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Beyond mean pay gaps: Decomposing earnings inequality among registered nurses

Author

Listed:
  • David Kalist

    (Shippesnburg University)

Abstract

Using the 2018 and 2022 U.S. National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses (NSSRN), I use Theil index decompositions to examine the structure of RN earnings inequality. More than 96% of earnings inequality occurs within demographic groups rather than between them. Differences in mean earnings by sex and race/ethnicity explain little of total inequality, while education and geography account for somewhat larger between-group shares. Results using hourly wages are similar. The findings indicate substantial earnings heterogeneity among nurses even within narrowly defined demographic categories.

Suggested Citation

  • David Kalist, 2026. "Beyond mean pay gaps: Decomposing earnings inequality among registered nurses," Economics Bulletin, AccessEcon, vol. 46(3), pages 1014-1024.
    • Handle: RePEc:ebl:ecbull:eb-26-00451
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    JEL classification:

    • D3 - Microeconomics - - Distribution
    • J3 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs

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