Salaries in Merced, CA
What is the average salary in Merced, CA?
Merced, CA offers a variety of salary options across different industries. The average salary in Merced is around $69,263. This figure provides a good overview of the earning potential in the area. Salaries can vary widely based on the job sector and experience level.
Some of the highest-paying industries in Merced include:
- Information Technology: $178,880
- Healthcare: $165,527
- Finance: $152,175
- Engineering: $138,822
- Education: $125,469
- Business: $112,116
- Sales: $98,764
- Manufacturing: $85,411
- Retail: $72,058
- Construction: $58,705
- Hospitality: $45,353
Job seekers in Merced can find competitive salaries, especially in the tech and healthcare sectors. Exploring these industries can lead to rewarding career opportunities.
What are the best paying jobs in Merced, CA?

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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $150,131
Nurse Practitioners work in clinics and hospitals, providing primary and specialty care. They diagnose and treat health conditions, prescribe medications, and manage patient care. Local healthcare providers like Mercy Medical Center offer opportunities for growth.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $128,002
Traveling Nurses move to different locations to fill staffing needs. They work in various settings, including hospitals and clinics. Agencies like Aya Healthcare and TravelNurseSource connect them with jobs in Merced, offering flexibility and adventure.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $112,565
Registered Nurses provide essential care in hospitals and clinics. They monitor patients, administer treatments, and coordinate care. Local employers such as Mercy Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente offer stable and rewarding positions.
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What are the best paying jobs in Merced, CA without a degree?

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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $43,356
This role involves helping servers with tasks. It requires good communication and teamwork skills. It is a great entry-level job in the hospitality industry.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $41,132
This job focuses on maintaining outdoor spaces. It includes tasks like mowing, trimming, and planting. It is ideal for those who enjoy working outdoors.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $40,655
This position involves assisting in food preparation. It requires attention to detail and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. It is a good fit for those interested in the culinary field.
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Barista
Average Salary: $40,025
This role involves preparing and serving coffee drinks. It requires customer service skills and the ability to work quickly. It is a popular job in cafes and restaurants.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $37,357
This job involves cleaning and maintaining rooms. It requires attention to detail and the ability to work independently. It is a good option for those looking for a steady job.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $35,918
This role involves designing and maintaining outdoor areas. It includes tasks like planting, pruning, and landscaping. It is ideal for those who enjoy working outdoors and creating beautiful spaces.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $34,936
This position involves preparing food in a fast-paced kitchen. It requires strong cooking skills and the ability to work under pressure. It is a good fit for those interested in the culinary field.
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Server
Average Salary: $33,051
This role involves taking orders and serving food and drinks. It requires good communication and customer service skills. It is a popular job in the hospitality industry.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $32,698
This job involves cleaning dishes and kitchen equipment. It requires attention to detail and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. It is a good entry-level job in the food service industry.
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To Go Specialist
Average Salary: $32,529
This role involves preparing and packaging food for takeout. It requires strong organizational skills and the ability to work quickly. It is a good fit for those interested in the food service industry.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Merced, CA?

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Merced College
Average Salary: $97,620
Merced College offers a variety of academic and vocational programs. It is a great place for those looking to advance their education and career.
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Dignity Health
Average Salary: $97,295
Dignity Health is a healthcare provider with many locations. It offers a range of medical services and is known for its strong employee benefits.
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University of California Merced
Average Salary: $73,623
UC Merced is a public university that provides a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It is known for its innovative approach to education.
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Golden Valley Health Centers
Average Salary: $73,326
Golden Valley Health Centers is a community health organization that provides medical, dental, and mental health services. It is committed to serving underserved communities.
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Avalon Health Care Group
Average Salary: $68,212
Avalon Health Care Group offers skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. It is a leading provider in the region, known for its quality care.
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Merced Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Average Salary: $67,495
This center provides long-term care and rehabilitation services. It is dedicated to helping patients recover and improve their quality of life.
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La Sierra Care Center
Average Salary: $64,818
La Sierra Care Center offers skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. It is known for its compassionate and professional care.
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City of Merced
Average Salary: $64,381
The City of Merced provides various municipal services. It is a great place for those interested in public service and community development.
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Healthcare Services Group
Average Salary: $57,176
Healthcare Services Group offers a range of healthcare services. It is known for its commitment to patient care and employee satisfaction.
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CALIFORNIA PSYCHIATRIC TRANSITIONS
Average Salary: $47,576
California Psychiatric Transitions provides mental health services. It is dedicated to helping individuals transition through various mental health challenges.
How does the cost of living in Merced, CA compare to the national average?

Merced, California, shows a cost of living index that varies across different categories when compared to the nationwide average. Housing costs in Merced stand at 129, which is 29% higher than the average. This means that the expenses for renting or buying a home in Merced are significantly above the national norm. For groceries, the cost of living index is 106, indicating a 6% increase over the average. This suggests that while grocery prices are not excessively high, they are still somewhat above the national standard.
Utilities in Merced have a cost of living index of 98, which is 2% below the average. This indicates that residents may find utility costs slightly more affordable than the national average. Transportation costs in Merced are at 110, which is 10% higher than the average. This shows that commuting and other transportation-related expenses are somewhat elevated. Healthcare costs in Merced are at 93, which is 7% below the average. This suggests that healthcare expenses in Merced are more affordable compared to the national average. Miscellaneous costs in Merced have an index of 102, which is 2% higher than the average. This indicates that other miscellaneous expenses are slightly more expensive than the average.