Registered Nurse in Jackson, MS

The Salary Picture: Where Jackson Stands

As a local, I can tell you that Jackson's nursing salaries tell a story of stability, not explosive growth. The median salary for a Registered Nurse (RN) here is $83,668/year, translating to an hourly rate of $40.23/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $86,070/year, but the cost of living in the Jackson metro area makes that gap feel less significant. With a cost of living index of 90.7 (where the U.S. average is 100), your dollar stretches further here. The metro area, with a population of 143,633, supports 1,292 nursing jobs, and the 10-year job growth projection is a modest but steady 6%. This isn't a boomtown for healthcare jobs, but it's a dependable market.

To understand where you might fit into this salary picture, here’s a breakdown by experience level. These are typical ranges based on local hospital pay scales and industry reports.

Experience Level	Typical Years in Practice	Estimated Annual Salary Range (Jackson, MS)
Entry-Level RN	0-2 years	$72,000 - $78,000
Mid-Career RN	3-8 years	$80,000 - $90,000
Senior RN / Charge Nurse	9-15 years	$88,000 - $100,000
Expert/Specialized RN	15+ years	$95,000 - $115,000+

Insider Tip: Your specialty has a huge impact. A Med-Surg RN at the median will hit the $83,668 mark, but an RN in the ICU, OR, or as a Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) can command a premium of 10-25% above the median.

When compared to other major Mississippi cities, Jackson holds a unique position. It's the state capital and healthcare hub, so it has more specialty opportunities than Gulfport or Hattiesburg, but the salaries for bedside RNs are very similar statewide. The real differentiator is the volume and variety of employers, from major academic medical centers to community hospitals and outpatient clinics.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about what $83,668/year means for your monthly budget. This is a practical look, not just gross pay.

Monthly Take-Home (Estimate):

• Gross Monthly: $6,972
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, State, FICA ~25%): -$1,743
• Estimated Net Monthly Income: ~$5,229

Now, let's factor in the cost of living, starting with the biggest expense: rent. The average 1BR rent in Jackson is $997/month. This varies by neighborhood, but it's a good baseline.

Sample Monthly Budget Breakdown (Individual RN)

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR Apartment)	$997	Varies by neighborhood (see below)
Utilities	$150	Electricity, water, gas, internet
Groceries	$400
Car Payment/Insurance	$400	Jackson is car-dependent
Gas	$120	Commute varies by location
Health Insurance	$200	(Employer-subsidized)
Misc/Entertainment	$500	Dining out, hobbies, etc.
Savings/Debt	$1,462	401k, student loans, savings
TOTAL	~$4,229	Leaves a healthy buffer

Can they afford to buy a home?
Yes, absolutely. With a $5,229 monthly take-home and a $4,229 estimated living budget, you have a surplus of $1,000/month. This can be directed towards a down payment and mortgage. The median home price in the Jackson metro is roughly $180,000-$220,000. With a 10% down payment ($18,000-$22,000), a 30-year mortgage at ~7% would have a monthly payment (including taxes and insurance) of $1,200-$1,400. This is very manageable on a single RN income here, a stark contrast to major coastal cities.

Where the Jobs Are: Jackson's Major Employers

Jackson's healthcare scene is dominated by a few large players. The job market is stable, and hiring is consistent, especially for experienced nurses and those in critical care. The 10-year growth of 6% means new positions will open up, primarily to replace retirees and to support expansion in outpatient and specialty services.

Here are the key employers you need to know:

1. University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC): The state's only Level I trauma center and the largest employer. It's a teaching hospital with massive research and specialty programs. Hiring is constant, especially for ICU, OR, and Med-Surg. Insider Tip: UMMC offers tuition reimbursement, a huge perk for RNs looking to advance to a BSN or MSN.

2. St. Dominic Hospital: A major 571-bed acute care facility part of the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System. It's known for a strong cardiac program and a more community-focused feel than UMMC. They have a large ER and are a frequent employer of new grads.

3. Merit Health Central: A 326-bed hospital in the Jackson metro with a focus on general surgery, orthopedics, and women's services. It's a key player in the broader network and often has openings for Med-Surg and specialty floor nurses.

4. Baptist Memorial Hospital - Yazoo City: While not in central Jackson, it's part of the regional network and a major employer for nurses in the surrounding areas. It offers a different, often less urban, practice environment.

5. Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH): For RNs interested in public health, this is the primary employer. Roles include community health nurses, epidemiologists, and clinic nurses. The pace is different from hospital bedside care, with a focus on population health.

6. VA Medical Center (G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery): A large federal employer with excellent benefits and job security. It serves the veteran population and has a wide range of specialties. Hiring can be more bureaucratic but is steady.

Hiring Trends: There's a strong push for BSN-prepared nurses, especially at UMMC and St. Dominic. Hospitals are also investing in nurse residency programs for new grads. Experienced nurses in critical care, labor & delivery, and OR have their pick of positions.

Getting Licensed in MS

If you're moving from another state, you'll need to get licensed by the Mississippi State Board of Nursing (MSBON).

Requirements:

• For Endorsement (If you hold a compact license): If your home state is part of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), you can practice in Mississippi without a new license. MS is a compact state. Insider Tip: Verify your state's status on the NCSBN website; this is the fastest path.
• For Non-Compact States: You must apply for licensure by examination or endorsement. The process includes a background check, proof of graduation from an approved nursing program, and passing the NCLEX (if not already licensed).
• Costs: Application fee is $100 (endorsement). The background check is $50. Total initial cost is around $150.
• Timeline: The process can take 4-8 weeks for endorsement, especially if your original state verifies promptly. Start the application as soon as you accept a job offer.

