Nuclear Power Reactor Operators Salary by State
The national median pay for nuclear power reactor operators is $122,890 a year. By state, it ranges from $108,650 in Nebraska to $129,580 in New York.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
U.S. pay range
- Lowest 10%
- $98,640
- 25th percentile
- $109,440
- Median
- $122,890
- 75th percentile
- $130,490
- Top 10%
- $149,310
Annual pay, all U.S. workers in this job. About 5,150 jobs.
Median pay in 5 states
| # | State | Median | vs. U.S. | Lowest 10% | Top 10% | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New York | $129,580 | +5% | $102,070 | $158,080 | 230 |
| 2 | Illinois | $123,980 | +1% | $104,760 | $133,950 | 410 |
| 3 | Alabama | $119,000 | −3% | $105,050 | $160,760 | 360 |
| 4 | South Carolina | $118,620 | −3% | $85,820 | $126,790 | 320 |
| 5 | Nebraska | $108,650 | −12% | $90,120 | $131,100 | 50 |
BLS OEWS May 2025 state estimates. States without published data are not listed. “Not published”: BLS withheld the value or it is above the highest amount BLS publishes. Pay is not adjusted for living costs.
Nuclear Power Reactor Operators salary questions
Which state pays nuclear power reactor operators the most?
New York, with a median of $129,580 a year (+5% vs. the national median of $122,890). BLS May 2025.
Which state pays nuclear power reactor operators the least?
Nebraska, with a median of $108,650 a year (−12% vs. national).
Where do most nuclear power reactor operators work?
Illinois has the most jobs, about 410, with a median of $123,980.
Does a higher salary mean more money left over?
Not always. These are pay figures only. Living costs, taxes and housing differ a lot between states, and this page does not adjust for them.