What is the average salary in Merced, CA?
In Merced, CA, the average yearly salary stands at $69,136, offering a solid income potential. Merced provides a diverse job market with a range of opportunities across different industries.
Job seekers will find roles that include:
- Agriculture, with a median salary of $33,800.
- Education and health services, averaging $49,818 per year.
- Professional and business services, offering $65,836 annually.
- Manufacturing, with a median salary of $81,855.
- Management roles, averaging $97,873 per year.
- Information technology, offering $113,891 annually.
- Finance and insurance, with a median salary of $129,909.
- Arts, entertainment, and recreation, averaging $145,927 per year.
- Construction, with a median salary of $161,945.
- Management of companies and enterprises, averaging $177,964 per year.
- Real estate and rental and leasing, with a median salary of $193,982.
- Other services, averaging $210,000 per year.
What are the best paying jobs in Merced, CA?

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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $159,030
This role works with patients of all ages, offering primary and specialty care. The city's hospitals and clinics need these professionals. They diagnose and treat conditions, prescribe medication, and manage care.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $133,392
Traveling nurses provide care in various settings. They often work for temporary staffing agencies, allowing them to work in different hospitals and clinics in the city. This role offers flexibility and diverse experiences.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $122,974
RNs play a crucial role in patient care. They work in hospitals, clinics, and home care settings. This job involves administering medication, monitoring patients, and coordinating care. The city has many facilities needing dedicated nursing staff.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $121,811
Occupational therapists help people recover from injuries and improve their daily living skills. They work in hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers. This role allows them to make a significant impact on people’s lives.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $121,367
These professionals work with people who have communication and swallowing disorders. They provide therapy in schools, hospitals, and private practices. Their work helps individuals improve their ability to communicate and eat safely.
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Clinical Supervisor
Average Salary: $101,229
Clinical supervisors oversee the work of nurses and other healthcare staff. They ensure quality care and manage team performance. This role is vital in hospitals and clinics to maintain high standards of care.
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Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $97,440
Behavior analysts work with individuals to improve their behaviors. They often work in schools and clinics, focusing on developmental and behavioral issues. This role helps people achieve better outcomes in their daily lives.
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Registered Dietitian
Average Salary: $90,024
Registered dietitians create nutrition plans for individuals and groups. They work in hospitals, schools, and private practices. This role involves educating people on healthy eating habits and managing dietary needs.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $83,457
CDL drivers transport goods and materials. They often work for logistics companies and drive trucks. This job requires a Commercial Driver’s License and adherence to safety regulations.
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Surgical Technician
Average Salary: $77,845
Surgical technicians assist surgeons during operations. They prepare the operating room, handle instruments, and support the surgical team. This role is essential in hospitals and surgical centers.
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What are the best paying jobs in Merced, CA without a degree?

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Barista
Average Salary: $42,188
A barista serves coffee and other beverages. They work at coffee shops and restaurants. Well-known places in Merced include Peet’s Coffee and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. Skills in making various coffee drinks and providing good customer service are important.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $36,279
A line cook prepares meals quickly and efficiently in a kitchen. They work in restaurants like Denny’s and Taco Bell in Merced. They need to follow recipes and work well under pressure to meet orders on time.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $34,479
A dishwasher cleans dishes and kitchen equipment. They work at restaurants like McDonald’s and The Cheesecake Factory. This job requires attention to detail and the ability to handle hot water and soap safely.
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Server
Average Salary: $34,108
A server takes orders and serves food and drinks to customers. They work in places like TGI Fridays and The Melting Pot. They need to be friendly, provide good service, and remember customer orders accurately.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Merced, CA?

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CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region
Average Salary: $132,529
CommonSpirit Health is one of the largest health care systems in the country. The company offers a variety of positions, from clinical roles to administrative jobs. They value teamwork and provide many opportunities for career growth.
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Vitana Inc
Average Salary: $128,560
Vitana Inc. offers services for people with developmental disabilities. They provide supportive living, education, and employment options. Working here means helping people live fulfilling lives.
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MERCED COLLEGE FOUNDATION
Average Salary: $90,356
MERCED COLLEGE FOUNDATION supports Merced College. They help students achieve their educational goals through scholarships and grants. It’s a great place to work if you enjoy supporting education and student success.
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Bristol Hospice
Average Salary: $87,271
Bristol Hospice offers end-of-life care for patients and support for their families. The company values compassion and dignity in all they do. Working here allows you to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
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Golden Valley Health Centers
Average Salary: $72,980
Golden Valley Health Centers provide medical, dental, and mental health care. They focus on serving low-income and underserved communities. It’s a rewarding place to work if you care about community health.
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Avalon Health Care Group
Average Salary: $71,949
Avalon Health Care Group offers skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. They work with patients to help them recover and return home. It’s a good place if you like helping others regain their independence.
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University of California, Merced
Average Salary: $68,918
The University of California, Merced, is a public university that offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Working here means being part of an institution dedicated to education and research.
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City of Merced
Average Salary: $67,777
The City of Merced provides essential services to its residents. From public safety to parks and recreation, city workers play a vital role in the community. It’s a stable job with a variety of opportunities.
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Starbucks
Average Salary: $51,404
Starbucks is a well-known coffee retailer. Working here means serving high-quality coffee and creating a welcoming environment for customers. It’s a great place for those who enjoy interacting with people.
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Stars Behavioral Health Group
Average Salary: $50,927
Stars Behavioral Health Group offers mental health and substance abuse treatment. They focus on helping people overcome challenges and improve their lives. Working here is rewarding for those who care about mental health support.
How does the cost of living in Merced, CA compare to the national average?

Merced, California, has a unique cost of living when compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing in Merced is notably higher, with an index of 130, meaning it costs 30% more than the national average. This increase can significantly impact individuals and families considering moving to the area.
The transportation cost in Merced is slightly above the average, standing at 105, which indicates a 5% increase. This slight rise might add to the monthly expenses for those commuting to work. Groceries in Merced have an index of 110, reflecting a 10% increase over the national average. This increase means that food costs are somewhat higher in Merced compared to other areas. Utilities and healthcare costs are below the average in Merced, with indexes of 95 and 95, respectively, suggesting a 5% savings in these areas. Miscellaneous costs are on par with the national average, with an index of 100. Job seekers should carefully consider these factors when planning their move to Merced, California.



