Registered Nurse Salary in Hamilton (2026)
Is 81,900/year enough to live in Hamilton?
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Registered Nurse Salary Analysis in Hamilton
Healthcare professionals are in high demand across Canada, and Hamilton is no exception. Registered Nurses in Hamilton earn an average of $81,900/year, supported by strong public sector employment and growing private healthcare options.
After federal and Ontario provincial taxes at a combined rate of 29.5%, take-home pay is approximately 57,715/year — or $4,810/month.
Hamilton offers a good balance of opportunity and affordability. With rent starting at $1,600/month for a 1-bedroom, a registered nurse earning $4,810/month take-home has solid financial flexibility compared to larger Canadian cities.
Registered Nurse Salary Range in Hamilton
Cost of Living in Hamilton
Housing Costs
City Overview
How to Increase Your Registered Nurse Salary
Specialization significantly increases earning potential — consider advanced certifications
Both public and private sector roles are available; private often pays more
Travel nursing and locum positions can boost income by 15-30%
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average registered nurse salary in Hamilton?
The average registered nurse salary in Hamilton, ON is $81,900 per year as of 2026. This is above the national average of $78,000, primarily due to Hamilton's cost of living index of 105 (Canada average: 100).
How much does a registered nurse take home after taxes in Hamilton?
After federal and Ontario provincial taxes (combined effective rate: 29.5%), a registered nurse in Hamilton takes home approximately $57,715/year — that's $4,810/month or $2,220 bi-weekly.
Is $81,900 a good salary in Hamilton?
In Hamilton, $81,900 is considered a strong salary with good financial flexibility. The city's cost of living index of 105 means your dollar goes about as far as the Canadian average.
What is the salary range for registered nurses in Hamilton?
Registered Nurses in Hamilton typically earn between $68,250 and $99,750 per year, depending on experience, specialization, and employer. Entry-level positions start around $68,250, while senior roles can exceed $99,750.
How fast is the registered nurse job market growing in Hamilton?
The registered nurse field is growing at approximately 12.1% nationally, which is significantly above average and signals strong future demand. Hamilton currently has an estimated 512 openings, with an unemployment rate of 5.4%.