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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in Arkansas, the average annual wage for a nurse practitioner is $107,110 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2022), which is notably lower than the national average salary of $124,680 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2022).
However, there is still a need and demand for nurse practitioners in the state. It is projected that nurse practitioners in Arkansas will see a job growth rate of to grow 31.5% from 2018 to 2028. Even though you may earn more as a nurse practitioner in a state other than Arkansas, there are many ways to increase your salary as a nurse practitioner in Arkansas and provide much-needed services there.
Arkansas Nurse Practitioner Salaries – Visualized
Nurse Practitioners Salaries in urban areas of Arkansas
| Metro Area | # Employed | Mean Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR-MO | 460 | $113,830 |
| Fort Smith, AR-OK | 160 | $108,110 |
| Hot Springs, AR | 200 | $94,290 |
| Jonesboro, AR | 210 | $107,560 |
| Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR | 930 | $107,500 |
| Pine Bluff, AR | 40 | $105,200 | Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2022 |
Nurse Practitioners Salaries in rural areas of Arkansas
| Metro Area | # Employed | Mean Salary |
|---|---|---|
| North Arkansas nonmetropolitan area | 340 | $105,570 |
| East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area | 150 | $107,110 |
| West Arkansas nonmetropolitan area | 200 | $99,640 |
| South Arkansas nonmetropolitan area | 170 | $112,610 | Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2022 |
Increasing Nurse Practitioner Salary In Arkansas
Learning about how to boost your salary as a nurse practitioner (NP) in Arkansas is a great way to maximize your potential or current earnings. Whether you are just beginning to research whether you would like to become a nurse practitioner, are still in school, or are currently a practicing NP, this knowledge can help you estimate and increase your salary projections.
Education & Certificates
While there is a great deal of education and hands-on training required to be a well-paid and highly qualified nurse practitioner, this training ensures that you are prepared to face the duties of your job head-on and negotiate for a higher salary.
Education is one of the best ways to increase your salary. Data shows that nurse practitioners who possess a higher degree tend to earn significantly more at all points in their careers. For example, the average salary of a nurse practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is often higher than the salary of a nurse practitioner who only holds a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
However, holding an advanced degree is not the only way to increase your salary. Obtaining certifications in specialty areas can also improve your professional desirability and thus boost your wages. These specialty areas can include psychiatric, women’s health, pediatric, geriatric, dermatologic care, among many others.
Increasing Your Salary Through Diversifying Your Resume
Diversifying your resume can make you an asset to your employer and give you leverage to increase your current or prospective salary. To pad your resume and maximize your bargaining power during salary negotiations, you can work in different roles or obtain experience in other specialty practice areas.
Nurse practitioners can choose to offer or specialize in a specific type of care. Some specialty practice areas pay more than others. For example, pediatric and emergency nurse practitioners tend to earn more than their family NP (FNP) and aesthetic NP counterparts.
Consider Relocation
If you decide that increasing your nurse practitioner salary in Arkansas is not your preferred route, you can always choose to move states.
The average wage for nurse practitioners is significantly lower in Arkansas partially because the state does not allow NPs to prescribe, administer, and dispense prescription medication independently without a specific order from a collaborating physician. However, many states across the US implement a “full practice” policy and allow NPs to prescribe and administer prescription medication, which can increase your potential earnings.
Mastering the Salary Negotiation Process
It’s vital to equip yourself with knowledge about your potential salary as an NP before starting the salary negotiation process with a prospective employer or even before asking for a raise.
Before beginning this process, be sure to learn what nurse practitioners make in your state and specific region. You should also be prepared to tell your employers how valuable your skills and knowledge are to your workplace.