Registered Nurse in Burlington, VT

The Salary Picture: Where Burlington Stands

As a local, I can tell you that Burlington’s nursing salary story is a tale of two realities. On one hand, the pay is solid for Vermont and comes with the stability of a major regional medical hub. On the other, it’s a market that demands experience, and new grads often start at the lower end of the scale. The state’s largest metro area, anchored by the University of Vermont Medical Center, sets the tone for compensation across Chittenden County.

Let’s get straight to the numbers. According to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for Registered Nurses in the Burlington-South Burlington metro area is $86,070 per year. This translates to a median hourly rate of $41.38. It’s important to note that this median salary of $86,070/year aligns closely with the national average of $86,070/year, which is an interesting point. It means that while Burlington isn't a high-cost coastal city, it also isn’t a low-wage market. You’re paid a national-average wage in a city with a cost of living that hovers right at the US average.

The nursing job market here is competitive but stable. The BLS reports there are 401 jobs for Registered Nurses in the metro area. This isn't a massive number, but it represents a concentrated core of opportunity around the UVM Medical Center and its network. The 10-year job growth for nurses in Vermont is projected at 6%, which is slightly below the national average for the profession. This reflects the state’s aging population and the steady, predictable demand for healthcare services, rather than explosive growth.

Here’s how salaries typically break down by experience level in the Burlington market. These are generalized estimates based on local job postings and conversations with nurse managers; the provided median is a good anchor for the mid-career point.

Experience Level	Typical Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary Range	Key Local Notes
Entry-Level	0-2	$68,000 - $75,000	New grads often start on medical-surgical floors. UVM Medical Center's residency program is a primary pathway.
Mid-Career	3-8	$80,000 - $95,000	This is where the median of $86,070 falls. Specialties (ICU, ER, OR) add a premium.
Senior/Charge Nurse	8-15	$92,000 - $110,000	Leadership roles, charge nurse positions, and experienced specialists.
Expert/APRN	15+	$105,000 - $135,000+	Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Nurse Specialists, and managers. APRNs in Burlington can command salaries well over $110k.

Insider Tip: Burlington is not a city where you’ll find wildly inflated nursing salaries. The pay is fair, but the real draw is the quality of life, the patient population, and the professional environment at UVM Medical Center, which is a teaching hospital and a Level I Trauma Center. The salary is competitive for Vermont. If you’re comparing offers, look at the total package: benefits, tuition reimbursement, and shift differentials (evenings, nights, weekends) can add 10-15% to your base.

Comparison to Other Vermont Cities:

• Burlington ($86,070): The highest-paying market in the state, with the most job variety and the only Level I trauma center.
• Montpelier/Barre ($81,200): The state capital region pays slightly less, with jobs concentrated at Central Vermont Medical Center.
• Rutland ($79,500): A smaller city with a community hospital focus. Lower cost of living but also fewer specialty roles.
• St. Johnsbury/NEK ($76,800): The Northeast Kingdom has the lowest nursing salaries in Vermont, with very limited job openings.

For a nurse moving from a high-cost state like California or New York, the salary might seem low. But for a nurse considering a move from another New England state or the Midwest, it’s a competitive offer paired with a unique lifestyle.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s ground the $86,070/year salary in the reality of Burlington living. The cost of living index here is exactly 100.0 (US avg = 100), which is deceptively simple. It means your dollars stretch about as far as the national average, but the breakdown is different. The biggest variable is housing.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Pre-Tax):

• Gross Monthly Income: $86,070 / 12 = $7,172.50
• Estimated Monthly Taxes (Federal + State + FICA): ~$1,900 - $2,100 (varies by deductions)
• Estimated Net Monthly Take-Home: $5,072 - $5,272

Now, let's factor in rent. The city’s average 1BR rent is $1,441/month. This is a realistic figure for a decent apartment in a safe, accessible neighborhood.

Sample Monthly Budget (Net Income of $5,150):

• Rent (1BR): $1,441
• Utilities (Electric, Heat, Internet): $220
• Groceries: $400
• Car Payment/Insurance/Public Transit (Burlington has a bus system, but many drive): $400
• Student Loans (if applicable): $300
• Health Insurance (if not covered by employer): $150
• Personal/Miscellaneous (Dining, Entertainment, Savings): $400
• Remaining Buffer: $1,839

This budget is manageable, especially if you have a partner or roommate to split the largest expense—rent. The key is that housing will be your single biggest cost.

Can they afford to buy a home?
This is the tougher question. The median home price in Chittenden County is approximately $500,000. Using standard lending rules (20% down, 30-year mortgage at ~6.5%), the monthly payment would be around $2,500-$2,700, not including taxes and insurance. That’s roughly 50% of your net take-home pay, which is not advisable.

