Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurse Salary in Pennsylvania

Annual Median: $82,780
Hourly Median: $39.8

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Annual and Hourly Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurse undefined, Pennsylvania Salary Table:

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
PercentileAnnual SalaryHourly Wage
10th$64,820$31.16
25th$76,320$36.69
Median$82,780$39.8
75th$100,620$48.38
90th$109,740$52.76

Best Schools to become a Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurse in Pennsylvania 2024

Drexel University

Philadelphia, PA

In-State Tuition:$56,595
Out-of-State Tuition:$56,595
Admission Rate:80%
Graduation Rate:78%
Total Enrollment:22,344

Thomas Jefferson University

Philadelphia, PA

In-State Tuition:$43,100
Out-of-State Tuition:$43,100
Admission Rate:89%
Graduation Rate:68%
Total Enrollment:8,286

Pennsylvania Western University

California, PA

In-State Tuition:$7,716
Out-of-State Tuition:$11,574
Admission Rate:94%
Graduation Rate:48%
Total Enrollment:12,778

Harrisburg Area Community College

Harrisburg, PA

In-State Tuition:$7,065
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,498
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:16%
Total Enrollment:12,576

Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences

Lancaster, PA

In-State Tuition:$30,408
Out-of-State Tuition:$30,408
Admission Rate:46%
Graduation Rate:58%
Total Enrollment:1,775

University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus

Pittsburgh, PA

In-State Tuition:$19,760
Out-of-State Tuition:$36,000
Admission Rate:49%
Graduation Rate:84%
Total Enrollment:33,767

Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurse Salary in Pennsylvania FAQs

What factors influence the salary of an ICU Nurse in Pennsylvania?

The salary of an ICU Nurse in Pennsylvania can be influenced by several factors, including:

  • Experience: More experienced nurses typically command higher salaries due to their advanced skills and knowledge.
  • Education: Nurses with higher degrees, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or advanced practice degrees, may earn more.
  • Certifications: Specialty certifications, like those in critical care nursing, can enhance earning potential.
  • Location: Salaries can vary significantly within Pennsylvania, often reflecting the cost of living and demand for healthcare services in urban versus rural areas.
  • Type of Employer: Hospitals, private practices, or academic medical centers may offer different salary structures.

How does the work schedule affect an ICU Nurse's salary?

The work schedule can impact an ICU Nurse's salary through factors such as:

  • Shift Differentials: Evening, night, and weekend shifts often come with additional pay incentives.
  • Overtime Opportunities: ICU nurses may have access to overtime, which can boost overall earnings.
  • Full-Time vs. Part-Time: Full-time positions generally offer higher salaries and additional benefits compared to part-time roles.

Are there opportunities for salary growth in this role?

Yes, there are various opportunities for salary growth as an ICU Nurse, including:

  • Advancement: Pursuing leadership roles, such as charge nurse or nurse manager, can lead to higher salaries.
  • Continuing Education: Furthering your education through nursing certifications, advanced degrees, or specialized training can result in increased earning potential.
  • Travel Nursing: Taking on travel nursing assignments can provide temporary boosts in salary and benefits based on demand in specific regions.

What are the benefits typically offered to ICU Nurses in Pennsylvania?

Benefits for ICU Nurses can vary by employer but commonly include:

  • Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision insurance packages.
  • Retirement Plans: Options like 401(k) plans with employer matching contributions.
  • Paid Time Off: Vacation days, sick leave, and personal days.
  • Professional Development: Opportunities for continuing education reimbursement and support in obtaining certifications.

How does being part of a union influence ICU Nurse salaries?

Being part of a union can have several effects on ICU Nurse salaries, such as:

  • Collective Bargaining: Unions may negotiate higher wages and better benefits on behalf of the members.
  • Job Security: Union representation can provide additional job security, which might indirectly influence salary growth over time.
  • Grievance Processes: Unions often have established processes for addressing workplace issues, which can lead to a better working environment and conditions that may affect salary negotiations.

Do ICU Nurses receive bonuses or incentives in Pennsylvania?

Many healthcare facilities offer bonuses or incentives to ICU Nurses based on:

  • Performance: Achievements in patient care quality measures may lead to performance bonuses.
  • Sign-On Bonuses: Facilities facing staffing shortages may offer sign-on bonuses to attract qualified candidates.
  • Retention Bonuses: Employers might provide retention bonuses to encourage nurses to stay long-term, especially in high-demand specialties like critical care.

How does the cost of living in Pennsylvania affect ICU Nurse salaries?

The cost of living in Pennsylvania can affect ICU Nurse salaries in the following ways:

  • Regional Differences: Urban areas, such as Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, generally have higher living costs but may also offer higher salaries compared to rural areas.
  • Housing Costs: Pocket costs related to housing, transportation, and other living expenses can influence salary negotiations and overall compensation packages.
  • Availability of Jobs: An area with a higher demand for ICU Nurses might offer more competitive salaries to attract talent, which can also be affected by local living costs.