How much does a Acute Care Nurse make?
Acute care nurses play a vital role in treating patients who need immediate and intensive care. They work in hospital settings, such as emergency rooms and intensive care units. The average yearly salary for an acute care nurse stands at around $102,044. This salary can vary based on experience and location.
Salaries for acute care nurses can range from about $53,437 to $156,728 annually. This range reflects different levels of expertise and job responsibilities. Acute care nurses often have many years of experience. They handle complex medical situations and need strong decision-making skills. This dedication to patient care and expertise helps them earn a competitive salary.
Some factors that can affect an acute care nurse's salary include:
- Years of experience
- Advanced certifications
- Location
- Type of hospital or healthcare facility
What are the highest paying cities for a Acute Care Nurse?

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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $163,800
In Sacramento, skilled nurses find rewarding work in top hospitals like UC Davis Medical Center. The city offers a blend of dynamic healthcare facilities and a supportive professional community. Working here allows nurses to enhance their skills and make a significant impact on patient care.
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Dayton, OH
Average Salary: $148,106
Dayton provides a vibrant setting for nurses at renowned institutions such as Kettering Health Network. The city's emphasis on healthcare excellence creates a nurturing environment for professional growth. Nurses here enjoy a balance of challenging work and community support.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $137,241
In Portland, nurses benefit from working in cutting-edge facilities like Oregon Health & Science University. The city's focus on health and wellness fosters a collaborative work atmosphere. Here, nurses can thrive while contributing to innovative patient care.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $130,477
San Jose offers excellent opportunities for nurses at Stanford Health Care. The city's thriving tech industry complements the healthcare sector, creating a unique and stimulating work environment. Nurses here can expect to be part of a forward-thinking and supportive community.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $128,080
Seattle provides a dynamic healthcare environment with institutions like Virginia Mason Medical Center. The city's innovative spirit and excellent healthcare facilities make it an ideal place for nurses. Here, professionals can expect to engage in cutting-edge care while enjoying a vibrant urban lifestyle.
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Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $126,740
In Rochester, nurses work in prestigious hospitals such as Mayo Clinic. The city’s strong healthcare network and emphasis on medical research offer a rich field for professional development. Nurses here contribute to groundbreaking care in a supportive and innovative setting.
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Sioux Falls, SD
Average Salary: $123,170
Sioux Falls offers a welcoming environment for nurses at Sanford Health. The city's focus on community and healthcare creates a friendly and supportive work atmosphere. Nurses here enjoy a balanced lifestyle while making a meaningful impact on patient care.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $114,769
Tucson provides a vibrant setting for nurses, with top employers like Banner - University Medical Center. The city's warm climate and strong healthcare institutions make it an attractive place for nursing careers. Nurses here benefit from a dynamic work environment and a supportive community.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $114,431
Albany offers excellent opportunities for nurses at Albany Medical Center. The city's rich healthcare history and commitment to medical excellence create a nurturing work environment. Nurses here can expect to engage in meaningful care while benefiting from a strong professional community.
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Omaha, NE
Average Salary: $113,133
In Omaha, nurses find rewarding work at Nebraska Medicine. The city's focus on healthcare innovation and community support provides a stimulating work environment. Here, nurses can enhance their skills and make a significant impact on patient care in a collaborative setting.
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What are the best companies a Acute Care Nurse can work for?

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Clinical Management Consultants
Average Salary: $126,645
Clinical Management Consultants offers a rewarding career for Acute Care Nurses. They work in various locations across the U.S., including large urban centers. Nurses enjoy a high salary and the chance to specialize in critical care.
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UMass Memorial Health
Average Salary: $115,878
At UMass Memorial Health, Acute Care Nurses find a supportive environment. This company operates in Massachusetts and offers competitive pay. Nurses here focus on top-notch patient care, which is highly valued.
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Genie Healthcare
Average Salary: $114,824
Genie Healthcare places Acute Care Nurses in top hospitals nationwide. They value skilled nurses and offer attractive salaries. Nurses work in diverse settings, gaining valuable experience.
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National Staffing Solutions
Average Salary: $112,064
National Staffing Solutions employs Acute Care Nurses across the U.S. They provide good compensation and opportunities for career growth. Nurses benefit from a variety of assignments in different medical facilities.
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Bassett Healthcare Network
Average Salary: $102,502
Bassett Healthcare Network offers Acute Care Nurses a stable and rewarding career. They operate in New York and New Hampshire. Nurses here enjoy a good salary and the chance to work in a community-focused environment.
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Providence
Average Salary: $100,687
Providence provides Acute Care Nurses with excellent opportunities. They have locations in several western states. Nurses here benefit from a high salary and a focus on holistic patient care.
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OneStaff Medical
Average Salary: $99,561
OneStaff Medical offers Acute Care Nurses competitive pay and diverse work environments. They have locations throughout the U.S. Nurses here find rewarding assignments and the chance to grow professionally.
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Supplemental Health Care
Average Salary: $97,060
Supplemental Health Care hires Acute Care Nurses for various facilities across the country. They offer good salaries and opportunities for advancement. Nurses here work in a supportive and dynamic setting.
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Atrium Health
Average Salary: $92,242
Atrium Health employs Acute Care Nurses in several states. They provide a good salary and focus on patient care. Nurses here enjoy a well-rounded work environment and professional growth.
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UPMC
Average Salary: $86,600
UPMC offers Acute Care Nurses a competitive salary and diverse opportunities. They have locations in Pennsylvania and New York. Nurses here value the focus on quality care and career development.
How to earn more as a Acute Care Nurse?
To earn more as an Acute Care Nurse, one must focus on several key factors that enhance skills and marketability. Specialization can open up higher-paying positions. Acute Care Nurses can specialize in areas like cardiac, neurology, or trauma care. Such expertise often leads to roles with better compensation.
Another factor is the pursuit of advanced certifications. Certifications from recognized bodies like the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) add value. They demonstrate a commitment to high standards and can lead to salary increases. Continuous education and professional development are crucial. Acute Care Nurses should stay updated with the latest practices and technologies. Attending workshops, seminars, and obtaining further degrees can boost earning potential.
Experience and reputation also play a significant role. Nurses who work in high-demand areas or gain a strong reputation for excellence can command higher salaries. Networking within the industry and building professional relationships can lead to better job opportunities. Lastly, location matters. Urban areas or regions with a shortage of healthcare professionals often offer higher wages.
In summary, specialization, advanced certifications, continuous education, experience, and strategic networking can all contribute to higher earnings for Acute Care Nurses.
- Specialization in cardiac, neurology, or trauma care
- Advanced certifications from AACN
- Continuous education and professional development
- Experience and a strong professional reputation
- Location in high-demand areas



