Objective To investigate the core competency among specialist nurses in Hubei Province, and to analyze its influencing factors, so as to provide a reference for formulating targeted management strategies. Methods In October 2024, a convenience sampling method was used to select specialist nurses from 165 secondary and tertiary hospitals in Hubei Province， then they were surveyed by using a general information questionnaire and the core competency evaluation scale for specialist nurses. Results A total of 2,194 specialist nurses were included.The participants′ total score of core competency was (241.67±29.90).Among the seven dimensions, professional quality scored the highest (4.57±0.48), while scientific and technological innovation ability scored the lowest (3.77±0.68). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that, age, educational level, position, monthly income, hospital type, department, hospital funding support for specialist nurse training, appointment standard, assessment frequency, qualification re-certification requirements, and professional role expansion were influencing factors for core competency among specialist nurses (all P＜0.05). Conclusion The core competency of specialist nurses in Hubei Province is above the moderate level and is influenced by various factors.Nursing managers should develop and implement management measures targeting the identified influencing factors to improve the core competency of specialist nurses and promote the high-quality development of specialist nursing.