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Highest Paying Rn Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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How much do highest paying rn jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for highest paying rn in Chicago, IL is $45.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.66 and $53.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the highest paying RN jobs?

The highest paying RN (Registered Nurse) jobs typically include specialized roles such as Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Managers, and Clinical Nurse Specialists. These positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and several years of experience. Factors like location, type of healthcare facility, and shift differentials can also impact RN salaries. In general, RNs who work in metropolitan areas, critical care, or surgical settings tend to earn higher wages compared to those in other nursing roles.

What settings or specialties typically offer the highest salaries for registered nurses, and what should applicants consider before pursuing these roles?

Registered Nurses can earn higher salaries by working in specialized areas such as the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Operating Room (OR), Emergency Room (ER), or by pursuing roles like Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) or Nurse Practitioner. These positions often require additional certifications, advanced degrees, or significant clinical experience. While these roles offer higher pay, applicants should be prepared for more demanding responsibilities, irregular hours, and a fast-paced work environment. It's important to weigh the increased compensation against potential stress and the need for advanced education or training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a high-earning registered nurse, and why are they important?

To excel as a high-earning RN, you typically need advanced clinical expertise, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or higher, specialized certifications (such as CRNA or NP), and significant nursing experience. Mastery of specialized healthcare technologies, electronic health records, and advanced life support systems is often required. Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills distinguish top earners in nursing roles. These skills and credentials enable RNs to take on complex, high-responsibility positions that command higher salaries and directly impact patient outcomes.

What are popular job titles related to Highest Paying Rn jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Highest Paying Rn jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Highest Paying Rn jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Highest Paying Rn jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Highest Paying Rn jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Highest Paying Rn job openings:

Highest Paying Rn jobs near you
Infographic showing various Highest Paying Rn job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,314 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Travel Nurse RN - ICU - Intensive Care Unit

Aptiva Healthcare

Arlington Heights, IL • On-site

Contractor

Medical

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Aptiva Healthcare is seeking a travel nurse RN ICU - Intensive Care Unit for a travel nursing job in Arlington Heights, Illinois.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: ICU - Intensive Care Unit
  • Discipline: RN
  • Start Date: 09/20/2026
  • Duration: 12 weeks
  • 36 hours per week
  • Shift: 12 hours, nights
  • Employment Type: Travel
  • Scheduled details (Hours, Shift, Time):  12hr Night 6p-6a
  • Experience Requirements: EPIC Charting, 2+ years of strong ICU
  • Experience License/ Certification Requirements:  IL License, BLS, ACLS, NIHSS
  • Floating Requirements: As Needed Weekend Requirements:   As Needed
  • On-Call Requirements:  none

  • Holiday Requirements:   As Needed  

    Unit Notes:  

    36 bed ICU 12 Neuro, 12 Cardiac, 12 medical surgical ICU

    Nurse to patient ratio: 1:2 or 2-3 depending on acuity

About Aptiva Healthcare

We are a Joint Commission accredited Healthcare staffing agency recruiting Registered Nurses and Allied professionals nationwide for Travel assignments and permanent positions. We believe in getting you the highest paying assignment and handle your contract with accuracy and transparency so that nothing is left to guessing and uncertainties. Join us and choose from the amazing locations and best paying assignments many of which are from award winning facilities. Your satisfaction is our top priority.

Benefits
  • Referral bonus
  • Weekly pay
  • License and certification reimbursement
  • Holiday Pay
  • Guaranteed Hours
  • Continuing Education
  • Cancelation protection
  • Medical benefits

Apply