Insider Tip: Most nurses I know in Burlington rent, especially early in their careers. Some buy with a partner or after reaching a senior/expert level salary. A common path is to work in Burlington for 3-5 years, gain experience, and then purchase in a more affordable nearby town like Essex Junction, Milton, or Hinesburg, where median home prices are closer to $400,000-$450,000.

Where the Jobs Are: Burlington's Major Employers

Burlington’s healthcare scene is dominated by one giant, but several other key players offer unique opportunities. Hiring trends are consistently strong for experienced nurses, especially in critical care, OR, and home health.

1. The University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMC): The absolute anchor. This is a 500-bed, Level I Trauma, teaching hospital. It’s the largest employer in the state. You’ll find every specialty here: specialized ICUs, a comprehensive cancer center, a renowned cardiac program, and a dedicated pediatric unit. Hiring Trend: They run a highly competitive Nurse Residency Program for new grads. For experienced nurses, they’re always hiring for med-surg, critical care, and procedural areas. Salaries here are at the top of the local market.

2. The University of Vermont Health Network (UVMHN): This is the parent system that includes UVMC and extends across the state. It also includes Central Vermont Medical Center in Berlin (near Montpelier) and Porter Medical Center in Middlebury. If you’re open to a 30-45 minute commute, these community hospitals offer a different pace and strong community ties.

3. The Vermont Department of Health: For nurses interested in public health, epidemiology, or community outreach, the state health department has positions for Public Health Nurses. The work is less bedside and more policy, education, and population health. Salaries may be slightly lower than bedside hospital work, but the hours are typically M-F.

4. Home Health & Hospice Agencies: Agencies like Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) of Chittenden & Grand Isle Counties and The Committees on Temporary Shelter (COTS) have nursing roles. This is a growing field, especially with Vermont’s aging population. The work is autonomous, community-based, and offers a different kind of reward. Pay is often salaried or per-visit, and can be competitive with hospital jobs.

5. Burlington Health & Rehab & other Long-Term Care Facilities: Nursing homes and rehab centers are always in need of nurses, particularly for night shifts and skilled nursing. This is a great place to gain experience in chronic care, medication management, and patient education. The pace can be demanding, but the demand for staff is high.

6. Planned Parenthood Northern New England: For nurses passionate about reproductive health, this organization has a clinical and educational presence in Burlington. Roles can include clinical nursing and patient education.

7. Private Practice & Specialty Clinics: There are numerous specialty clinics in the South Burlington area (orthopedics, dermatology, cardiology) that employ RNs for procedure assistance, patient education, and infusion therapy. These often offer more regular hours.

Insider Tip: The UVM Medical Center uses a single, centralized online application system. It’s competitive. A tailored cover letter that speaks to their mission of "teaching, research, and patient care" is crucial. For other employers, a personal connection or a direct application via their website can be more effective.

Getting Licensed in VT

If you’re moving from another state, you’ll need to obtain a Vermont nursing license. The process is straightforward but requires advance planning.

State-Specific Requirements:
The Vermont Board of Nursing (part of the Office of Professional Regulation) oversees licensure. The primary pathway for an already licensed RN from another state is Endorsement.

1. Active Licensure: You must hold a current, unencumbered RN license in another state.
2. Education: You must have graduated from an approved nursing program (which most accredited US programs are).
3. NCLEX-RN: You must have passed the NCLEX-RN exam. If you’re already licensed, you’ve done this.
4. Background Check: A fingerprint-based criminal background check is required.
5. Jurisprudence Exam: Vermont requires a passing score on the state-specific jurisprudence exam (a test on Vermont laws and rules for nurses). This is taken online after you submit your application.

Costs:

• Application Fee: ~$150 (non-refundable)
• Fingerprinting Fee: ~$50 (varies by vendor)
• Jurisprudence Exam Fee: ~$25
• Total Initial Cost: ~$225

Timeline to Get Started:

• Immediate: Start the application on the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation (OPR) website. Gather your transcripts, proof of current license, and schedule your fingerprinting.
• 2-4 Weeks: Submit your application, fees, and supporting documents. You will receive instructions to take the online jurisprudence exam.
• 1-2 Weeks: Study for and take the jurisprudence exam. It’s a relatively short exam focused on Vermont-specific rules.
• 4-8 Weeks: After a complete application is received, the Board processes it. You can check the status online. Once approved, your license number will be posted, and you can legally work as an RN in Vermont.

Insider Tip: Start this process at least 3 months before you plan to move. The Board can have backlogs, especially during peak seasons. Also, if you hold a license in a state that is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), you can practice in Vermont without obtaining a Vermont license, as Vermont is an NLC state. This is a huge advantage for nurses from states like New Hampshire, Maine, or Texas.

