Average nurse salary by country
If you’ve ever wondered how nurse salaries compare globally, you’re not alone. Many nurses are exploring international opportunities, travel contracts, or even permanent relocation.
In this guide, we break down the average nurse salary in 10 countries outside the United States, showing both the local currency and the equivalent amount in U.S. dollars (USD) for easy comparison.
Note: Salaries are national averages and may vary by region, specialty, and experience level.
🌍 1. United Kingdom
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Average Salary: £33,000 per year
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Approx. USD Equivalent: ~$42,000
In the UK, most registered nurses working in the NHS are paid under the Agenda for Change pay scale, typically falling under Band 5–6 depending on experience.
London and specialty roles (ICU, emergency, advanced practice) may earn more due to cost-of-living adjustments and allowances.
🇨🇦 2. Canada
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Average Salary: CAD 75,000 per year
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Approx. USD Equivalent: ~$56,000
Nurse salaries in Canada vary by province, with Alberta, Ontario, and British Columbia often offering higher wages.
Canadian nurses also benefit from strong union representation and provincial collective bargaining agreements, which can improve compensation and working conditions.
🇦🇺 3. Australia
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Average Salary: AUD 75,000 per year
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Approx. USD Equivalent: ~$50,000
Australia consistently ranks among the higher-paying countries for registered nurses outside the U.S.
Pay is structured through state-based awards and enterprise agreements. Rural placements and specialty roles may offer additional allowances.
🇩🇪 4. Germany
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Average Salary: €38,000 per year
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Approx. USD Equivalent: ~$41,000
Nursing salaries in Germany have improved in recent years due to staffing shortages and workforce reforms.
Public hospitals follow standardized wage agreements, while private facilities may vary slightly.
🇫🇷 5. France
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Average Salary: €30,000 per year
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Approx. USD Equivalent: ~$33,000
French nurses working in public hospitals are paid under government salary grids.
While base salaries may appear lower compared to North America, France offers universal healthcare, social protections, and generous paid leave.
🇪🇸 6. Spain
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Average Salary: €26,000 per year
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Approx. USD Equivalent: ~$29,000
Spanish nurse salaries depend on region and whether employment is within the public health system or private facilities.
Economic conditions and regional budgets can influence pay scales significantly.
🇳🇱 7. Netherlands
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Average Salary: €38,000 per year
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Approx. USD Equivalent: ~$41,000
The Netherlands offers competitive wages relative to much of Europe.
Nursing pay is typically negotiated under collective labor agreements and may include additional benefits such as pension contributions and paid vacation.
🇸🇪 8. Sweden
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Average Salary: SEK 380,000 per year
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Approx. USD Equivalent: ~$36,000
Swedish nurses benefit from strong social welfare systems and structured public-sector compensation.
Although base pay may be lower than in some Western countries, Sweden provides extensive parental leave and work-life balance protections.
🇯🇵 9. Japan
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Average Salary: ¥4,500,000 per year
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Approx. USD Equivalent: ~$31,000
Nursing salaries in Japan vary by hospital type and geographic area.
Urban hospitals, especially in Tokyo, may offer higher wages compared to rural regions.
🇿🇦 10. South Africa
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Average Salary: ZAR 280,000 per year
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Approx. USD Equivalent: ~$15,000
South African nurse salaries are significantly lower when converted to USD.
Compensation varies between public and private sectors, with private hospital groups often paying higher rates than government facilities.
📊 Which Country Pays Nurses the Most?
Among these 10 countries:
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Canada (~$56,000 USD)
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Australia (~$50,000 USD)
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United Kingdom (~$42,000 USD)
Canada and Australia tend to offer the highest average nurse salaries outside the U.S., particularly for experienced RNs.
💡 Factors That Affect Nurse Salary Worldwide
When comparing international nurse salaries, it’s important to consider:
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Cost of living
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Taxes and healthcare systems
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Public vs private employment
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Specialty area (ICU, OR, ER, advanced practice)
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Overtime and shift differentials
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Exchange rate fluctuations
A $40,000 salary in one country may provide a higher standard of living than a higher salary elsewhere.
🌎 Should You Work as a Nurse Abroad?
Many nurses consider international opportunities for:
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Better work-life balance
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Immigration pathways
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Adventure and travel
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Higher salary potential
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Professional growth
However, licensure requirements, language barriers, and visa processes vary by country.
Always research:
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Credential recognition
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Registration board requirements
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Work visa eligibility
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Scope-of-practice laws
📌 Final Thoughts
Nursing salaries vary dramatically around the world. While North America and Australia offer higher pay, European countries often balance lower wages with stronger social protections and benefits.
If you’re exploring international nursing opportunities, salary is only one part of the decision.
Additional Reading
- Top 10 States Where Nurses Earn the Most After Cost of Living (2026) https://choosingnursing.net/nurses-pay-adjusted-for-cost-of-living/
- Nurse Salary by State 2026: Top Paying Locations https://choosingnursing.net/nurse-salary-by-state-206-top-paying/