Utilization Review Nurse Salary Guide

A Utilization Review Nurse (UR Nurse) is a registered nurse who evaluates clinical necessity, appropriateness and efficiency of healthcare services. They review patient records, coordinate with providers and payers, approve or deny authorizations, and ensure care aligns with evidence-based guidelines and payer policies to control costs and optimize patient outcomes.

What is the average Utilization Review Nurse salary?

Entry Level

$60,000 - $75,000

Mid Level

$75,000 - $95,000

Senior Level

$95,000 - $125,000+

How does Utilization Review Nurse salary grow with experience?

$60,000 - $70,000
0-2
$70,000 - $85,000
3-5
$85,000 - $100,000
6-10
$95,000 - $125,000++
10+
Base (min)
Top of range (max)
Max: $125k

Utilization Review Nurse salary by location

New York, NY$70,000 - $115,000
Los Angeles, CA$68,000 - $110,000
Chicago, IL$65,000 - $105,000
Dallas-Fort Worth, TX$62,000 - $100,000
San Francisco Bay Area, CA$75,000 - $125,000
Base (min)
Top of range (max)

What factors affect a Utilization Review Nurse's salary?

  • Clinical background and specialty (e.g., oncology, behavioral health, surgical services)
  • Employer type (health insurer, hospital, case management firm, third-party vendor)
  • Certifications and credentials (RN, CCM, Certified Case Manager, URAC training)
  • Geographic location and local cost of living
  • Experience level and managerial responsibilities

Frequently Asked Questions About Utilization Review Nurse Salaries

What is the average salary for a Utilization Review Nurse?

Average salaries typically range from about $60,000 at entry level to $95,000 mid-career and $95,000–$125,000+ for senior UR nurses, depending on location, specialty and payer type.

How can I increase my Utilization Review Nurse salary?

Increase pay by gaining clinical experience, obtaining relevant certifications (e.g., RN, CCM, URAC training), specializing in high-demand areas (oncology, behavioral health), moving to higher-cost regions or working for insurers or large health systems.

Do remote Utilization Review Nurse jobs pay less than on-site roles?

Remote roles can pay comparably but may vary by employer: some adjust pay for local cost-of-living while others offer national pay bands; remote positions often include flexible schedules and lower commute costs as compensation.

What benefits commonly accompany a Utilization Review Nurse salary?

Common benefits include medical/dental/vision insurance, retirement contributions (401k), paid time off, continuing education allowances, licensure reimbursement, and sometimes performance bonuses or shift differentials.

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