Registered Nurse in Derry CDP, NH

The Salary Picture: Where Derry CDP Stands

As someone who’s watched the healthcare landscape in Rockingham County for years, I can tell you that Derry’s nursing salaries are a quiet success story. They sit consistently above the national average, which is a key draw for RNs from more expensive metros. The median salary for a Registered Nurse in Derry CDP is $89,065 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $42.82. This is noticeably higher than the national average of $86,070, giving you a tangible financial edge in a region with a strong healthcare ecosystem.

The job market here is stable and growing. There are approximately 195 jobs for RNs in the metro area, and the 10-year job growth is projected at 6%. This isn’t explosive growth, but it’s steady—indicating a mature market with reliable demand, especially as the population ages. You’re not competing for a handful of roles; you’re stepping into a network.

Here’s how experience typically translates to pay in this area:

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary (Derry CDP)	Notes
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$72,000 - $78,000	New grads often start at Derry Hospital or in home health.
Mid-Career (3-7 years)	$85,000 - $92,000	The median sits here, especially with a BSN.
Senior (8-15 years)	$95,000 - $105,000	Charge nurse roles, specialty certifications (like OCN, CCRN).
Expert (15+ years)	$105,000+	Management, NP/CRNA, or specialized clinical roles.

Compared to other New Hampshire cities, Derry holds a solid middle ground. It’s more affordable than Portsmouth (where pay is higher but cost of living is punishing) and more lucrative than Manchester, despite being part of the same broader metro. It offers a balance that’s hard to find elsewhere in the state.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get brutally honest about your budget. Earning $89,065 gross in New Hampshire is great—no state income tax helps—but the cost of living here is 111.6 (US avg = 100), and housing is the biggest factor. The average 1BR rent is $1,506/month.

Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown for a single RN earning the median:

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Net Income (after federal tax, FICA, etc.)	~$5,300	Based on NH’s no state tax. Use a paycheck calculator for precision.
Rent (1BR average)	$1,506	This is for a decent, modern apartment in a safe area.
Utilities (electric, heat, internet)	$250	NH winters spike heating costs.
Groceries	$450	Slightly above national average.
Car Payment/Insurance	$450	Essential; public transit is limited.
Gas/Commute	$150	Derry is car-centric.
Health Insurance (if not fully covered)	$200	Varies by employer.
Miscellaneous/Debt/Savings	$1,294	This is your buffer for savings, retirement, fun, and emergencies.

So, yes, you can afford a 1BR apartment on a single RN salary, but it’s tight if you have significant student debt or a car payment. The leftover $1,300/month for savings and discretionary spending is manageable but requires discipline.

Can you afford to buy a home? This is the tougher question. The median home price in Derry is around $420,000. With a 20% down payment ($84,000), a mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would likely exceed $2,200/month. That would be over 40% of your net income, which is a heavy burden. Buying a home here typically requires a dual-income household or a significant down payment from savings. It’s not impossible, but it’s a long-term goal, not an immediate one for a single RN on this salary.

Where the Jobs Are: Derry CDP's Major Employers

The job market is anchored by a few key players. I’ve seen dozens of nurses transition between these employers, often for better hours, a different specialty, or a shorter commute.

1. Elliot Hospital (Manchester, NH): While not in Derry proper, it’s the dominant regional medical center and a major employer for Derry residents. The commute is about 25-30 minutes. They have huge departments in Med-Surg, ICU, ER, and maternity. Hiring is continuous, especially for Med-Surg and ER. Insider tip: Elliot is known for its strong internal tuition reimbursement for BSN and graduate degrees.

2. Parkland Medical Center (Derry, NH): This is the cornerstone hospital in Derry. Part of the HCA Healthcare network, it’s a 74-bed facility. It’s a great place for new grads to get broad experience without being overwhelmed by a massive academic center. Key units include Medical-Surgical, ICU, and a growing Orthopedics department. Hiring trends favor nurses with a BSN.

3. Home Health & Hospice Agencies: Companies like Visiting Nurse Association of New Hampshire (VNA of NH) and Heartland Home Health have strong presences in Rockingham County. This is a preferred option for nurses seeking autonomy and a 9-to-5 schedule. The pay is competitive, often with mileage reimbursement. Demand is high due to an aging population.

4. New Hampshire Hospital (Concord, NH): A 45-minute commute, but this state-operated psychiatric facility is a major employer for behavioral health RNs. It offers unique experience and excellent state benefits. Hiring can be cyclical but steady.

5. Private Medical Practices & Specialty Clinics: Derry has a thriving network of private practices—orthopedics, cardiology, oncology, and family medicine. Employers like Derry Medical Services or Seacoast Cancer Center (with a location in nearby Portsmouth) often hire outpatient or ambulatory care RNs. These roles typically offer a more predictable M-F schedule.

6. Long-Term Care & Rehabilitation: Facilities like Rockingham County Nursing Home (in Brentwood) and Sunnyvale Nursing Home (in Derry) are always in need of skilled nurses. It’s a different pace but offers deep, longitudinal patient relationships.

Getting Licensed in NH

New Hampshire’s licensing is straightforward but has specific steps. The New Hampshire Board of Nursing handles this. The cost is approximately $185 for an initial license application.

