Registered Nurse in Kennewick, WA

As a career analyst who’s spent years tracking the healthcare labor market in the Pacific Northwest, I can tell you that Kennewick, WA, offers a unique proposition for Registered Nurses. It sits at the heart of the Tri-Cities metro, a region heavily reliant on healthcare, government, and agriculture. This guide is designed to give you a clear, data-driven picture of what your career and life would look like here, from your paycheck to your neighborhood.

This isn’t a promotional brochure. It’s a breakdown of the numbers, the employers, and the day-to-day realities of being an RN in Kennewick.

The Salary Picture: Where Kennewick Stands

Let’s get straight to the numbers. The median salary for a Registered Nurse in Kennewick is $85,811 per year, or $41.26 per hour. The national average for RNs sits at $86,070 per year, meaning Kennewick pays very close to the national benchmark. However, the cost of living here is slightly lower than the U.S. average, which is a key advantage.

The local healthcare economy is steady, with 766 RN jobs currently in the metro area. The 10-year job growth projection is a modest but stable 6%, indicating consistent demand rather than explosive growth. Given the Tri-Cities' aging population and the presence of major medical facilities, this demand is likely to remain resilient.

Here’s how salary typically breaks down by experience level in this market:

Experience Level	Typical Years	Estimated Annual Salary Range
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$72,000 - $80,000
Mid-Career	3-9 years	$82,000 - $95,000
Senior	10-20 years	$92,000 - $105,000
Expert/Leadership	20+ years	$100,000 - $115,000+

Note: These ranges are estimates based on local job postings and industry surveys. Specialties and shift differentials can push these numbers higher.

Compared to other Washington cities, Kennewick offers a compelling balance. It pays less than the expensive hubs of Seattle and Bellevue, where RNs can earn well over $100,000, but significantly more than rural eastern Washington towns. Compared to Spokane (median ~$83,000), Kennewick’s salaries are slightly higher, though the cost of living is comparable. The real value here is the cost-of-living-adjusted salary.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

So, what does a $85,811 salary mean for your monthly budget? Let’s break it down. (Note: These are estimates for a single filer; your personal situation will vary.)

• Gross Monthly Income: ~$7,150
• After Federal Tax (~12% bracket): ~$6,290
• After WA State Tax (0%): Still ~$6,290 (Washington has no state income tax)
• After FICA (7.65%): ~$5,770

Estimated Monthly Take-Home Pay: ~$5,770

Rent: The average 1BR rent in Kennewick is $1,206/month.

• Monthly Budget Snapshot:
  • Take-Home Pay: $5,770
  • Rent: -$1,206
  • Remaining for Utilities, Food, Transport, Savings, Debt: $4,564

This is a healthy discretionary income for the region. You can comfortably cover utilities ($150), groceries ($400), a car payment/insurance (~$600), and still have over $3,000 for savings, student loans, or lifestyle. This strong disposable income is one of Kennewick’s biggest draws for nurses.

Can they afford to buy a home?
Yes, absolutely. As of late 2023, the median home price in Kennewick was around $360,000. With a 20% down payment ($72,000), a monthly mortgage (at ~6.5% interest) would be roughly $1,800-$1,900, including taxes and insurance. That’s manageable on a $85,811 salary, especially with dual incomes. Many nurses here do own homes, often within a few years of moving to the area.

Where the Jobs Are: Kennewick's Major Employers

The Tri-Cities is a healthcare hub, and Kennewick is central to it all. Your employment options are diverse, from large Level II trauma centers to specialized outpatient clinics.

1. Trios Health: The largest employer in the immediate area. Trios has a main hospital in downtown Kennewick and a growing network of clinics. They are known for strong maternity, surgical, and ER services. Hiring trends show steady demand for Med-Surg, L&D, and ICU nurses. They often offer sign-on bonuses for experienced RNs.

2. Kadlec Regional Medical Center: Located in nearby Richland (a 15-20 minute drive), Kadlec is a major regional referral center and a Level II trauma facility. It’s the largest healthcare employer in the Tri-Cities and offers the widest range of specialties, including oncology, neurology, and a dedicated heart institute. Competition for jobs here is high, but the career growth opportunities are extensive.

