•The influence of the type of deposition solution and pH is presented for nickel nanowires.•The influence of pH is evident as it alters the deposition rate if we use pH of 2.5 and 3.5.•The FMR resonance field values showed evidence of structural changes within the wires. This study presents the influence of pH and precursors present in the electrolyte on the microstructure and magnetic properties of nickel nanowires. Polycarbonate membranes were used as a template for electrodeposition of nanowires. The SEM results showed that the wires have lengths ranging from 2.68 ± 0.28 µm to 18.77 ± 1.18 µm. X-ray diffraction confirmed the fcc structure of Ni0 and demonstrated how different solutions can modify the reflection intensity of the peaks. Finally, ferromagnetic resonance spectra demonstrated how pH and precursors present in the electrolyte can modify the ferromagnetic response of NiNWs grown on polycarbonate membranes, emphasizing the influence of both factors on the magnetic behavior of nanowires. This study provides an understanding of the role that solution chemistry plays in the manufacture of magnetic nanomaterials.