What is the average salary in Merced, CA?
Merced, CA, offers a diverse job market with varying salary ranges across different industries. The average yearly salary for workers in Merced stands at $69,519, making it a competitive place to find employment. Several key sectors significantly contribute to this salary distribution.
The top-paying jobs in Merced include roles in the finance, insurance, and real estate sectors, with salaries reaching up to $132,636 per year. Other well-paying jobs include those in healthcare and computer-related fields, with average earnings of around $116,164 and $99,691, respectively. These industries highlight the potential for higher incomes, offering a variety of opportunities for those seeking well-compensated positions.
What are the best paying jobs in Merced, CA?

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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $159,272
These professionals care for patients, diagnose illnesses, and work in clinics and hospitals. They collaborate with doctors to provide quality care. Merced Regional Medical Center is one of the main employers in the area.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $129,690
Travel nurses move from one location to another to help care for patients. They fill gaps where there are not enough nurses. Kaiser Permanente often needs these nurses to meet patient care needs.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $121,474
These therapists help people recover from injuries and improve their ability to perform daily tasks. They work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and schools. The Center for Therapeutic Development employs many of these specialists.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $119,766
Registered nurses provide patient care and help doctors. They work in various settings like hospitals and clinics. Mercy Medical Center frequently hires nurses to meet local healthcare needs.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $119,522
These professionals work with patients who have communication and swallowing disorders. They provide therapy and create treatment plans. Local schools and hospitals often hire these specialists.
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Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $94,435
Behavior analysts study and improve patients' behaviors. They work with children and adults who have developmental disorders. Local clinics and educational institutions are common employers.
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Clinical Supervisor
Average Salary: $91,682
Clinical supervisors manage healthcare staff. They ensure patient care is of high quality. Hospitals and clinics rely on their leadership to maintain smooth operations.
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Registered Dietitian
Average Salary: $90,612
Dietitians create meal plans for patients with specific health needs. They work in hospitals and private practices. Local healthcare facilities often need their expertise.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $79,647
CDL drivers transport goods and materials. They must follow safety regulations. Local logistics and transportation companies frequently hire these drivers.
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Surgical Technician
Average Salary: $77,426
These technicians assist surgeons during operations. They prepare the operating room and instruments. Hospitals and surgical centers in the area regularly need their skills.
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What are the best paying jobs in Merced, CA without a degree?

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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $45,666
Cleaning and maintaining spaces. Working in hotels or large facilities. Attention to detail is key. Housekeeping staff ensure a pleasant environment.
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Barista
Average Salary: $42,056
Preparing coffee drinks. Serving customers in coffee shops. Requires skill in beverage preparation. Interaction with customers enhances service quality.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $36,548
Prepping food for customers. Working fast in a busy kitchen. Requires basic cooking skills. Line cooks ensure food is ready in a timely manner.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $34,547
Cleaning dishes and utensils. Working in restaurants and hotels. Requires attention to cleanliness. Dishwashes help keep dining areas sanitized.
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Server
Average Salary: $33,807
Taking orders and serving food. Working in busy environments. Requires good customer service skills. Servers interact with customers to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Merced, CA?

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CommonSpirit Health
Average Salary: $136,611
CommonSpirit Health is a health organization with a focus on providing care to those in need. They offer a variety of positions, from healthcare to administrative roles.
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Merced College
Average Salary: $111,710
Merced College offers education and training. It's a place where people can learn new skills or advance their careers.
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Bristol Hospice
Average Salary: $86,892
Bristol Hospice focuses on providing care for people at the end of their lives. They offer compassionate support and professional services.
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Golden Valley Health Centers
Average Salary: $77,107
Golden Valley Health Centers provides medical, dental, and mental health services. They aim to deliver quality care to the community.
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Avalon Health Care Group
Average Salary: $68,989
Avalon Health Care Group is a provider of home health and hospice care. They strive to offer compassionate and high-quality care.
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City of Merced
Average Salary: $67,695
The City of Merced offers many job opportunities in government, public safety, and community services. It's a great place for those interested in public service.
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University of California Merced
Average Salary: $67,342
UC Merced is a public university offering a range of academic and research opportunities. It's known for its commitment to student success.
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Starbucks
Average Salary: $51,379
Starbucks is a global coffee company and coffeehouse chain. They offer jobs in various roles, from baristas to store managers.
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STARS Behavioral Health Group
Average Salary: $51,277
STARS Behavioral Health Group provides behavioral health services. They focus on helping people with mental health and substance abuse issues.
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Delaware North
Average Salary: $37,950
Delaware North is a global hospitality company. They offer a variety of jobs in entertainment, sports, and travel.
How does the cost of living in Merced, CA compare to the national average?

Merced, CA, has a cost of living index that provides an insightful comparison to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Merced stand at 105, indicating that it is 5% more expensive than the national average. This slight increase in housing costs reflects the demand for residential properties in the area. Additionally, groceries in Merced are slightly lower, with an index of 98, showing a 2% decrease. This means that buying groceries in Merced is more affordable compared to the nationwide average.
Utilities in Merced, with an index of 95, show a 5% savings when compared to the national average, making it a more budget-friendly option for residents. Transportation costs slightly exceed the national average at 102, indicating a 2% increase. Healthcare costs are more favorable, as Merced’s index of 92 suggests an 8% decrease, providing potential savings in this essential area. Overall, Merced offers a competitive cost of living with certain categories providing more affordable options compared to the national average.



