How much does a Acute Care Nurse make?
Acute Care Nurses play a crucial role in hospital settings, taking care of patients who need urgent attention. These professionals handle complex medical situations and work long hours. They deserve fair compensation for their hard work. The average yearly salary for an Acute Care Nurse is $100,194. This figure varies based on experience and location.
The salary range for Acute Care Nurses can vary significantly. At the lower end, new nurses earn around $48,650 a year. As experience grows, so does the salary. More experienced nurses can earn up to $151,368 a year. This wide range reflects the range of responsibilities and the critical role these nurses play in patient care. Considering these numbers can help job seekers understand what to expect in their career path.
What are the highest paying cities for a Acute Care Nurse?

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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $162,336
In Sacramento, a healthcare professional can find rewarding work in bustling hospitals like Kaiser Permanente. The city offers a supportive environment for nurses to grow. The salary is competitive, and the work is fulfilling.
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Dayton, OH
Average Salary: $146,908
Dayton provides a nurturing setting for nurses at renowned institutions such as Kettering Health. Working here means being part of a dedicated team. Nurses enjoy a good work-life balance and a strong community spirit.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $135,897
Portland is a vibrant city for healthcare workers. Nurses here benefit from a progressive work culture at places like Providence Health & Services. The city's commitment to healthcare excellence makes it a great place to work.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $129,188
Seattle offers a dynamic environment for nurses at major healthcare providers like Swedish Medical Center. The city's healthcare sector is growing, offering many opportunities for professional development. Nurses here enjoy a high standard of living.
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Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $126,740
Rochester is home to top medical facilities such as Mayo Clinic. Working here means access to advanced medical technology and a collaborative work environment. The city's strong healthcare focus ensures a rewarding career.
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Sioux Falls, SD
Average Salary: $122,614
In Sioux Falls, nurses find great opportunities at Avera Health. The city values healthcare professionals, providing a supportive community. The work environment is friendly, and the cost of living is affordable.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $114,584
Albany offers excellent healthcare positions at institutions like St. Peter’s Health Partners. Nurses here enjoy a rich work culture and a strong sense of community. The city's healthcare needs provide a steady flow of opportunities.
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New Orleans, LA
Average Salary: $113,658
New Orleans is a vibrant city with great healthcare options at Ochsner Health. Working here means being part of a lively community. Nurses can expect a rewarding experience with a unique cultural backdrop.
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Omaha, NE
Average Salary: $111,663
Omaha offers rewarding opportunities for nurses at top facilities like Nebraska Medicine. The city provides a supportive environment with a strong healthcare focus. Nurses here enjoy a good quality of life.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $111,365
Tucson is a great place for healthcare workers, with top employers like Banner University Medical Center. The city's growing healthcare sector offers many opportunities for career growth. Nurses can enjoy a pleasant climate and a welcoming community.
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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: $121,197
Clinical Management Consultants (CMC) offers many Acute Care Nurse positions. They operate nationwide, with offices in several states including California, New York, and Texas. At CMC, Acute Care Nurses enjoy competitive salaries and a range of benefits.
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Genie Healthcare
Average Salary: $115,593
Genie Healthcare provides numerous Acute Care Nurse jobs. They work with healthcare facilities across the country, including in New York, Florida, and California. This company values its nurses, providing excellent compensation packages and opportunities for professional growth.
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UMass Memorial Health
Average Salary: $114,959
UMass Memorial Health is a top employer for Acute Care Nurses. They have several locations in Massachusetts. Nurses at UMass Memorial Health enjoy a high average salary and a supportive work environment.
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Bassett Healthcare Network
Average Salary: $101,387
Bassett Healthcare Network offers various Acute Care Nurse jobs. They serve patients in New York and New Hampshire. Nurses at Bassett benefit from a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.
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OneStaff Medical
Average Salary: $98,916
OneStaff Medical provides Acute Care Nurse positions across the U.S. They have offices in major cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago. This company offers good pay and flexible work options.
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Supplemental Health Care
Average Salary: $95,550
Supplemental Health Care offers many Acute Care Nurse jobs nationwide. They are present in states such as California, Texas, and Florida. This company provides excellent salaries and strong support for its nurses.
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Emory Healthcare
Average Salary: $94,655
Emory Healthcare provides Acute Care Nurse positions primarily in Georgia. They are known for their high standards and excellent compensation packages for their nursing staff.
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Atrium Health
Average Salary: $91,971
Atrium Health offers many Acute Care Nurse jobs in North Carolina and South Carolina. They provide competitive salaries and a supportive work environment for their nursing staff.
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Banner Health
Average Salary: $85,230
Banner Health provides Acute Care Nurse positions in states like Arizona, Colorado, and Wyoming. Nurses here enjoy a good salary and a wide range of benefits.
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UPMC
Average Salary: $85,034
UPMC offers Acute Care Nurse jobs in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and New York. This company is known for its high standards and fair compensation for its nursing staff.
How to earn more as a Acute Care Nurse?
Acute Care Nurses provide critical care in busy hospital settings. They must be skilled and dedicated. Earning more as an Acute Care Nurse requires dedication and continuous learning. This profession offers several paths to increase earnings.
First, gaining more experience in specialized areas can lead to higher pay. Experience in high-demand areas like trauma or intensive care boosts earning potential. Additionally, obtaining certifications in critical care can enhance job opportunities and salary. Certifications such as CCRN (Critical Care Registered Nurse) are highly valued in the industry. Another way to increase income is by advancing education. Earning a master's degree in nursing or a related field can open doors to higher-paying roles. Geographical location also plays a role. Urban areas or regions with a shortage of nurses typically offer higher wages. Lastly, considering roles in management or education can lead to significant salary increases. These roles often come with benefits and higher pay scales.
In conclusion, Acute Care Nurses have multiple avenues to increase their earnings. These include gaining experience, earning certifications, advancing education, considering location, and exploring management or teaching roles. With dedication and strategic career choices, higher earnings are achievable.
Below are key factors to consider:
- Gain experience in specialized areas
- Obtain certifications like CCRN
- Advance education with a master's degree
- Consider location with higher pay scales
- Explore management or teaching roles



