What is the average salary in Merced, CA?
Job seekers looking at salaries in Merced, CA, have access to a range of earning potentials across different industries. The average yearly salary stands at $70,807. This figure provides a baseline for understanding the economic landscape of the area.
Merced has a diverse job market, offering opportunities in various sectors. The highest-paying jobs include roles such as software developers, earning around $131,145 per year, and healthcare professionals, who earn about $147,419 annually. Other well-paid positions include financial managers and engineers. For those in education, salaries range around $66,048. This diversity ensures that job seekers can find a good match for their skills and experience.
What are the best paying jobs in Merced, CA?

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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $157,887
Care for patients in local clinics. Provide primary and specialty care. Work with local healthcare providers to improve patient health.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $129,619
Travel to different areas to provide care. Work in hospitals or clinics. Assist patients with their medical needs.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $118,703
Provide patient care in hospitals or clinics. Work under the supervision of doctors. Assist with medical procedures and care plans.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $117,531
Help patients regain skills after injury or illness. Work in rehabilitation centers. Use various techniques to improve patient's daily living skills.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $117,426
Help patients with communication difficulties. Work in schools or hospitals. Use therapy to improve speech and language skills.
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Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $92,779
Work with individuals with autism or other developmental disorders. Develop treatment plans. Observe and record patient behavior.
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Registered Dietitian
Average Salary: $91,257
Provide nutrition advice to patients. Work in clinics or hospitals. Create personalized diet plans for patients.
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Clinical Supervisor
Average Salary: $91,022
Oversee clinical staff in healthcare settings. Ensure staff follow protocols. Provide training and support to staff members.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $78,444
Drive large vehicles safely. Transport goods or materials. Follow traffic and company regulations.
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Surgical Technician
Average Salary: $76,149
Assist surgeons during operations. Prepare the operating room. Handle surgical instruments and equipment.
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What are the best paying jobs in Merced, CA without a degree?

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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $44,947
Housekeeping staff maintain cleanliness and order in residential or commercial settings. Tasks include cleaning rooms, changing linens, and ensuring a pleasant environment. This role is ideal for those who appreciate a tidy, welcoming space.
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Barista
Average Salary: $41,966
Baristas craft and serve coffee beverages at cafes and restaurants. They interact with customers, take orders, and prepare drinks. This position is perfect for coffee lovers who enjoy a fast-paced work environment.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $36,964
Landscapers design and maintain outdoor areas for both residential and commercial properties. They plant flowers, trim hedges, and create beautiful landscapes. This job is suitable for those who enjoy working outdoors and appreciate nature.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $36,634
Line cooks prepare food in large quantities in a fast-paced kitchen setting. They work with other kitchen staff to ensure timely food delivery. This role is ideal for those who love cooking and working as part of a team.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $34,333
Dishwasher jobs involve cleaning dishes, pots, and utensils in a commercial kitchen. Duties include washing and drying dishes and maintaining a clean workspace. This position is perfect for those who value a clean and organized environment.
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Server
Average Salary: $33,488
Servers work in restaurants to take customer orders, serve food and beverages, and ensure a pleasant dining experience. They interact with guests and assist in various kitchen tasks. This job is great for those who enjoy social interactions and hospitality.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Merced, CA?

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CommonSpirit Health
Average Salary: $141,637
CommonSpirit Health is a large, not-for-profit health system. It offers a range of medical services and has a reputation for providing quality care.
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Merced College
Average Salary: $112,025
Merced College is a community college that provides education and training. It is known for its supportive learning environment and diverse student body.
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Bristol Hospice
Average Salary: $86,583
Bristol Hospice offers compassionate care for people in the final stages of life. It is a non-profit organization that values its employees.
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Golden Valley Health Centers
Average Salary: $75,997
Golden Valley Health Centers provide medical, dental, and mental health services. They focus on community health and have multiple locations in Merced.
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University of California Merced
Average Salary: $71,014
The University of California Merced is a public research university. It offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
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Avalon Health Care Group
Average Salary: $68,678
Avalon Health Care Group provides healthcare staffing solutions. They partner with healthcare organizations to meet staffing needs.
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City of Merced
Average Salary: $66,443
The City of Merced offers a range of jobs in public service. It is committed to providing essential services to the community.
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La Sierra Care Center
Average Salary: $59,280
La Sierra Care Center provides skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. They focus on patient care and comfort.
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STARS Behavioral Health Group
Average Salary: $51,477
STARS Behavioral Health Group offers behavioral health services. They are dedicated to improving the mental health of their clients.
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Starbucks
Average Salary: $51,051
Starbucks is a well-known coffee company. It offers a variety of job opportunities in retail and customer service.
How does the cost of living in Merced, CA compare to the national average?

Merced, CA, features a cost of living index that paints a mixed picture compared to the nationwide average. Housing stands out with an index of 130, indicating that costs are 30% higher than the national average. This elevated figure suggests that renters and homeowners in Merced will find their housing expenses notably higher than those in other parts of the country.
In contrast, the grocery index for Merced is 105, which means groceries are 5% more expensive than the national average. Utilities in Merced have an index of 95, placing them 5% below the national average. Transportation costs reflect a 10% increase over the national average with an index of 110. Healthcare costs remain on par with the nationwide average at 100, offering some relief to residents. Miscellaneous expenses show a slight increase with an index of 102, indicating a 2% rise above the national average. Altogether, Merced presents a cost of living scenario that has both higher and lower costs in different categories.



