How much does a Director of Nursing make?
A Director of Nursing plays a key role in managing healthcare facilities. This position often comes with a rewarding salary. On average, a Director of Nursing earns about $102,906 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the type of healthcare facility. Many Directors of Nursing find their roles both challenging and fulfilling.
The salary for a Director of Nursing can range widely. The lowest 10% earn around $59,950, while the top 10% earn over $165,000. Most Directors of Nursing fall somewhere in the middle, with salaries ranging from $79,050 to $136,350. This range shows that with experience and dedication, there is potential for significant growth. Directors of Nursing who work in larger cities or specialized hospitals often see higher salaries.
What are the highest paying cities for a Director of Nursing?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $149,925
San Francisco offers a dynamic environment for healthcare leaders. With top-tier hospitals like UCSF Health, professionals can make a significant impact. The city's diverse population adds unique challenges and rewards.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $143,746
Salinas provides a close-knit community feel with excellent healthcare opportunities. Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System is a leading employer. Working here means contributing to a tight-knit, supportive environment.
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Chico, CA
Average Salary: $142,181
Chico is known for its welcoming atmosphere and strong community spirit. Enloe Medical Center offers a supportive setting for growth. Professionals here enjoy a balanced lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $134,386
San Diego boasts a vibrant healthcare sector with institutions like Scripps Health. The city's mild climate and beautiful beaches make it an attractive place to live and work. Opportunities for professional development are abundant.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $134,237
Sacramento offers a blend of urban and suburban living. Kaiser Permanente is a major employer in the area. Professionals here can enjoy a stable job market with plenty of growth opportunities.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $133,523
Seattle is a hub for healthcare innovation with renowned facilities like Seattle Children's Hospital. The city's progressive environment and outdoor lifestyle attract many professionals. Opportunities for advancement are plentiful.
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New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $132,908
New Haven provides a rich cultural experience with top healthcare institutions like Yale New Haven Hospital. The city's academic environment offers unique learning opportunities. Professionals here benefit from a strong community focus.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $132,721
Santa Rosa offers a relaxed lifestyle with excellent healthcare facilities like Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital. The city's wine country setting provides a unique blend of work and leisure. Opportunities for professional growth are supported by a strong local economy.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $132,226
San Jose is a tech-savvy city with leading healthcare providers like Stanford Health Care. The area's innovative spirit and vibrant culture make it an exciting place to work. Professionals here enjoy a dynamic job market with many opportunities.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $131,755
Riverside offers a growing job market with institutions like Riverside University Health System. The city's warm climate and family-friendly environment make it an attractive place to live. Opportunities for career advancement are supported by a strong local economy.
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What are the best companies a Director of Nursing can work for?

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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $173,188
Kaiser Permanente offers rewarding Director of Nursing roles. They operate in multiple states, including California, Colorado, and Washington. Their focus on quality care makes it a top choice for nursing professionals.
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Aya Healthcare
Average Salary: $170,891
Aya Healthcare provides excellent opportunities for Director of Nursing positions. They work across the United States, offering diverse locations and experiences. Aya values its nursing staff and offers competitive salaries.
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ProHealth Staffing, Inc
Average Salary: $170,000
ProHealth Staffing, Inc. is known for its high-paying Director of Nursing jobs. They operate nationwide, with a strong presence in New York, California, and Texas. Their commitment to nursing excellence is evident in their salary offerings.
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Genie Healthcare
Average Salary: $160,470
Genie Healthcare offers attractive salaries for Director of Nursing roles. They have locations in several states, including New York, California, and Florida. Their focus on patient care makes it a great place for nursing leaders.
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Clover Health Services
Average Salary: $160,140
Clover Health Services provides competitive salaries for Director of Nursing positions. They operate in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Florida. Their dedication to healthcare innovation supports their nursing staff well.
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Telecare Corporation
Average Salary: $159,313
Telecare Corporation offers rewarding Director of Nursing roles. They serve multiple states, including California, Nevada, and New York. Their focus on mental health care provides a unique environment for nursing professionals.
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Montefiore Medical
Average Salary: $154,485
Montefiore Medical offers attractive salaries for Director of Nursing positions. They operate in New York and have a strong reputation for quality care. Their commitment to patient well-being is evident in their salary offerings.
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Medstaff Group
Average Salary: $153,750
Medstaff Group provides competitive salaries for Director of Nursing roles. They work across several states, including California, Texas, and Florida. Their focus on healthcare staffing makes them a reliable choice for nursing leaders.
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Knights Management
Average Salary: $150,545
Knights Management offers rewarding Director of Nursing positions. They operate in multiple states, including New York, California, and Florida. Their dedication to quality care supports their nursing staff well.
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Rock Medical Group
Average Salary: $149,502
Rock Medical Group provides competitive salaries for Director of Nursing roles. They serve several states, including California, Texas, and Florida. Their focus on patient care makes it a great place for nursing professionals.
How to earn more as a Director of Nursing?
A Director of Nursing plays a crucial role in healthcare settings. They oversee nursing staff and ensure high-quality care. Increasing earnings in this role involves several key strategies. Directors can enhance their earning potential through various means.
First, gaining advanced certifications can lead to higher pay. Certifications in specialized areas like informatics or administration can open up more opportunities. Second, pursuing a master's degree in nursing or a related field can boost earning potential. Advanced degrees often come with higher salary expectations. Third, taking on additional responsibilities can increase income. This includes leading large teams or managing multiple departments. Fourth, seeking positions in high-demand areas can lead to higher pay. Urban areas or regions with a shortage of healthcare professionals often offer better salaries. Lastly, negotiating effectively during job interviews can result in higher earnings. Understanding the market rate and advocating for fair compensation is important.
Directors of Nursing can increase their earnings by focusing on these factors. Advanced education, specialized certifications, and taking on more responsibilities can lead to higher salaries. Seeking positions in high-demand areas and negotiating effectively can also make a difference.
- Gain advanced certifications.
- Pursue a master's degree in nursing or related field.
- Take on additional responsibilities.
- Seek positions in high-demand areas.
- Negotiate effectively during job interviews.