- Salary statistics
- Pain nurse salary
Pain nurse salary
Latest available salary statistics are for 2025. Compare average pay, salary range and related job listings.
36 100 - 88 400 SEK / month
Women earn 97% of what men do.
Hälso- & sjukvård
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Salary progression Pain nurse
What does a pain nurse do? – Tasks and work environment
A pain nurse works specifically in assessment, treatment, and follow-up of patients with acute or chronic pain conditions. Tasks include developing individual care plans in collaboration with doctors and other professionals, administering medications, leading pain teams, and providing support to patients and relatives. The pain nurse often educates both healthcare staff and patients about pain management and various treatment options. The work is mainly performed in hospitals, specialist clinics, or pain centers, characterized by high complexity, close collaboration in multidisciplinary teams, and a great need for empathy and communication skills.
Salary development over time
The salary of pain nurses has shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,100 SEK per month, rising to 43 900 SEK in 2023 and further to 44 000 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.8% during this period. The salary development can be explained by increased demand for specialist competence in pain care, as well as general improvements in nurses’ working conditions. The job market has been marked by recruitment difficulties, which has further driven salary growth. Gender differences still exist, but the overall trend shows slow convergence. Regional differences may occur, but salary improvements are observed nationwide within the entire profession.
Pain nurse salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 44 000 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 40,700 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, postgraduate education 3+ years)
- Highest salary: 77,200 SEK/month (male, public sector, research degree)
- Hourly wage (average): 264 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 43 900 SEK, men 45 200 SEK (women: 97% of men's salary)
- Regional differences: May occur, but national statistics dominate
Education and qualifications
To work as a pain nurse, licensure as a nurse and further education in pain management, often at an advanced level, are required. Many employers also value experience from related specialist areas and an interest in research and development within pain care. Practical experience and the ability to work in teams are crucial for success in the role.
- Licensed nurse degree: 3 years
- Further/specialist education in pain: 1 year (master's level or equivalent)
- Clinical work experience: Strongly recommended
- Certifications or courses in pain management: Meritorious
- Good collaboration and pedagogical skills: Important in patient and team work
Pain nurses often work closely with patients with long-term and complex pain conditions, making the profession both challenging and meaningful. Building trust and creating safety are central, as many patients experience both physical and psychological stress. The role involves significant responsibility for the patient's well-being and quality of life.
Common benefits and compensations
Pain nurses are often offered benefits such as extra vacation days, wellness grants, further training, and skill development at the workplace. Access to supervision, flexible hours, and remote work options are available in some facilities. Occupational pension, health insurance, and collective agreements are standard in the public sector.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as a pain nurse is relatively low due to high demand and recruitment difficulties within the profession. At the same time, high requirements for specialized competence, teamwork ability, and handling complex patient cases are imposed. Challenges include high workload, emotionally demanding meetings with patients, and a constant need to stay updated with new treatment methods. The paradoxical situation of both high demand and a high turnover makes the job market dynamic but sometimes difficult to navigate. For those engaged and eager to develop, there are good opportunities for career advancement and specialization.
Tips for those who want to become a pain nurse
To succeed as a pain nurse, it’s good to combine a genuine interest in patient well-being with the ability to work systematically and independently. Strong communication skills are crucial for conveying complex information to patients and colleagues. Being attentive and empathetic facilitates meetings with patients often in difficult situations, and patience helps manage prolonged treatment processes. It’s also important to be curious and willing to continue education in new methods and research. Lastly, being collaborative is an advantage, as the work involves close dialogue with other healthcare professionals.
Key facts about Pain Nurse
- Salary range: 40,700–77,200 SEK/month
- Average salary: 44 000 SEK/month
- Education level: Licensed nurse + further education (4–5 years)
- Work environment: Hospitals, specialist clinics, pain centers
- Demand: Great opportunities for employment
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a pain nurse, there are opportunities to take on more advanced tasks, lead teams, work as educators, or move into research-oriented roles. Specializations in areas such as pediatric pain, palliative care, or rehabilitation are common. The forecast from the Employment Service indicates that job opportunities are plentiful and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, despite recruitment challenges and high attrition rates. There are also good opportunities to work in private clinics or take consultancy roles. With increased focus on pain management and new treatment methods, the profession is expected to continue evolving and remain central in healthcare.
Frequently asked questions about Pain Nurse
- What does a pain nurse earn?
- The average salary is 44 000 SEK per month. - What is the salary range for pain nurses?
- The salary range is 40,700–77,200 SEK per month depending on experience, education, and sector. - Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, men earn an average of 45 200 SEK and women 43 900 SEK, which means women earn about 97% of men's salaries. - What education is required to become a pain nurse?
- Licensure as a nurse and further education in pain management are required. - What is the demand like in the job market?
- The demand is high and expected to remain unchanged in the coming years. - In what work environments do pain nurses work?
- Mainly in hospitals, specialist clinics, and pain centers. - What career opportunities are available after a few years in the profession?
