy more to earn those points and rewards, which is consumerism, the antithesis of financial minimalism.

3. Digitize Movies and Books

Most of us have bookcases full of books that sit and gather dust. It’s fine to keep some treasured items and classic novels, but you can also download e-books or visit your local library. Declutter your home of old DVDs, CDs, and books you don’t need.

4. Recycle and Reuse

Reusing shopping bags, refilling a water bottle instead of buying bottled water, or taking your own cup to Starbucks are ways to cut back on trash and single-use products. You’ll save money and help the environment.

5. Get Organized

As you declutter, you’ll find ways to be more organized. Find a space for things you want to keep, and use storage bins and organizers. When everything has a place, you’ll waste less time trying to locate things, and you’ll be more motivated to put things back when you’ve used them.

Recommended: The 52 Week Savings Challenge

The Takeaway

A minimalist lifestyle is appealing, considering how busy and cluttered daily life can be. You don’t have to embrace full-on minimalism immediately but can take small steps, such as establishing goals and priorities, decluttering your environment, and organizing. You can also reduce your expenses and financial obligations this way. As you progress, you may find that your mind clears, your life slows down, and you are able to budget more appropriately too.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

SoFi helps you stay on top of your finances.

FAQ

How do you live a minimalist lifestyle?

Living a minimalist lifestyle requires prioritizing and eliminating things that do not align with your values. The process of elimination will be different for everyone, but it does not have to be quick or painful. Just removing one thing or downloading a budgeting and money tracking app can help you achieve a simple minimalist lifestyle.

What is an example of a minimalist?

An example of a minimalist is someone who lives with very little furniture, or none at all, or someone who moves to a smaller home. A less extreme version of a minimalist might be someone who simplifies things by clearing items from countertops, buys few clothes, or chooses a vegan diet.

What is the 90 rule for minimalism?

The hardest part of achieving a simpler minimalist lifestyle is decluttering. How do you decide what to get rid of? The 90 rule can help. Choose a possession, and ask yourself if you’ve used that item in the past 90 days. If not, then it’s a candidate for elimination from your life because it is not currently serving a useful purpose.


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SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.


Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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What Are the Prerequisites for Nursing School?

A nursing career can be incredibly rewarding professionally and personally. If you’ve decided to attend nursing school to pursue your dream job, you’ll first need to meet certain nursing school prerequisites in order to be eligible. Prerequisites (also called pre reqs for nursing) are required courses or subjects aspiring nurses must take before applying to nursing school.

Learn more about the prerequisites and nursing school requirements you’ll need to be accepted at the college of your choice.

Key Points

•   Academic prerequisites for nursing school vary, depending on the type of nursing degree a student wants to earn.

•   Common prerequisites include high school biology, chemistry, and two years of college-preparatory math, all with a minimum grade of C.

•   Students must also have a certain high school GPA and passing grades on standardized tests like the SAT.

•   Once a student is in nursing school, there are ongoing prerequisite courses they will need to fulfill.

•   The average annual cost for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is approximately $30,884, with financial aid options like scholarships and grants and student loans available to help cover the cost.

Why Nursing School Prerequisites Matter

Nursing school prerequisites prepare students for a career in which they can earn a good salary as a nurse and do work that fulfills them. Whether you’re planning to get an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), each degree program and school requires specific prerequisites. Nursing pre reqs provide the foundation for the more advanced courses you’ll take while in school.

There are different types of nurses, and the type you’re planning to become helps determine the nursing school requirements you’ll need to fulfill. Knowing how many years you’ll be attending school can also help you with budgeting as a nurse. These are some of the nursing roles you might consider.

•   Licensed practical nurse (LPN): LPNs provide basic patient care under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors. They work in hospitals, physicians’ offices, nursing homes, extended care facilities, and in patient’s homes. Rather than a college degree, LPN’s typically attend a vocational or technical school for one year and they must graduate with a license from an accredited institution to practice.

•   Registered nurse (RN): RNs care for patients, administer medication, assist in diagnostic testing, and more. RNs usually work in hospitals, doctors’ offices, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, and other locations. They must have an associate degree in nursing or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

•   Clinical nurse specialist: This is an RN with additional training and education who diagnoses conditions, prescribes medication, and treats patients. These professionals must have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).

•   Nurse practitioner (NP): Nurse practitioners examine and diagnose patients, prescribe medications, and order tests. They must be licensed RNs and have an MSN or a master’s degree in a specialty role.

•   Nursing director: Nursing directors oversee health care facilities. They typically need a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

•   Nurse educator: These nurses teach nursing students clinical skills, patient care methods, and collaboration practices. Nurse educators must have an MSN or DNP degree.

Factoring in the Cost of Nursing School

As you consider the nursing school requirements you’ll need to meet, it’s important to think about how you’ll pay for college. The average cost of nursing school is approximately $30,884 annually for a BSN degree, which can be costly over the four-year degree program.