Action Step: Visit the official Mississippi State Board of Nursing website (msbn.ms.gov) for the most current forms and instructions. Do not rely on third-party sites for this critical information.

Best Neighborhoods for Registered Nurses

Commuting in Jackson is a car-centric affair, but choosing the right neighborhood can save you time and keep your rent in check. Here are four areas popular with healthcare professionals.

1. Flowood/Rankin County: This is where many UMMC and St. Dominic nurses live. It's a sprawling suburb with excellent schools, newer apartments, and a lower crime rate than parts of Jackson proper. Commute to UMMC is 15-20 minutes.

   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $1,100 - $1,300/month

2. Ridgeland/Madison (North of I-20): Upscale, safe, and with a great quality of life. It's a bit farther from UMMC (30-minute commute) but closer to St. Dominic and other employers. More retail and dining options.

   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $1,200 - $1,500/month

3. Belhaven (East Jackson): This historic neighborhood is closer to downtown and UMMC (10-15 minute commute). It has a walkable, college-town vibe (near Millsaps College) with older, charming homes and some new apartment complexes. It's more urban and shows its age in some parts.

   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $900 - $1,200/month

4. Pearl (East of Jackson): A separate city, but part of the metro. It's affordable, has a convenient location near I-20, and is a straight shot to UMMC (15 minutes). It's a practical, no-frills choice for nurses focused on saving money.

   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $850 - $1,050/month

Insider Tip: Traffic on I-55 and I-20 during rush hour can add 10-15 minutes to any commute. Living north of I-20 for St. Dominic or south for UMMC is a common strategic choice.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The nursing career ladder in Jackson is well-defined, but you have to be intentional.

Specialty Premiums:

• CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist): The top earner, often $140,000+. Requires a master's or doctorate, high competition for slots.
• Nurse Practitioner (NP): $110,000 - $130,000. MS allows NPs full practice authority, which is a major plus. UMMC has a strong NP program.
• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): $105,000 - $125,000. Focus on a specific population or system (e.g., diabetes, wound care).
• Charge Nurse/Manager: $95,000 - $110,000. Requires leadership skills and often a BSN/MSN.

Advancement Paths:

1. Bede to BSN: If you have an ADN, most major employers (especially UMMC) have programs to get your BSN, often with tuition assistance.
2. Specialization: Gain 2-3 years of Med-Surg experience, then certify in ICU, ER, or OR. This is the fastest path to a higher salary.
3. Advanced Practice: Pursue an MSN to become an NP or CRNA. UMMC's School of Nursing is a top regional institution for this.

10-Year Outlook (Based on 6% Growth):
The job market will remain stable. The biggest driver will be an aging population requiring more chronic disease management and an increase in outpatient surgery centers. This means more jobs in home health, hospice, and ambulatory surgery. Nurses with certifications and advanced degrees will see the most opportunities and the highest salaries.

The Verdict: Is Jackson Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: A median salary of $83,668 goes very far here. Homeownership is attainable.	Limited Housing Stock in Prime Areas: The best apartments and homes go fast; you need to be proactive.
Stable Job Market: Large, established employers offer job security and benefits.	Car-Dependent City: Public transit is limited; you will need a reliable car.
Low Competition (Relatively): Unlike major metros, you won't face hundreds of applicants for a single RN position.	Urban Challenges: Jackson faces issues with crime and poverty, which can be visible in certain neighborhoods. Do your homework on specific areas.
Strong Professional Community: Being the state hub means conferences, workshops, and networking are accessible.	Slower Pace: If you crave the energy of a NYC or Chicago, Jackson's slower pace might feel limiting.
Great Food & Culture: The soul food scene is legendary, and there's a deep sense of history and community.	Weather: Summers are long, hot, and humid. Not for everyone.

Final Recommendation:
Jackson is an excellent choice for the practical, financially-minded RN. It's ideal for those who want to build a stable career, buy a home, and raise a family without the crushing debt of coastal cities. It's less ideal for the RN who thrives on the constant, high-energy pace of a mega-city or who is unwilling to drive everywhere. The opportunities are here, but you have to be self-motivated to find them.

FAQs

Q: Is the salary in Jackson enough to live comfortably as a single person?
A: Yes. With a net monthly income of over $5,200 and average rent under $1,000, you have a significant buffer for savings, debt, and leisure. The cost of living is the key factor that makes this possible.

Q: I'm a new grad. Will I have trouble finding a job?
A: Competition is moderate. Large hospitals like UMMC and St. Dominic have nurse residency programs designed for new grads. The key is to apply early (final semester), have a clean professional social media presence, and be willing to work night/weekend shifts to get your foot in the door.

Q: Do I need a BSN to get hired at the top hospitals?
A: It's highly recommended and increasingly required. UMMC strongly prefers BSNs for new hires and requires current nurses to obtain one within a set timeframe. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement to help you get there.

Q: What's the typical shift like?
A: 12-hour shifts (7a-7p or 7p-7a) are the hospital standard. This can mean 3-4 days on, followed by several days off. Many nurses appreciate the compressed schedule, but it can be physically demanding.

Q: How is the nursing community in Jackson?
A: It's a close-knit group. The Mississippi Nurses Association (MNA) has a strong presence, and there are regular conferences and events. Because the city is a hub, it's easy to network and find mentors from various specialties.