How much does a Clinical Nurse Educator make?
A Clinical Nurse Educator plays a key role in the healthcare system. They teach new nurses and support experienced ones. They also help create training programs and improve care practices. This job is very important for patient care and nursing education.
Clinical Nurse Educators earn good salaries. The average yearly salary is around $106,852. Salaries can range based on experience and location. Some earn as little as $64,800, while others make more than $202,000 a year. These numbers show how varied the income can be for this role. Many find this career rewarding both financially and in terms of job satisfaction.
What are the highest paying cities for a Clinical Nurse Educator?

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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $172,577
Working in Salinas offers a strong community feel with several healthcare providers. Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System is a leading employer. Nurses can enjoy a balance of professional growth and personal life here.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $163,179
Sacramento is a hub for healthcare jobs with top facilities like Kaiser Permanente. Nurses can thrive in a progressive environment. The city offers a vibrant culture and good schools, making it great for families.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $148,136
San Francisco boasts a dynamic healthcare sector, with UCSF Health and other premier institutions. Nurses can expect innovative practices and a vibrant city life. The cost of living is high, but so are the opportunities.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $146,920
San Diego offers a warm climate and excellent healthcare employers like Scripps Health. The city is known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. It’s an ideal place for those who love nature and the sea.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $143,328
San Jose has a thriving tech industry that extends to healthcare. Companies like Stanford Health Care provide excellent opportunities. The area offers a mix of urban and suburban living, with many parks and recreational areas.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $137,064
Los Angeles has a bustling healthcare scene with major players like Cedars-Sinai. The city is diverse and culturally rich, offering endless entertainment and lifestyle options. It’s a great place for those who love a dynamic urban environment.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $129,493
Seattle offers a mix of healthcare excellence and a vibrant lifestyle. Institutions like Seattle Children’s Hospital provide top-notch opportunities. The city’s coffee culture and love for the outdoors make it a unique place to work and live.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $107,909
Denver's healthcare sector includes prominent employers such as UCHealth. The city is known for its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, offering great outdoor activities. Denver provides a balanced lifestyle with a growing job market.
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Columbia, MO
Average Salary: $106,639
Columbia has a supportive community with healthcare giants like University of Missouri Health Care. The city offers a small-town feel with big-city opportunities. It’s great for those who value education and a close-knit community.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $106,328
Chicago's healthcare industry is robust, with employers like Northwestern Memorial Hospital. The city is known for its rich history and cultural events. It’s an exciting place for those who enjoy a lively urban experience.
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What are the best companies a Clinical Nurse Educator can work for?

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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $193,735
Sutter Health is a not-for-profit network of care providers. They offer rewarding Clinical Nurse Educator jobs in Northern California. The role focuses on providing education to nursing staff and improving patient care.
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MOMENTUM SERVICES, LLC
Average Salary: $117,500
MOMENTUM SERVICES, LLC offers Clinical Nurse Educator roles nationwide. The company focuses on helping clients succeed. They provide a good work-life balance and opportunities for professional growth.
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Syneos Health Commercial Solutions
Average Salary: $109,943
Syneos Health Commercial Solutions is a global provider of clinical trial management and consulting services. They have positions in various locations across the U.S. They focus on training nurses to improve patient outcomes.
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Option Care Health
Average Salary: $107,886
Option Care Health offers Clinical Nurse Educator roles in multiple states. They provide home and alternate care services. The role involves training nurses and supporting patients outside traditional hospital settings.
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University of Maryland Medical System
Average Salary: $104,436
The University of Maryland Medical System offers Clinical Nurse Educator positions in Maryland. They focus on academic and clinical excellence. The role involves teaching and supporting nurses to deliver high-quality care.
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CommonSpirit Health
Average Salary: $90,147
CommonSpirit Health provides Clinical Nurse Educator jobs in several states. They focus on spiritual and community care. The role involves training nurses to provide compassionate and high-quality care.
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IQVIA
Average Salary: $78,179
IQVIA offers Clinical Nurse Educator roles in various locations. They specialize in data analytics and medical research. The role involves educating nurses on the latest research and best practices.
How to earn more as a Clinical Nurse Educator?
In the field of nursing, Clinical Nurse Educators (CNE) play a pivotal role in shaping the skills of the next generation of nurses. Those who are looking to advance their career and increase their salary have several avenues to consider. By enhancing their skills and taking specific actions, CNEs can position themselves for greater financial rewards.
First, expanding professional qualifications can lead to higher earning potential. Advanced degrees such as a Master’s or Doctorate in Nursing Education can open up more opportunities. Certifications in specialized areas can also be valuable. These qualifications often lead to higher-paying positions and greater responsibilities.
- Advanced Degrees: Earning a Master’s or Doctorate in Nursing Education can significantly boost your salary.
- Specialized Certifications: Certifications in areas like nurse education or informatics can increase job prospects and pay.
- Experience: Gaining more years of experience in clinical settings can lead to higher-paying roles.
- Location: Working in areas with a higher cost of living or greater demand for nurses can mean higher pay.
- Leadership Roles: Taking on roles such as a Nurse Manager or Director of Education can increase your salary.