Best Neighborhoods for Registered Nurses

Where you live in Burlington drastically affects your commute, lifestyle, and budget. As a local, here’s the breakdown from a nurse’s perspective:

1. The Old North End (The "ONE"): Vibe: Historic, diverse, and walkable. It’s close to downtown and has a strong community feel. Commute: Easy 5-10 minute drive or bus ride to UVM Medical Center. Rent Estimate: $1,300 - $1,600 for a 1BR. Best For: Nurses who want to be in the heart of the city, enjoy walkable neighborhoods, and don’t mind older apartment stock.

2. South End (SoDo): Vibe: Trendy, artistic, and slightly more residential. Home to the popular "South End Arts District." Commute: 10-15 minute drive to the hospital. Rent Estimate: $1,500 - $1,800 for a 1BR. Best For: Nurses who value a creative scene, good local restaurants, and a slightly quieter neighborhood feel while still being close to action.

3. South Burlington: Vibe: Suburban, convenient, and family-friendly. This is where many medical professionals and families choose to live. Commute: 10-20 minute drive. It’s also well-served by bus lines. Rent Estimate: $1,600 - $1,900 for a 1BR. Best For: Nurses who prioritize convenience (big-box stores, easy highway access), have or plan to have a family, and want a more modern apartment or condo.

4. The New North End (NNE): Vibe: Quiet, residential, and established. It’s farther from downtown but has its own commercial center. Commute: 15-25 minute drive. Rent Estimate: $1,350 - $1,600 for a 1BR. Best For: Nurses who want a peaceful, family-oriented neighborhood with easy access to Lake Champlain parks and don’t mind a longer commute.

Insider Tip: If you work night shift, your commute is a non-issue, and you might prioritize a quieter neighborhood for daytime sleep. The Old North End and South End offer the best balance of walkability and proximity. South Burlington is the winner for sheer convenience and modern amenities.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Burlington offers solid, if not explosive, career growth. The path is less about jumping between hospitals and more about deepening your expertise within the UVM Health Network.

Specialty Premiums & Advancement Paths:

• Critical Care (ICU, CVICU, ER): These are the highest-paid bedside specialties. UVM Medical Center has highly specialized units, and nurses here often pursue CCRN certification, which can lead to a pay bump and leadership opportunities.
• Operating Room (OR) & Perioperative: These are in high demand and offer a very different skill set. OR nurses often train on the job and can become certified (CNOR).
• Nurse Practitioner (APRN): This is the most significant career advancement in terms of salary and autonomy. Vermont has a strong scope of practice for NPs. The University of Vermont offers excellent graduate programs. An APRN in Burlington can easily earn $110,000 - $135,000+.
• Clinical Ladder: UVM Medical Center and other larger employers have clinical ladder programs. By pursuing certifications (like CCRN, OCN), mentoring, and participating in committees, you can advance from a Staff Nurse I to a Nurse III, with corresponding pay increases.

10-Year Outlook:
The 6% job growth is driven by retirements of an aging nursing workforce and the steady demand from an aging patient population. The outlook is stable. The biggest factor will be the recruitment and retention efforts of the UVM Health Network. They are actively working to improve nurse-to-patient ratios and benefits to remain competitive. For a nurse willing to specialize and stay with the system, there is a clear, defined path to a senior or expert-level role.

Insider Tip: The best way to grow in Burlington is to get your foot in the door at UVM Medical Center, gain 2-3 years of solid experience in a high-acuity area, and then either specialize further or pursue your APRN. The network’s size means you can move between different units or even facilities (e.g., from UVMC to Central Vermont) without leaving your employer.

The Verdict: Is Burlington Right for You?

Burlington is a niche market. It’s not for everyone, but for the right nurse, it’s a fantastic place to build a career and a life.

Pros	Cons
Stable, High-Quality Employer: UVM Medical Center is a renowned teaching hospital with excellent resources and a strong reputation.	High Housing Costs: Rent is the biggest financial burden, and buying a home is out of reach for many single-income nurses.
Competitive Salary for Vermont: The median of $86,070 is strong for the region and comes with good benefits.	Limited Job Market: With only 401 nursing jobs, there’s less competition for employers and fewer options if you want to leave a bad job.
Outdoor Lifestyle: Unbeatable access to Lake Champlain, mountains, and hiking. A fantastic work-life balance if you prioritize the outdoors.	"Small City" Limitations: Limited nightlife, shopping, and cultural diversity compared to larger metros. It can feel insular.
Compact License Advantage: If your home state is NLC