New York vs New Jersey: Healthcare Job Market Comparison
Same metro, different tax regime. NJ licensure offers similar pay with lower state income tax.
New Jersey
$106,990
avg RN salary
- Cost of living
- 114.1
- Top state income tax
- 10.75%
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New York | New Jersey |
|---|---|---|
| Avg RN salary (BLS May 2024) | $110,490 | $106,990 |
| Cost of living (100 = US avg) | 125.9 | 114.1 |
| State income tax (top rate) | 10.9% | 10.75% |
Salary figures are approximate, drawn from public sources including BLS.
Notable Health Systems
New York
- • NewYork-Presbyterian
- • NYU Langone Health
- • Mount Sinai
- • Northwell Health
New Jersey
- • RWJBarnabas Health
- • Hackensack Meridian
- • Atlantic Health
Frequently Asked Questions
Which state pays nurses more, New York or New Jersey?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), registered nurses in New York earn an average of $110,490, compared to $106,990 in New Jersey. The gap is roughly $3,500 per year before adjusting for cost of living.
How does the cost of living compare between New York and New Jersey?
Using the MERIC Q4 2024 cost-of-living index (100 = national average), New York is 125.9 and New Jersey is 114.1. New Jersey (114.1) is the more affordable of the two, while New York (125.9) is more expensive. Housing is typically the largest driver of these differences.
Which state has a more favorable tax environment for healthcare providers?
New York has a top state income tax rate of 10.9%, while New Jersey's top rate is 10.75%. Always factor in property tax, sales tax, and local taxes before making a relocation decision. States with no income tax often offset through higher sales or property taxes.
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