3. LifePoint Health / Lourdes Medical Center: Just across the river in Pasco, Lourdes is another key player. It’s part of a national network, which can sometimes mean more standardized processes. They have a strong focus on community health and often recruit for outpatient and home health roles.

4. VA Eastern Washington Health Care System: The Jonathan M. Wainwright Memorial VA Medical Center in nearby Walla Walla (about a 30-minute drive) is a major employer for RNs seeking federal benefits, job stability, and a different patient population. The commute is straightforward via US-12.

5. Local Health Districts & Clinics: The Benton-Franklin Health District and numerous private clinics (like Lugo Dental & Medical, or specialty practices in oncology and cardiology) provide consistent outpatient and public health nursing opportunities. These roles often offer a better work-life balance than hospital shifts.

6. Home Health & Hospice Agencies: Companies like Home Instead, Visiting Angels, and local branches of national hospice organizations are always looking for experienced RNs for case management and visit-based roles. This is a growing sector.

Insider Tip: Many nurses work per diem (PRN) at 2-3 facilities to maximize income and flexibility. The close proximity of Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco makes this a common and lucrative strategy.

Getting Licensed in WA

If you’re moving from another state, the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is your governing body. The process is straightforward but requires planning.

• Endorsement: If you hold a compact (eNLC) license from another state, you can practice in WA immediately but must apply for a WA multi-state license. If you’re from a non-compact state, you’ll apply for licensure by endorsement.
• Requirements: You’ll need an active, unrestricted RN license from another state, a completed application, and a criminal background check. Most importantly, you must show proof of 30 hours of continuing education completed within the last 5 years. If your previous state didn’t require CE, you’ll need to complete 30 hours before applying.
• Costs: The total cost for a new license by endorsement is approximately $165 (application fee: $130, background check: $35). The cost of the required CE courses varies, but expect to spend $100-$300.
• Timeline: From submitting a complete application to receiving a license can take 4-8 weeks. Start the process at least two months before your planned move. The DOH website has a clear “Nursing Licensure” section with all forms and details.

Best Neighborhoods for Registered Nurses

Kennewick is a spread-out city designed for cars. Your choice of neighborhood will depend on your desired commute, lifestyle, and budget.

1. Southridge: This is the newer, master-planned area on the city’s south side. It’s clean, quiet, and family-friendly with excellent schools. You’re close to shopping (Uptown Shopping Center), restaurants, and the Southridge Sports Complex. Commute to Trios is about 10-15 minutes. Average 1BR Rent: $1,250 - $1,400.

2. Downtown Kennewick: The historic heart of the city. You’ll find older homes, more walkability, and a growing scene of breweries and cafes. It’s close to Trios Hospital, making it ideal for walking or biking to work. The vibe is more urban and less suburban. Average 1BR Rent: $1,000 - $1,250.

3. West Kennewick (near Sacajawea State Park): Offers larger lots, more green space, and a quieter, more established feel. It’s a short drive to downtown and has easy access to I-82 for commuting to Richland or Pasco. Popular with nurses who want space and a slower pace. Average 1BR Rent: $1,100 - $1,300.

4. East Kennewick (near the Columbia River): This area provides beautiful views and proximity to the riverfront parks and trails. It’s a bit more spread out but offers a good balance between city amenities and natural surroundings. Commute is easy to all major hospitals. Average 1BR Rent: $1,150 - $1,350.

Insider Tip: Traffic in the Tri-Cities is generally mild, but the main arteries (George Washington Way, Highway 395, I-82) can congest during peak hours. Living near your primary workplace is a major quality-of-life win.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 10-year job growth of 6% suggests stability, but growth for an individual comes from specialization and advancement.

