5. Dialysis RN — $95K – $118K
Dialysis RNs manage hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis for patients with end-stage renal disease at outpatient centers, hospitals, and in home programs. The role is technical, protocol-driven, and in structural high demand because the ESRD population continues to grow with the aging US demographic.
The Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission offers the CNN credential for RNs with two years of nephrology experience, and dialysis providers like Fresenius and DaVita often support certification pathways for staff. Home dialysis training programs also add value to a resume in this specialty.
Vivian Health and BLS OES data indicate dialysis RN pay of $95K to $118K in most metros, with home program specialists and clinic managers reaching the top of the range. Weekend and on-call premiums are common, and travel dialysis contracts occasionally push weekly pay above the standard specialty average.
