Do registered nurses make good money? What is the hourly wage for nurses? These are questions that nursing students and aspiring nurses often ask. Keep in mind that these are only averages. A registered nurse may make more or less than these amounts based on location, experience, and other factors. In addition, the starting salaries for an RN may be much less than the average salary. This salary will increase over time as nurses gain experience, certifications, and specialize in a specific area.