How much does a Acute Care Nurse make?
Acute Care Nurses play a vital role in healthcare, providing immediate and intensive care to patients. Their work is crucial, and their salaries reflect the importance of their role. The average yearly salary for an Acute Care Nurse is around $99,564. This figure can vary based on several factors, including experience, location, and the specific healthcare setting.
Acute Care Nurses often see higher salaries in metropolitan areas and in states with a higher cost of living. For instance, those working in urban centers may earn more than the national average. Experience also plays a significant role. Nurses with more years in the field typically earn higher salaries. Additionally, those who hold advanced certifications or work in specialized units may see higher pay. The commitment to ongoing education and professional development can lead to better-paying opportunities.
What are the highest paying cities for a Acute Care Nurse?

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Dayton, OH
Average Salary: $139,792
In Dayton, nurses find rewarding work in top hospitals. Kettering Health and Premier Health offer excellent opportunities. The community support and cost of living make it a great place to work and live.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $135,475
San Francisco provides a dynamic environment for nurses. UCSF Health and Kaiser Permanente offer cutting-edge care. The city's vibrant culture and high demand for healthcare services create a fulfilling work experience.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $132,383
Portland is known for its progressive healthcare system. OHSU and Kaiser Permanente are prominent employers. The city's focus on wellness and outdoor activities enhances the quality of life for nurses.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $122,609
Seattle offers a mix of urban and natural settings. Swedish Medical Center and Virginia Mason are top employers. The city's tech-driven economy and beautiful landscapes provide a balanced lifestyle.
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Sioux Falls, SD
Average Salary: $120,286
Sioux Falls has a growing healthcare sector. Avera Health and Sanford Health are leading employers. The city's lower cost of living and friendly community make it an attractive place to work.
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Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $116,991
Rochester is home to renowned healthcare institutions. Strong Memorial Hospital and Mayo Clinic offer excellent opportunities. The city's rich history and cultural events add to the overall experience.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $115,489
Spokane provides a blend of urban and outdoor living. Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and MultiCare are key employers. The city's natural beauty and outdoor activities enhance the lifestyle for nurses.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $114,519
Albany offers a mix of historical charm and modern healthcare. Albany Medical Center and St. Peter's Health Partner Services are top employers. The city's cultural events and affordable living make it a great choice.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $111,563
Des Moines has a strong healthcare network. MercyOne and UnityPoint Health are leading employers. The city's welcoming community and lower cost of living provide a balanced lifestyle for nurses.
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Omaha, NE
Average Salary: $111,506
Omaha offers a vibrant healthcare scene. Nebraska Medicine and CHI Health are prominent employers. The city's affordable living and friendly community make it an attractive place to work.
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What are the best companies a Acute Care Nurse can work for?

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Atlas Search
Average Salary: $125,000
Atlas Search offers top-tier Acute Care Nurse positions with competitive salaries. They operate nationwide, providing opportunities in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
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Clinical Management Consultants
Average Salary: $118,434
Clinical Management Consultants provides excellent Acute Care Nurse jobs. They work with hospitals across the country, including locations in Texas, California, and Florida.
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Fidé
Average Salary: $114,836
Fidé offers rewarding Acute Care Nurse positions. They have placements in many states, including New York, Pennsylvania, and Illinois.
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Genie Healthcare
Average Salary: $114,078
Genie Healthcare provides high-paying Acute Care Nurse jobs. They serve hospitals in states like California, New York, and Texas.
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MedPro Healthcare Staffing
Average Salary: $100,033
MedPro Healthcare Staffing offers competitive Acute Care Nurse salaries. They have placements in many states, including Florida, Illinois, and New York.
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OneStaff Medical
Average Salary: $99,769
OneStaff Medical provides Acute Care Nurse jobs with good salaries. They operate in states like California, Texas, and Florida.
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Bassett Healthcare Network
Average Salary: $98,420
Bassett Healthcare Network offers Acute Care Nurse positions with solid salaries. They serve hospitals in New York and Pennsylvania.
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Supplemental Health Care
Average Salary: $96,865
Supplemental Health Care provides Acute Care Nurse jobs with competitive pay. They have placements in many states, including California, Texas, and Florida.
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Emory Healthcare
Average Salary: $92,831
Emory Healthcare offers Acute Care Nurse positions with good salaries. They operate in Georgia, providing opportunities in Atlanta and surrounding areas.
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UPMC
Average Salary: $83,271
UPMC offers Acute Care Nurse jobs with competitive pay. They serve hospitals in Pennsylvania and New York.
How to earn more as a Acute Care Nurse?
Acute Care Nurses play a crucial role in healthcare, providing immediate and intensive care to patients. To earn more in this field, consider the following factors that can enhance your salary and career prospects.
First, gaining additional certifications can significantly boost your earning potential. Certifications in areas such as critical care nursing (CCRN) or emergency nursing (CEN) are highly valued. These credentials demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field, making you more attractive to employers. Another factor is experience. The more years you spend in acute care, the more skilled you become. Experience often leads to higher pay and more opportunities for advancement. Location also plays a key role. Certain regions offer higher salaries due to the cost of living and demand for healthcare services. Urban areas and states with a shortage of nurses typically provide better compensation. Specialization in a specific area of acute care, such as cardiac or trauma nursing, can also lead to higher pay. Specialized nurses are in high demand and often command higher salaries. Finally, pursuing a higher degree, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), can open doors to higher-paying positions. Advanced degrees often lead to roles such as nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist, which offer greater earning potential.
By focusing on these factors, Acute Care Nurses can enhance their earning potential and advance their careers.
- Obtain additional certifications
- Gain more experience
- Choose a high-paying location
- Specialize in a specific area
- Pursue a higher degree