• Specialty Premiums: In Kennewick, specialties like ICU, OR, and L&D often command a $3-$7/hour premium over a base Med-Surg rate. Certifications (CCRN, CCRN-K, ONC) are highly valued and can boost your salary by 5-10%.
• Advancement Paths: The most common paths are:
  1. Clinical Ladder: Moving from RN I to RN III or IV based on experience, certifications, and committee work.
  2. Charge Nurse/Supervisory Roles: Leading a unit, which comes with a pay bump and salaried hours.
  3. Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): The Tri-Cities has several strong graduate nursing programs (like the one at Washington State University Tri-Cities or Columbia Basin College). Becoming an NP opens doors to higher salaries ($110,000+) and roles in primary care, specialty clinics, or urgent care.
• 10-Year Outlook: Demand will remain driven by an aging population and the retirement of seasoned nurses. The rise of outpatient surgery and telehealth will create new roles. Nurses who are tech-savvy and comfortable with autonomous practice will have the most options.

The Verdict: Is Kennewick Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Strong Salary-to-Cost-of-Living Ratio: Your $85,811 goes much further here than in Seattle.	Limited Specialties: While strong, the range of ultra-specialized fields (e.g., pediatric oncology, complex congenital heart) is smaller than in major metros.
Stable Job Market: 766 jobs and 6% growth mean you’re unlikely to struggle to find work.	Car-Dependent City: Public transit is limited. You’ll need a reliable vehicle.
Multiple Major Employers: You have real choice between hospital systems and settings.	Cultural & Recreational Scene is Smaller: Fewer museums, theaters, and major events than a large city.
Easy Commutes: No hours spent in gridlock. Most nurses live within a 20-minute drive of work.	Relative Isolation: It’s a 3+ hour drive to Seattle or Spokane. Air travel options are limited (GEG in Spokane is the closest major airport).
Outdoor Access: Instant access to the Columbia River, wine country, hiking, and skiing (Snoqualmie is ~3 hours).	Summers are Hot: Temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, which can be a shock for PNW newcomers.

Final Recommendation: Kennewick is an excellent choice for nurses who prioritize financial stability, a manageable commute, and a work-life balance over the amenities of a major metropolitan area. It’s ideal for mid-career nurses looking to buy a home, raise a family, or simply enjoy a lower-stress pace of life without sacrificing professional opportunities. If you’re seeking the pinnacle of medical innovation or a bustling arts scene, you may find it limiting. But for a solid career with a great quality of life, Kennewick is a hidden gem.

FAQs

1. How does the lack of a state income tax affect my pay?
This is a significant financial benefit. On a $85,811 salary, you avoid paying state income tax (which would be 0% to 10%+ in many other states). This effectively increases your take-home pay by thousands of dollars annually compared to states like Oregon or California.

2. What’s the cost of living really like?
With a Cost of Living Index of 99.0 (vs. US avg of 100), it’s nearly average. However, the $1,206 average rent is the key. Housing is the biggest expense, and it’s more affordable than the national average, especially compared to western Washington. Groceries, utilities, and transportation are very close to the national average.

3. Do I need to live in Kennewick proper?
No. Many nurses live in the surrounding areas like Richland, Pasco, or even smaller towns like Benton City or Prosser for a lower cost of living or more space. The commutes are reasonable (e.g., Richland to Kennewick is 15-20 minutes). Your choice should be based on where you work and your lifestyle preference.

4. Is it easy to find a nursing job here without experience?
Yes, the market is generally welcoming to new grads. Hospitals like Trios and Kadlec have formal residency programs. However, competition can be stiffer for the most desirable specialties (like NICU or PICU) or at the largest hospital (Kadlec). Being flexible with shifts (nights/weekends) and applying to multiple facilities will increase your chances significantly.

5. What is the nursing community like?
It’s tight-knit and collaborative. Because the healthcare community isn’t enormous, nurses often know each other across different facilities. The professional networks are strong, and there are active local chapters of nursing associations (like the ANA-WA). It’s a supportive environment where you can build a long-term career and professional relationships.

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Washington State Department of Health (DOH), Zillow Rent Data, Sperling's BestPlaces Cost of Living Index, and local employer job postings (2023-2024).