Interventional Radiology (IR) nurses specialize in assisting during minimally invasive, image-guided procedures performed by interventional radiologists. These nurses play a crucial role in patient care before, during, and after procedures such as angioplasty, biopsies, and embolizations.
Average Salary of Interventional Radiology Nurses in 2026
As of 2026, the average salary for interventional radiology nurses in the United States ranges from $75,000 to $103,000 annually, with the median salary hovering around $90,000. The variation in pay depends on experience, location, certifications, and healthcare facility type.
Factors Influencing Interventional Radiology Nurse Salary
Several key factors impact salary levels for IR nurses:
Experience: Entry-level IR nurses typically earn between $70,000 and $80,000, while senior nurses with over 10 years of experience can make upwards of $100,000.
Location: Salaries tend to be higher in metropolitan areas with large medical centers, such as New York, California, and Texas.
Education and Certifications: Holding advanced certifications like the Certified Radiology Nurse (CRN) or Certified Vascular Access Nurse (CVAN) can significantly increase earning potential.
Facility Type: Nurses working in specialized or high-volume interventional radiology departments generally command higher salaries.
Additional Roles: Some nurses may also take on roles like educator, lead navigator, or clinical supervisor, which can boost compensation.
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Average Salary (2026) |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $70,000 – $78,000 |
| Mid-Level (3-7 years) | $80,000 – $90,000 |
| Senior-Level (8+ years) | $95,000 – $103,000+ |
Job Market Trends and Outlook
The demand for interventional radiology nurses is expected to grow steadily through 2030 due to:
Increasing popularity of minimally invasive procedures.
Aging population requiring more complex vascular and cancer-related interventions.
Expansion of outpatient interventional radiology centers.
This growth translates into strong job security and potential for salary increases.
Benefits Beyond Salary
IR nurses often enjoy comprehensive benefits, including:
Health, dental, and vision insurance.
Retirement plans with employer matching.
Paid time off and continuing education reimbursement.
Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
Education and Certification Impact on Salary
Having a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or higher education level is increasingly preferred. Additionally, certifications such as:
Certified Radiology Nurse (CRN)
Certified Vascular Access Nurse (CVAN)
Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)
can enhance a nurse’s qualifications and lead to higher salaries and more specialized roles.
Conclusion
In 2026, interventional radiology nursing offers a lucrative and rewarding career path with competitive salaries ranging from $70,000 to over $100,000. Salary depends heavily on experience, location, education, and certification status. With strong job market growth and attractive benefits, becoming an IR nurse is a smart choice for nurses seeking a specialized and stable profession in healthcare.
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