Timeline to Get Started:

1. If you’re already an RN in another state: Apply for licensure by endorsement. You’ll need verification from your current state, proof of a passing NCLEX score, and a background check. Processing can take 4-8 weeks. You can work under a temporary permit while it’s processed if you have a job offer.
2. If you’re a new graduate: You’ll apply for a temporary permit after graduating, then schedule your NCLEX. Once you pass, you get your full license. The entire process from application to holding your license can be 2-3 months.
3. Compact State Advantage: New Hampshire is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). If you hold a multi-state license from a compact state (like ME, RI, VT, CT, etc.), you can practice in NH without getting a new license. This is a huge advantage for nurses moving from nearby New England states.

Best Neighborhoods for Registered Nurses

Where you live in Derry impacts your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a local’s guide:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Est. 1BR Rent	Best For
North Derry	Quieter, residential, slightly farther from downtown. Easy access to I-93 for commuting to Manchester.	$1,350 - $1,500	Nurses who want peace, lower rent, and don't mind a 10-15 min drive to Derry Medical Center.
Derry Village/Near Main St.	Walkable to shops, restaurants, and parks. The heart of the town. Commute to Parkland Medical is under 5 mins.	$1,500 - $1,650	Urban-minded nurses who value a short commute and a social, vibrant atmosphere.
East Derry	More suburban, family-oriented. Closer to the highway (Rte 102). Good mix of apartments and condos.	$1,400 - $1,550	Nurses with families or those who want a classic suburban feel with easy highway access.
Londonderry Border (S. Derry)	Very close to the Manchester border. You get Derry’s vibe with quicker access to Elliot Hospital and Manchester amenities.	$1,550 - $1,700	Nurses who prioritize a super-commute to Manchester hospitals or want more nightlife options nearby.

Insider Tip: Look for apartments along Ash Street or Crystal Avenue—they offer good value and are centrally located. Avoid the immediate vicinity of the busy intersections on Route 102 if you value quiet.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Your career in Derry can evolve significantly. Earning the median $89,065 is just the start.

• Specialty Premiums: Certifications directly boost your pay. A Certified Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) can add $5-8/hour. An Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) or Certified Nurse Operating Room (CNOR) is highly valued at Elliot and Parkland. These often come with a 5-10% salary bump.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Clinical Ladder: Most hospitals have a clinical ladder program. Moving from RN I to RN II/III (based on experience, education, and certifications) comes with a pay increase.
  2. Charge Nurse/Team Lead: A step into management without leaving bedside care. Requires strong leadership and typically adds $5-10/hour.
  3. Advanced Practice: Becoming a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is the major leap. NPs in Derry can earn $115,000 - $130,000+. This requires a Master’s or DNP (2-3 years of school), but local universities like SNHU and Rivier University have strong programs.
• 10-Year Outlook: With a 6% job growth, the market will remain stable. Demand will be highest in geriatrics, home health, and behavioral health. Nurses with a BSN will have a distinct edge over those with only an Associate’s. The rise of telehealth and outpatient care will also create new roles.

The Verdict: Is Derry CDP Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Above-average salary relative to cost of living.	Housing costs are high for the region, straining single incomes.
Stable, growing job market with multiple major employers.	Car-dependency is absolute; public transit is minimal.
No state income tax boosts your take-home pay.	Winters can be harsh and long, which affects commute and lifestyle.
Prime location between Boston, the Seacoast, and the Lakes Region.	Diversity in Derry is limited compared to major metro areas.
Balance of suburban life with access to urban amenities (Manchester).	Daycare costs are high if you have or plan to have children.

Final Recommendation:
Derry CDP is an excellent choice for a mid-career Registered Nurse (3-10 years experience) who values a stable job market, a reasonable commute, and a community feel. It’s a poor choice for a new grad expecting a high-energy, diverse city life or for anyone unwilling to drive. If you’re looking to build a long-term career without the overwhelming competition and cost of Boston, and you don’t mind New England winters, Derry offers a pragmatic and financially viable path.

FAQs

Q: Is the cost of living really that high compared to other NH towns?
A: Yes. While NH has no income tax, property taxes are very high, which is baked into rent and home prices. Derry is more expensive than towns further north (like Concord) but cheaper than the Seacoast (Portsmouth). It’s a mid-tier price point for the state.

Q: How competitive is the job market for new nurses?
A: It’s moderately competitive. Hospitals like Parkland and Elliot are the primary training grounds. Having your BSN and being willing to work night/weekend shifts will significantly improve your chances. Networking with nurses already in the area is key.

Q: Can I live in Derry and commute to Boston?
A: It’s possible but difficult. The commute to downtown Boston is 60-90 minutes without traffic. With traffic, it can be 2+ hours. It’s not a sustainable daily commute for most, though some do it for premium Boston salaries.

Q: What’s the best way to network locally?
A: Join the New Hampshire Nurses Association (NHNA). Attend their local chapter meetings. Also, hospitals often host open houses or nursing career fairs—check Elliot and Parkland’s HR pages. LinkedIn is also useful for connecting with nurse managers in the area.

Q: Are there loan repayment programs in NH?
A: Yes. The NH State Loan Repayment Program (SLRP) offers up to $75,000 for two years of service in a designated Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA). Many clinics and rural health centers in Rockingham County qualify. It’s worth applying for if you have federal student loans.