Registered Nurse Salary in Santa Cruz, CA

Updated on May 09, 2025
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How much does a Registered Nurse make in Santa Cruz, CA?

The average salary for a Registered Nurse is $111,362 per year in Santa Cruz, CA.

Registered Nurses in Santa Cruz, CA, enjoy a rewarding career with a competitive salary. On average, a Registered Nurse can earn around $111,362 per year. This figure reflects the median salary, which means that half of the nurses earn more and half earn less. The range of salaries can vary based on experience, education, and specific healthcare settings.

Factors that influence salary include the nurse's level of experience, any specialized certifications, and the type of healthcare facility. For example, nurses working in hospitals may earn more than those in clinics or schools. Additionally, those with advanced degrees or certifications in areas like pediatrics or critical care often see higher pay. This diverse salary range makes nursing a stable and lucrative career choice in Santa Cruz, CA.

Registered Nurse jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

What are the highest paying cities for a Registered Nurse near Santa Cruz, CA?

Job seekers looking for top-paying Registered Nurse positions near Santa Cruz, CA, should consider Palo Alto. This city offers one of the highest salaries in the region, making it a prime location for those seeking better compensation. Nearby, San Jose also provides excellent opportunities with competitive pay, further expanding options for aspiring nurses in the area.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Registered Nurse jobs near Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting Boulder Creek, CA with the highest at $183,143 and San Jose, CA with the lowest at $123,497.
  1. Boulder Creek, CA
    Average Salary: $183,143
    In Boulder Creek, nurses find a peaceful environment with a strong community focus. Local hospitals offer excellent benefits and opportunities for professional growth. The serene setting provides a great work-life balance.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in Boulder Creek, CA


  2. Seaside, CA
    Average Salary: $154,642
    Seaside offers a vibrant community with a mix of urban and coastal living. Nurses here work in facilities that emphasize patient care and community health. The coastal location provides a relaxing atmosphere outside of work.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in Seaside, CA


  3. Palo Alto, CA
    Average Salary: $149,541
    Palo Alto is a hub for medical innovation, offering numerous opportunities for nurses to work with cutting-edge technology. Major healthcare institutions provide extensive training and career advancement options. The city's dynamic environment keeps work engaging.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in Palo Alto, CA


  4. Hollister, CA
    Average Salary: $141,921
    Hollister provides a welcoming community with a focus on family and healthcare. Nurses work in facilities that value teamwork and patient care. The city's small-town feel offers a supportive work environment.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in Hollister, CA


  5. Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
    Average Salary: $138,467
    Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a picturesque setting with a strong emphasis on wellness and quality of life. Nurses here enjoy a supportive community and work in facilities that prioritize patient comfort. The beautiful surroundings make for a pleasant work environment.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA


  6. Watsonville, CA
    Average Salary: $127,588
    Watsonville is a diverse community with a growing healthcare sector. Nurses find opportunities in various settings, from hospitals to clinics. The city's rich cultural heritage adds to the vibrant work atmosphere.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in Watsonville, CA


  7. King City, CA
    Average Salary: $124,298
    King City offers a close-knit community with a strong agricultural presence. Nurses work in facilities that focus on comprehensive care and community health. The rural setting provides a peaceful and rewarding work environment.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in King City, CA


  8. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $123,931
    Salinas is a vibrant city with a rich agricultural background. Nurses here work in a variety of settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. The city's diverse population offers a dynamic and engaging work environment.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in Salinas, CA


  9. Soquel, CA
    Average Salary: $123,746
    Soquel provides a charming coastal community with a focus on health and wellness. Nurses work in facilities that emphasize patient care and community support. The beautiful coastal environment offers a relaxing atmosphere outside of work.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in Soquel, CA


  10. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $123,497
    San Jose is a bustling city with a thriving healthcare sector. Nurses find numerous opportunities in cutting-edge medical facilities. The city's dynamic environment offers endless possibilities for career growth and professional development.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in San Jose, CA

What are the best paying companies for a Registered Nurse in Santa Cruz, CA?

Registered Nurses in Santa Cruz, CA, can find excellent opportunities with top-paying companies. Premier Home Health Providers, Inc. offers a competitive salary, making it a great choice for those seeking stability and growth. Sutter Health and Dignity Health also provide attractive compensation packages, ensuring nurses receive the benefits they deserve.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Registered Nurse jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting Best Home Health Providers with the highest at $224,286 and Naphcare, Inc. with the lowest at $115,000.
  1. Best Home Health Providers
    Average Salary: $224,286
    Best Home Health Providers offers rewarding Registered Nurse positions. They provide home health care services in Santa Cruz, CA. Nurses work with patients in their homes to ensure they receive the care they need.


  2. Premier Home Health Providers, Inc.
    Average Salary: $190,000
    Premier Home Health Providers, Inc. is a top-tier employer for Registered Nurses. They focus on delivering high-quality home health care. Nurses here work closely with patients and families in Santa Cruz, CA, to provide personalized care.


  3. Sutter Health
    Average Salary: $177,086
    Sutter Health is a well-known healthcare provider. They offer many opportunities for Registered Nurses in Santa Cruz, CA. Nurses work in various settings, including hospitals and clinics, to provide excellent patient care.


  4. Dignity Health
    Average Salary: $165,758
    Dignity Health provides diverse roles for Registered Nurses. They operate in Santa Cruz, CA, offering positions in hospitals and outpatient clinics. Nurses here focus on delivering compassionate and high-quality care to patients.


  5. Dominican Hospital Infusion Center
    Average Salary: $160,723
    Dominican Hospital Infusion Center offers specialized Registered Nurse positions. They focus on infusion therapy in Santa Cruz, CA. Nurses work in a supportive environment, providing critical care to patients receiving infusion treatments.


  6. Nomad Health
    Average Salary: $146,640
    Nomad Health provides dynamic opportunities for Registered Nurses. They offer travel nursing positions in Santa Cruz, CA. Nurses work in various healthcare settings, gaining diverse experiences while providing essential care.


  7. Hospice Care
    Average Salary: $142,500
    Hospice Care offers compassionate roles for Registered Nurses. They focus on end-of-life care in Santa Cruz, CA. Nurses provide comfort and support to patients and their families during difficult times.


  8. Wellpath
    Average Salary: $117,511
    Wellpath provides important healthcare services. They offer Registered Nurse positions in Santa Cruz, CA. Nurses work in correctional facilities, providing essential care to inmates.


  9. AMN Healthcare
    Average Salary: $115,067
    AMN Healthcare offers a variety of nursing positions. They operate in Santa Cruz, CA, providing opportunities for Registered Nurses in different healthcare settings. Nurses here work to support diverse patient needs.


  10. Naphcare, Inc.
    Average Salary: $115,000
    Naphcare, Inc. provides healthcare services in correctional facilities. They offer Registered Nurse positions in Santa Cruz, CA. Nurses work to ensure inmates receive the care they need in a secure environment.

Currently 97,490 Registered Nurse job openings, nationwide.

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Position
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Registered Nurse
97,490 Job Openings