Nursing is a highly respected profession in Ireland, offering competitive salaries and opportunities for career growth. Nurses in Ireland are well-compensated based on their experience, qualifications, and the specific healthcare sector in which they work, whether it's in public hospitals, private institutions, or community care settings. In recent years, the demand for skilled nurses has increased, resulting in improved salary structures and benefits. For those considering a nursing career or relocation to Ireland, understanding the trends and factors influencing nurse salary in Ireland is crucial.
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An overview – Nurse salary in Ireland per year
Nurses in Ireland earn a competitive salary that varies based on factors such as experience, specialisation, and employment setting. The starting salary for newly qualified nurses in the public sector typically ranges between €30,000 and €35,000 (₹27,79,650 and ₹32,43,415) annually.
As nurses gain more experience, their salaries can increase, with senior staff nurses earning upwards of €45,000 to €50,000 (₹41,70,105 to ₹46,33,450). Specialised nurses, such as those in critical care, pediatrics, or oncology, often receive higher pay due to the advanced skills required. In the private sector, salary scales may differ, and additional benefits such as bonuses or overtime compensation are common.
Additionally, nurses in Ireland benefit from structured pay increments, pension schemes, and allowances for night shifts or weekend work, contributing to overall earning potential.
Average registered nurse (RN) salary in Ireland
As of 2024-2025, the average salary for a Registered Nurse (RN) in Ireland is around €42,000 (INR 38,94,828) per year. In Dublin, the average salary for RNs is approximately €40,000 (INR 37,09,360) annually, with additional potential pay of around €700 (INR 64,913) depending on experience and specialisation. Salaries in Ireland can vary based on location, with rural areas typically offering lower wages than major cities like Dublin.
Nurse salary in Ireland – By state
The salary for nurses can vary based on different states in Ireland, here are the average salaries of nurses:
Dublin: Nurses can expect an average salary of around €40,000 to €42,000 (₹37,09,840 to ₹38,95,332) per year.
Cork: Salaries here are slightly lower, typically ranging from €38,000 to €40,000 (₹35,24,348 to ₹37,09,840) annually.
Galway: Nurses in Galway can earn between €36,000 and €40,000 (₹33,38,856 to ₹37,09,840), depending on experience and specialisation.
Limerick: The average salary in Limerick is about €35,000 to €38,000 (₹32,46,075 to ₹35,24,386) per year.
Waterford: Nurses in Waterford earn an average salary in the range of €34,000 to €37,000 (₹31,53,398 to ₹34,31,639) annually
Note: These salaries can vary based on factors like years of experience, specialisation, and whether the nurse works in a public or private healthcare facility.
Average registered nurse (RN) hourly pay in Ireland
Here is the average hourly pay of a registered nurse in Ireland:
What is the pay-by-experience level for registered nurses in Ireland?
An entry-level Registered Nurse (RN) with less than 1 year of experience can expect to earn an average total compensation (including tips, bonus, and overtime pay) of €15.60 based on 37 salaries. An early career Registered Nurse (RN) with 1-4 years of experience earns an average total compensation of €17.93 based on 150 salaries. A mid-career Registered Nurse (RN) with 5-9 years of experience earns an average total compensation of €20.44 based on 87 salaries. An experienced Registered Nurse (RN) with 10-19 years of experience earns an average total compensation of €22.11 based on 87 salaries. In their late career (20 years and higher), employees earn an average total compensation of €24.
Popular career paths for registered nurse in Ireland
Here is a popular career path that you can follow to level up your nursing career in Ireland.
How IELTS can help you become a nurse in Ireland?
Here is how IELTS can help you become a nurse in Ireland:
NMBI requirement: IELTS Academic is accepted by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) for English language proficiency.
Required band score: Achieve a minimum overall score of 7.0, with no section below 6.5.
Communication skills: Proves your ability to communicate effectively in English with patients and medical staff.
Professional registration: Helps you meet the language criteria for NMBI registration.
Career opportunities: Opens doors to nursing roles in Ireland’s healthcare system.
Hope this blog helps you understand the average nurse salary in Ireland and guides you to plan out your career accordingly. Also, if you are planning to take the IELTS test and have related questions then you can get in touch with your nearest IDP IELTS test centre. Our team of IELTS experts will answer all your questions.