What is the average salary in Merced, CA?
Merced, CA, offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary in Merced is $70,638. This figure represents a strong earning potential across many industries. Here’s a look at some common jobs and their average salaries:
Different sectors see different pay scales. For example, in Merced, roles in education, health care, and public administration tend to have higher salaries. A teacher can earn around $81,273 per year, while a public administrator can expect to make about $97,364 annually. On the other hand, roles in retail and farming often come with lower salaries, averaging around $33,000 and $49,091, respectively. Despite these variations, the overall job market in Merced provides numerous options for those seeking to balance salary with their career interests.
What are the best paying jobs in Merced, CA?

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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $159,705
Provides primary and specialized care to patients. Works in local clinics and hospitals. Opportunities exist with Mercy Medical Center.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $128,899
Travels to different locations to provide nursing care. Assignments are often with local healthcare facilities. Offers flexibility and varied experiences.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $117,920
Delivers patient care and coordinates with doctors and other healthcare staff. Works in Mercy Medical Center and other local hospitals. Ensures patient well-being and recovery.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $116,422
Helps patients improve their daily living skills. Works in rehabilitation centers and schools. Supports patients in regaining independence.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $116,064
Evaluates and treats communication and swallowing disorders. Works in hospitals and clinics. Helps patients improve their language and communication skills.
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Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $94,155
Assess and improve the behaviors of clients. Works in schools and clinics. Uses data-driven methods to help clients achieve their goals.
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Clinical Supervisor
Average Salary: $93,043
Manages and oversees clinical staff. Works in healthcare facilities. Ensures staff provides high-quality patient care.
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Registered Dietitian
Average Salary: $90,446
Develops nutrition plans for patients. Works in hospitals and private practices. Helps patients achieve their health goals through diet.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $76,874
Transports goods and materials. Works for logistics and transportation companies. Requires a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
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Surgical Technician
Average Salary: $76,082
Assists surgeons during operations. Works in hospitals. Ensures the operating room is prepared and instruments are sterile.
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What are the best paying jobs in Merced, CA without a degree?

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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $47,744
Working in local dining establishments, you support servers by setting up tables and clearing dishes. Companies like local restaurants and cafes offer these roles. The work is steady, with opportunities for tips.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $44,947
Cleaning hotel rooms or private homes, you ensure a tidy environment. Companies such as hotel chains and residential cleaning services need your help. The job is crucial, as it keeps spaces comfortable and inviting.
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Barista
Average Salary: $41,806
Brewing coffee and other beverages, you provide a welcoming atmosphere in cafes. Employers include local coffee shops and fast-food chains. The role is interactive, as you serve customers and create their drinks.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $36,964
Maintaining outdoor areas, you work in parks or private gardens. Landscaping firms and municipal parks hire for these roles. The job involves physical work, but it also allows you to enjoy the outdoors.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $36,634
Prepping ingredients and cooking dishes, you play a key role in the kitchen. Restaurants and food trucks need your skills. The job requires teamwork, as you work closely with other kitchen staff to meet orders.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $34,027
Cleaning dishes and kitchen equipment, you ensure the workspace is spotless. Employers include restaurants and food service companies. The work is routine, but it’s essential for a clean and efficient kitchen.
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Server
Average Salary: $33,170
Taking orders and serving food to customers, you ensure they have a pleasant dining experience. Local restaurants and cafes hire for these positions. The job involves interacting with customers, requiring good communication skills.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Merced, CA?

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CommonSpirit Health
Average Salary: $146,102
CommonSpirit Health is a large healthcare provider. They offer a range of services, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. Their team values quality care and innovation.
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Merced College
Average Salary: $109,261
Merced College is a well-known higher education institution. It provides a variety of academic programs. The college focuses on student success and community engagement.
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Bristol Hospice
Average Salary: $86,543
Bristol Hospice offers compassionate end-of-life care. Their team supports patients and families during challenging times. They are dedicated to providing comfort and dignity.
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Golden Valley Health Centers
Average Salary: $77,096
Golden Valley Health Centers provide comprehensive medical services. They serve communities with a focus on accessibility and quality care. The centers aim to improve health outcomes in the region.
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University of California Merced
Average Salary: $72,325
The University of California Merced is a public university. It offers diverse academic programs. The university fosters research and student development.
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Avalon Health Care Group
Average Salary: $69,832
Avalon Health Care Group provides senior living and post-acute care services. They focus on patient care and quality of life. The group's facilities are known for their comfort and care.
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City of Merced
Average Salary: $67,343
The City of Merced offers various municipal services. They focus on community development and public safety. The city aims to enhance the quality of life for its residents.
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La Sierra Care Center
Average Salary: $60,189
La Sierra Care Center provides skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. They focus on patient recovery and well-being. The center offers personalized care plans.
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STARS Behavioral Health Group
Average Salary: $50,840
STARS Behavioral Health Group offers mental health services. They provide counseling and support to individuals and families. The group is committed to improving mental health outcomes.
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Starbucks
Average Salary: $50,277
Starbucks is a global coffeehouse chain. They offer a wide range of coffee and food products. Starbucks values customer service and community engagement.
How does the cost of living in Merced, CA compare to the national average?

Merced, California, presents a unique cost of living compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Notably, housing costs in Merced stand at 110, indicating that job seekers might face 10% higher expenses for housing than the national average. This rise could be significant for those looking to relocate and should consider their budget and potential salary increases when planning a move.
Merced's grocery costs also reflect a slight difference, sitting at 95 on the cost of living index. This means that groceries are 5% less expensive compared to the nationwide average. Utilities cost 105, reflecting a 5% increase. Transportation costs are on par with the national average at 100. Health care costs, at 90, are 10% below the average, potentially offering some relief for those concerned about medical expenses. Miscellaneous costs match the national average at 100, providing no change from what one might expect elsewhere in the country. This mix of higher and lower costs offers a varied landscape for potential residents.



