Side-by-Side Comparison

Metric Registered Nurses Physician Assistants
Median Annual Salary $89,010 $130,020
Median Hourly Wage $42.79 $62.51
10th Percentile $47,175 $68,911
90th Percentile $153,097 $223,634
Total Employed 3,200,990 148,000
Education Required Bachelor's degree Bachelor's degree
Job Growth (2022-2032) 13% - Much faster than average 13% - Much faster than average
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Which Should You Choose?

Choose Registered Nurses if...

  • You match the education requirements

View Registered Nurses salary details →

Choose Physician Assistants if...

  • You want higher median salary
  • You match the education requirements

View Physician Assistants salary details →