- Opportunities include leadership roles, specialization, or work as educators and researchers.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 32000 kr | 36100 kr |
| 25-34 | 96% | 36400 kr | 40000 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 40600 kr | 43400 kr |
| 45-54 | 95% | 43800 kr | 46700 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 45900 kr | 48700 kr |
| 65-68 | 98% | 48100 kr | 51600 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 40900 kr | 44000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 31700 kr | 36000 kr |
| 25-34 | 97% | 35200 kr | 39100 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 39300 kr | 42400 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 42800 kr | 46100 kr |
| 55-64 | 98% | 45000 kr | 48300 kr |
| 65-68 | 98% | 47100 kr | 51000 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 39600 kr | 43100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 67% | 58000 kr | 62400 kr |
| 35-44 | 83% | 65600 kr | 69300 kr |
| 45-54 | 89500 kr | 93300 kr | |
| 55-64 | 70800 kr | 70800 kr | |
| Snitt | 68% | 70600 kr | 74000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 93% | 35200 kr | 36700 kr |
| 25-34 | 96% | 39200 kr | 40800 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 41800 kr | 43300 kr |
| 45-54 | 98% | 44900 kr | 47300 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 46700 kr | 49300 kr |
| 65-68 | 98% | 49200 kr | 52400 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 43100 kr | 45100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 31600 kr | 36000 kr |
| 25-34 | 97% | 34800 kr | 38900 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 38900 kr | 42200 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 42400 kr | 45800 kr |
| 55-64 | 98% | 44700 kr | 48100 kr |
| 65-68 | 99% | 46700 kr | 50600 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 39100 kr | 42800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 35600 kr | 37800 kr | |
| 25-34 | 93% | 42600 kr | 44500 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 45100 kr | 46600 kr |
| 45-54 | 90% | 47100 kr | 48800 kr |
| 55-64 | 103% | 48400 kr | 49700 kr |
| 65-68 | 52300 kr | 54300 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 45900 kr | 47500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 35600 kr | 37800 kr | |
| 25-34 | 93% | 42600 kr | 44500 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 45100 kr | 46600 kr |
| 45-54 | 90% | 47100 kr | 48800 kr |
| 55-64 | 103% | 48400 kr | 49700 kr |
| 65-68 | 52300 kr | 54300 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 45900 kr | 47500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 32000 kr | 36500 kr |
| 25-34 | 96% | 37100 kr | 41600 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 40800 kr | 44700 kr |
| 45-54 | 95% | 44400 kr | 48800 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 44900 kr | 49100 kr |
| 65-68 | 98% | 47600 kr | 52600 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 40900 kr | 45200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 31800 kr | 36400 kr |
| 25-34 | 97% | 35200 kr | 40200 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 39500 kr | 43800 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 43000 kr | 47800 kr |
| 55-64 | 98% | 44600 kr | 49200 kr |
| 65-68 | 98% | 46800 kr | 52000 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 39600 kr | 44200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 67% | 66000 kr | 74600 kr |
| 35-44 | 83% | 69200 kr | 74100 kr |
| 45-54 | 89500 kr | 93700 kr | |
| Snitt | 68% | 78600 kr | 83300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 93% | 36200 kr | 39200 kr |
| 25-34 | 96% | 40100 kr | 42200 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 42500 kr | 44500 kr |
| 45-54 | 98% | 45000 kr | 48000 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 46500 kr | 49700 kr |
| 65-68 | 98% | 48700 kr | 53200 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 43600 kr | 46200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 31600 kr | 36300 kr |
| 25-34 | 97% | 34700 kr | 39900 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 38900 kr | 43400 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 42200 kr | 47200 kr |
| 55-64 | 98% | 44100 kr | 49000 kr |
| 65-68 | 99% | 45900 kr | 51300 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 38800 kr | 43700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 93% | 44800 kr | 47400 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 46100 kr | 48500 kr |
| 45-54 | 90% | 50500 kr | 53500 kr |
| 55-64 | 103% | 45900 kr | 48600 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 46400 kr | 49100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 93% | 44800 kr | 47400 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 46100 kr | 48500 kr |
| 45-54 | 90% | 50500 kr | 53500 kr |
| 55-64 | 103% | 45900 kr | 48600 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 46400 kr | 49100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 32000 kr | 36100 kr |
| 25-34 | 96% | 36300 kr | 39800 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 40600 kr | 43200 kr |
| 45-54 | 95% | 43700 kr | 46400 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 46000 kr | 48600 kr |
| 65-68 | 98% | 48200 kr | 51500 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 40900 kr | 43900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 31700 kr | 36000 kr |
| 25-34 | 97% | 35200 kr | 39000 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 39300 kr | 42200 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 42700 kr | 45800 kr |
| 55-64 | 98% | 45100 kr | 48200 kr |
| 65-68 | 98% | 47200 kr | 50800 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 39600 kr | 43000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 67% | 50100 kr | 50200 kr |
| 35-44 | 83% | 59400 kr | 61200 kr |
| Snitt | 68% | 55800 kr | 56600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 93% | 35100 kr | 36500 kr |
| 25-34 | 96% | 39100 kr | 40600 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 41700 kr | 43200 kr |
| 45-54 | 98% | 44900 kr | 47200 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 46800 kr | 49200 kr |
| 65-68 | 98% | 49200 kr | 52300 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 43000 kr | 44900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 31600 kr | 36000 kr |
| 25-34 | 97% | 34800 kr | 38800 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 38900 kr | 42000 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 42400 kr | 45600 kr |
| 55-64 | 98% | 44800 kr | 48000 kr |
| 65-68 | 99% | 46800 kr | 50600 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 39200 kr | 42700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 35700 kr | 37800 kr | |
| 25-34 | 93% | 42200 kr | 44000 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 45000 kr | 46400 kr |
| 45-54 | 90% | 46800 kr | 48300 kr |
| 55-64 | 103% | 48600 kr | 49800 kr |
| 65-68 | 52300 kr | 54200 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 45800 kr | 47300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 35700 kr | 37800 kr | |
| 25-34 | 93% | 42200 kr | 44000 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 45000 kr | 46400 kr |
| 45-54 | 90% | 46800 kr | 48300 kr |
| 55-64 | 103% | 48600 kr | 49800 kr |
| 65-68 | 52300 kr | 54200 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 45800 kr | 47300 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Pain nurse has the SSYK code 2221, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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