Let's face it, the nursing industry isn't going anywhere. There’s a need for nurses nationwide. However, the demand of being an essential worker during a pandemic doesn't necessarily equate to more money. It depends on where you are in the nursing career spectrum and your location. According to: Nursing License Map, as of 2018 a nursing assistant made $35,220 in California. Sounds decent, right? Well, California is mentioned six times in the "Top 10 Most Expensive Cities in America" by Move.org. Factor in the rising cost of living and the declining industries, your salary may not be enough to meet your lifestyle needs. However, there are additional ways to make money as a nurse to consider. There’s some new avenues you may want to explore as a change of pace or to just step away from your regular medical scenery. Here are some ways you can earn more money as a nurse. 

Higher Education: By obtaining a higher level degree or certification, you can increase your salary. In the hierarchy of nursing, one of the top tier positions is as a nursing instructor or teacher. A nurse anesthetist makes up to six figures a year. Salaries vary depending on your location and demand.

Continuing Your Education: Another way to advance in your career path and increase your income is to work in a specialized area. You can go from being a registered nurse working at a clinic, to a nurse midwife or working for a specialist like a neurologist. Some areas require additional education and/or certifications. A certified nurse midwife must at least have a BSN degree to get started on a path of changing to an area of specialization.

Create A Side Hustle: There are multiple ways to earn more money and increase your income. One way is creating a second stream of income, by using your pre-existing medical skills and education to train others. You could become a blogger, teach patients how to use medical equipment at home or how to perform CPR.

At the end of the day, choose whichever method is best for you. Just know that there are ways out there to increase your income within or outside of your field. Whatever you decide, take care of yourself, be careful and know that you're appreciated.