RN vs NP Nursing License
Side-by-Side Comparison
Key Differences
Salary
NPs earn $40,390 more per year on average than RNs.
Winner: NP
Job Growth
NP is growing at 45%, indicating stronger demand.
Winner: NP
Category Winners
Registered Nurse
Registered Nurses (RNs) provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients about health conditions, and provide advice and emotional support.
View RN state requirements →Nurse Practitioner
Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses who provide primary and specialty healthcare services, including diagnosing conditions, prescribing medications, and managing patient care.
View NP state requirements →Explore More Comparisons
Compare specific state requirements for each profession.