RN Case Manager Salary

By LeadLake Team   /   Job Category   /   2026
Back to RN Case Manager Job Description

Determining Salary Factor

The salary for a RN case manager can vary based on factors such as location, experience, certification, and employer. The average annual salary typically ranges from $69,557 to $95,163. Some individuals in this role may earn over $100,000 per year.

Entry-level RN case managers can typically expect a base salary of approximately $59,000, while more senior or executive-level positions may offer salaries of $92,000 or higher.

Employers often prefer to hire case managers who hold a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) and possess board certification.

What is the average salary for a case manager?

The average salary for a Case Manager in the United States is $40,000 per year or $19.35 per hour.

It is possible to determine the average salary based on factors such as the state, years of experience, and field of work.

Additionally, there are considerations for the gender pay gap and race wage gap, as well as income differences based on education level.

What is the average salary of a nurse case manager?

Case Managers play a crucial role in advocating for patients and ensuring their needs are efficiently and effectively met. According to payscale.com, as of April 2020, the average annual salary for an RN case manager is approximately $72,017 or around $34.16 per hour. However, it's important to note that salaries may vary depending on the geographic location.

Salary Growth

RN case managers have the opportunity to increase their salaries by pursuing nursing certifications and advanced graduate training. As hospitals and healthcare facilities search for more efficient methods to manage patient capacity and provide affordable, high-quality care, the demand for nurse case managers is expected to rise, resulting in higher salaries.

If you are an RN case manager, you can enhance your salary potential by obtaining a master's degree in nursing, health administration, or a related field of study. Additionally, pursuing an advanced practice registered nursing degree can also lead to higher earnings. Furthermore, acquiring one or more RN case manager certifications can contribute to a salary increase.

The projected job growth rate for nurse case managers between 2018 and 2028 is 6%. Over the next decade, approximately 195,400 new jobs for nurse case managers are anticipated. Notably, nurse case manager salaries have increased by 10% in the last five years.

Salary Progression

According to Payscale.com, care managers can expect the following pay based on their level of experience: entry level at $69,968 per year, early-career at $76,020 per year, mid-career at $78,663 per year, and experienced at $81,835 per year.

How much does a Rn with an associate degree make?

The salary of nurses can vary depending on the healthcare setting and any specialty certifications they may have. On average, nurses with an associate degree earn just over $49,000 per year, while those with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) start their careers with an annual salary of around $54,000.

The difference in hourly pay rates between registered nurses (RNs) and BSNs can also vary.

Entry-level vs Experienced

Based on Payscale data as of March 2022, the average annual salary for RN case managers is $75,100. Entry-level case managers with less than one year of experience can expect a starting salary of $66,700. On the other hand, case managers with 20 or more years of experience earn a maximum salary of $79,970.

What is the difference between RN care manager and RN case manager?

The terms "RN care manager" and "RN case manager" are often mistakenly used interchangeably, despite having distinct meanings. An RN care manager is primarily concerned with addressing the individual needs of patients, whereas an RN case manager focuses on monitoring patients with specific conditions related to their area of expertise.

It is important to understand the differences between these roles to accurately communicate the responsibilities and expectations associated with each position. This clarity can facilitate better coordination and efficiency within healthcare teams, ultimately benefiting patient care.

Certification

RNs have the opportunity to pursue certifications in specialized fields, which can improve their career prospects and potential salary. The median salaries for board-certified case managers have seen growth since 2017, ranging from $80,000 to $85,000 per year, with many individuals in management roles earning six-figure incomes. To become a nurse case manager, it is necessary to hold an active RN license in good standing. Obtaining additional certifications can distinguish candidates from others and enhance their qualifications. One option is to obtain the Case Management Nurse Board Certified (CMGT-BC) credential through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Below is a list of recommended nurse case manager certifications. Having a nurse case manager certification not only boosts job applications but also increases the potential salary one can earn.

Do nurse case managers have to be board certified?

While it is not mandated by law, some employers may have a preference for or even require board certification for nurse case managers. To obtain this certification, nurses must have at least two years of nursing experience and 2,000 hours of experience in case management. NurseJournal.org provides a guide on how to become a nurse case manager for those interested in pursuing this career path.

How long is a Case Management Nurse Certification valid?

After meeting the eligibility requirements and passing the certification examination, individuals are granted the credential of Case Management Nurse – Board Certified (CMGT-BC™). This certification is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Specialty Nursing Certification, which is a part of the ANCC.

The credential of Case Management Nurse – Board Certified (CMGT-BC™) remains valid for a certain period of time. It is a recognized certification offered by the ANA for those in the field of nursing case management.

How much does a nurse case manager make?

The average salary of a Nurse Case Manager in the United States is $68,296, but it can range between $61,241 and $78,117. The salary can vary based on factors such as education, certifications, additional skills, and years of experience in the profession.

How to earn more

There are four effective strategies to increase pay as an RN Case Manager. Firstly, it is recommended to consider pursuing certifications relevant to the specialized fields within nursing to showcase competency and improve career opportunities. Secondly, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or graduate degree has a positive impact on RN salaries. Thirdly, gaining experience in management roles can lead to higher earning potential. Lastly, switching practice settings can open up new avenues for increased pay as an RN Case Manager.