Fortunately, there are options to help students afford their schooling, including federal student loans, scholarships and grants, and private student loans. Explore the different options, and fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see what you qualify for.

Also, keep in mind that while the thought of repaying school loans can seem daunting, there are ways to manage your payments including income-driven repayment plans for federal student loans, loan repayment assistance programs offered by various states and organizations, and student loan refinancing.

When you refinance student loans, you replace your current loans with a new loan from a private lender such as a bank, credit union, or online lender. Ideally, the new loan will have a lower interest rate and more favorable loan terms.

If you can secure a lower interest rate, refinancing student loans to save money may make sense for you. But be sure to explore your options.

Using our student loan refinancing calculator can help you see what your monthly payment might be.

Common Nursing School Prerequisites

No matter what type of nursing degree you want to earn, the most common nursing school prerequisite is earning a high school diploma or its equivalent, a General Equivalency Diploma (GED).

In addition, you will need these nursing pre reqs:

Biology

Nursing students need one year of high school biology with a grade of C or better.

Chemistry

As a nursing pre req, students need one year of high school chemistry with a grade of C or better.

College-Preparatory Math

Nursing school requirements call for two years of college-preparatory math with at least a C grade.

Grade Point Average (GPA)

To qualify for an Associate Degree in Nursing program, students generally need a GPA of at least 2.7. For a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, they need at least a 3.0 GPA.

Standardized Tests

Passing grades on SATs or TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) are typically required for admission to most nursing schools.

It’s important to note that every college has its own requirements (including GPA requirements), so check with your college’s admissions office to find out what you’ll need specifically to be admitted.

For example, the University of Iowa suggests the following high school prerequisites for nursing:

•   Four years of high school English

•   One year of biology

•   One year of chemistry

•   One year of physics

•   Four years of the same world language or two years in two different world languages, or two years of the same world language plus required additional coursework

•   Algebra I, Algebra II, and geometry

•   Three years of social studies

Recommended: Ways to Pay for Nursing School

How to Complete Nursing School Prerequisites

In most cases, you can take high school courses to complete nursing school prerequisites. But if you know what college you’d like to attend for nursing school, check to see what required courses they ask for.

If your high school doesn’t offer certain prerequisite courses, you can typically complete them through a community college, online courses, or the four-year college where you plan to get your nursing degree.

Other Nursing School Prerequisites

Once you’re in nursing school, there are additional prerequisites you’ll need to fulfill. For example, your school may require you to take some basic courses like the ones below before you can take more advanced classes.

•   English composition

•   Fundamentals of oral communication

•   Biomedical ethics

•   College algebra

•   Microbiology

•   Chemistry

•   Human growth and development

•   College study skills

If you’re already in college and you want to switch your major to nursing, you must also meet specific prerequisites to get into nursing. For example, the University of Iowa requires you to meet these prerequisites with a grade of “C” or higher:

•   Natural science, such as chemistry, biology, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, or nutrition courses

•   Social science, such as elementary psychology, human development and behavior, or sociology classes

•   General education courses, such as arts and cultural perspectives

•   Additional prerequisites, such as rhetoric, statistics, and diversity, equity, and inclusion for health professions

•   World language

Check with the college or university to see what’s needed for the nursing program you want to attend.

Recommended: Student Loan Refinancing Guide

The Takeaway

There are a number of prerequisites needed for nursing school, including high school class requirements before you apply to college, and prerequisites needed once you’re enrolled. Keeping on top of them and making sure you fulfill all the requirements for the type of nursing degree you’re working for can help you chart a clear path toward graduation.

Nursing school can be expensive, and many students use federal student loans to help pay for it. They might also fill any funding gaps with private student loans. To better manage your monthly payments after graduation, you can consider refinancing student loans, especially if you can qualify for a lower interest rate and more favorable terms. Just be aware that refinancing federal student loans makes them ineligible for federal programs like income-driven repayment.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.


With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.

FAQs

What are the minimum requirements for nursing school?

The minimum nursing school requirements generally include graduating from high school with a diploma after taking science and math classes (such as chemistry, biology, and college- preparatory math), having a GPA of 2.7 or higher for an Associate Degree in Nursing program and 3.0 or higher for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, and passing grades on standardized tests such as the SATs. However, minimum requirements can vary from school to school, so check with each institution you’re applying to.

When do you take nursing school prerequisites?

You take nursing school prerequisites starting in high school with classes like biology, chemistry, and math, as well as standardized tests like the SATs. When you’re in nursing school, you’ll begin by taking foundational prerequisite classes and work your way up to higher-level classes as you work toward your degree.

What if my GPA is too low for nursing school?

There are some possible ways to get into nursing school even if your GPA is too low. While many programs require at least a 3.0 for admission to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, some schools are less selective than others. For instance, you could apply to a community college to earn a licensed practical nurse degree (LPN) and then transfer to a four-year college once your grades are higher. Also, consider doing volunteer work in a health care setting — some institutions give more weight than others to nonacademic activities like health-related volunteer work.


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Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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