Independence vs Springfield: Registered Nurse Salary (2026)
Compare registered nurse salaries between Independence, MO and Springfield, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Independence, MO | Springfield, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $89,031▲ | $83,585 |
| Hourly Rate | $42.81▲ | $40.19 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $64,407 | $67,988▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $73,993 | $78,361▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $101,129▲ | $95,105 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $132,297▲ | $106,542 |
| Total Employed | 30 | 6,820▲ |
Verdict
Independence, MO offers better overall compensation for registered nurses, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Springfield.
The salary gap between Independence and Springfield is $5,446 (6.52%). Independence's median is -13.33% compared to the US national median of $102,730.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Independence spans $67,890,Springfield spans $38,554. Independence has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Independence ($99,365 effective) pays 5.31% more than Springfield ($94,356 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Independence if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($89,031/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($132,297)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,365)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Larger job market (6,820 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, registered nurse salaries in Independence grew 24.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 40.3% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Independence, MO
$67,666 (2024) → $84,542 (2025)
Springfield, MO
$56,560 (2019) → $79,370 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Independence, MO
Springfield, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays registered nurses more: Independence or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Independence and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Independence to Springfield as a registered nurse?
What do entry-level registered nurses earn in Independence vs Springfield?
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Written by Jordan Lee, RN, BSN
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has 10 years of experience as a registered nurse. Their specialty is pediatric nursing in a community hospital. They analyze nursing workforce trends and salary data.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.31% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, RN, BSN, a licensed registered nurse with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov