VA nurse pay scale follows a structured system under Title 38, using grade and step levels to determine salaries based on experience, education, and location. Compensation includes base pay, locality adjustments, and performance bonuses. Nurses also receive comprehensive federal benefits, making VA careers financially and professionally rewarding.
Introduction to VA Nursing Careers
Working for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) isn’t just a nursing job. It’s a purpose-driven mission. You’re not just clocking in, you’re stepping into a role that supports veterans, people who’ve sacrificed deeply for the country. That hits different.
Take Rachel, for example. She used to work at a private hospital in Boston. Good pay. But something was missing. “At the VA,” she says, “I found meaning.” Many feel the same. It’s not just about the money, it’s about being part of something bigger.
And yes, the job comes with strong benefits and growth. But for many, it’s the impact that matters most.
Understanding the VA Nurse Pay Schedule
Let’s break it down. VA nurse salaries fall under Title 38 authority, meaning they use a system of grades and steps to determine pay.
- Grades classify roles (Nurse I, II, III).
- Steps reflect tenure and performance within a grade.
So, a Nurse II, Step 6 earns more than a Nurse I, Step 6. Obvious, right? But here’s the twist: every nurse’s base pay also gets a boost depending on where they work. That’s called locality pay, and it can change your earnings—fast.
This structure means two nurses in different cities could have wildly different paychecks, even if their grades and steps match.
VA Nurse Pay Table: Base Salaries by Grade and Step
Base pay chart as of 2024 (before locality increases):
| Nurse Level | Step 1 (Min) | Step 6 (Mid) | Step 10 (Max) | Annual Increase per Step |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Junior | $37,765 | $44,060 | $49,096 | $1,259 |
| Associate | $44,173 | $51,533 | $57,421 | $1,472 |
| Full | $51,332 | $59,887 | $66,731 | $1,711 |
Note: These numbers are base pay only. Actual salaries are higher once you include locality pay and bonuses.
Grade and Step: How VA Nurse Compensation Works
Let’s make this real. Imagine you’re a Nurse II. That’s a mid-tier RN with experience or a BSN. Within that grade, there are 12 steps. Each year—if your performance is solid, you move up one step.
That equals more money. Predictable raises. Built-in structure. Feels secure, doesn’t it?
Promotion to Nurse III? That usually takes more. Advanced degrees, specialty credentials, or stepping into leadership. But the payoff is there. Higher grade = higher salary ceiling.
It’s not a mystery. It’s a clear ladder—and you climb it with your skills and time.
Regional Variations in Pay and Benefits
Let’s talk geography. A Nurse II in San Francisco makes significantly more than one in Tulsa. Why? Locality pay.
The VA adjusts salaries based on cost of living. So yes, that means more money where life costs more. But that’s not all. In tough-to-fill locations, you could also get:
- Special Salary Rates (SSR)
- Recruitment Bonuses
- Retention Incentives
You’ve got options. Want a higher paycheck? Flexibility with where you live helps.
Civilian vs. VA Nurse Salary Comparison
Here’s the real talk. VA nurse base pay might not always beat private hospitals. But when you add the extras? Game changer.
- Reliable raises through steps
- Free or low-cost health insurance
- Federal retirement and job stability
Plus, you’re not battling constant turnover. VA nurses often stay long-term because the total package—money, mission, and benefits—is hard to match. In many U.S. regions, total compensation beats civilian RN roles hands down.
Federal Benefits Package for VA Nurses
It’s not just about take-home pay. Your benefits count. Big time.
Here’s what VA nurses get:
- Health Insurance: Choose from multiple FEHB plans
- Retirement: Through FERS, with pension + TSP match
- Paid Leave: Up to 49 days per year (annual + sick + holidays!)
- Life & Disability Insurance
These aren’t throwaways. They add up to tens of thousands in value annually. For long-haul careers? It’s peace of mind.
Educational Opportunities and Loan Forgiveness
Student loans? The VA has your back. Programs include:
- EDRP: Up to $200,000 for loan repayment
- SLRP: Up to $60,000 lifetime
- PSLF: Loan forgiveness after 10 years of service/payments
- Scholarships: NNEI and EISP can fully fund your next degree
Real Stories: Nurses Working at the VA
James worked ICU in Denver for a decade. Burnout hit. He made the leap to VA primary care. “It’s like I exhaled for the first time in years,” he shares.
Maria came from the Philippines, climbed the ladder, and now runs a geriatrics unit in Chicago. “Here, I lead. I grow. I give back,” she says.
These stories aren’t rare. They’re the heartbeat of VA nursing.
How to Apply and Get Hired
Applying is a journey, but we’ll simplify:
- Go to USAJobs.gov and search for “VA nurse”
- Gather documents: resume, transcripts, license, SF-50 (if applicable)
- Apply online and track your status
- Credentialing check (yes, this includes a background check)
- Interview—then negotiate your step level if possible!
Hot tip: Use the job description’s keywords in your resume. It’s not just helpful—it’s essential.
Tips to Maximize Your VA Nurse Compensation
Want the biggest paycheck? Here’s how:
- Choose high locality pay areas (California, NYC, DC)
- Ask to start at a higher step (especially if you have prior experience)
- Earn certifications for grade boosts
- Volunteer for evening or weekend shifts (hello, bonuses!)
- Look for SSR-designated roles on USAJobs
More strategy = more salary. Know your worth, and ask for it.
Common Questions About the Pay Scale
Below are common questions we get asked.
How often do VA nurses receive pay increases?
Every year, VA nurses are eligible for step increases—assuming performance meets expectations. After a few years, you could also be promoted to a higher grade, which means even more pay.
What is locality pay, and how much does it add?
Locality pay adjusts your salary based on where you work. It can boost your total pay by 17–30% depending on the cost of living in your area.
Can I qualify for special higher pay?
Yes. High-demand or rural facilities often offer Special Salary Rates (SSRs), sign-on bonuses, or retention incentives.
Are there bonuses or performance-based pay?
Many VA facilities offer shift differentials, performance bonuses, and occasional spot awards. Ask during your interview.
Can part-time VA nurses receive full benefits?
You get prorated benefits, still generous. But loan forgiveness programs usually require full-time status.
Is the VA nurse pay scale updated regularly?
Yes. Schedules are updated annually, with occasional mid-year revisions for specific regions or positions.
