How much does a Director of Nursing make?
A Director of Nursing plays a key role in healthcare settings. They oversee nursing staff and ensure high-quality patient care. This important job comes with a rewarding salary. On average, a Director of Nursing earns about $103,832 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the type of healthcare facility.
The salary range for Directors of Nursing can be quite broad. Some earn as little as $59,850, while others make over $170,000. Most Directors fall between $89,891 and $119,932 annually. This range shows that with more experience and skills, the potential for higher earnings increases. Directors in larger cities or specialized hospitals often see higher salaries due to the demand and cost of living.
What are the highest paying cities for a Director of Nursing?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $155,411
In San Francisco, nursing leaders manage top-tier healthcare facilities. They work with renowned organizations like UCSF Health and Kaiser Permanente. The city offers a dynamic environment for professional growth.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $147,162
Salinas provides a community-focused setting for nursing directors. They lead at facilities like Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System. The city values teamwork and patient care.
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Chico, CA
Average Salary: $142,208
Chico offers a smaller, close-knit community for nursing leaders. They oversee healthcare at Enloe Medical Center. The area emphasizes quality care and professional development.
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New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $140,010
New Haven is a hub for healthcare innovation. Nursing directors work with Yale New Haven Health. The city supports a culture of research and advanced medical practices.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $136,492
San Diego provides a vibrant environment for nursing leaders. They manage at institutions like Scripps Health. The city offers a mix of urban and coastal living.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $134,719
Sacramento offers a balanced setting for healthcare leadership. Nursing directors work with Kaiser Permanente and UC Davis Health. The city values community health and professional growth.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $134,570
Seattle, known for its tech and healthcare sectors, offers exciting opportunities. Nursing directors lead at organizations like Seattle Children's Hospital. The city offers a progressive work environment.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $133,528
Santa Rosa provides a supportive environment for nursing leaders. They work with Sutter Health. The city values quality care and community involvement.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $133,154
San Jose offers a dynamic setting for healthcare leaders. They manage at facilities like Stanford Health Care. The city supports innovation and professional development.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $131,459
Riverside offers a growing community for nursing directors. They lead at Riverside University Health System. The city values teamwork and patient-centered care.
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What are the best companies a Director of Nursing can work for?

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Aya Healthcare
Average Salary: $170,891
Aya Healthcare offers Director of Nursing jobs with a strong focus on career growth. They operate in many states across the U.S. Aya Healthcare provides excellent benefits and a supportive work environment.
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ProHealth Staffing, Inc
Average Salary: $170,000
ProHealth Staffing, Inc. is known for its competitive salaries and diverse nursing opportunities. They work with healthcare facilities nationwide, offering a variety of locations for Directors of Nursing.
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Telecare Corporation
Average Salary: $160,954
Telecare Corporation provides rewarding Director of Nursing roles with a focus on mental health and community care. They operate in California, offering a chance to make a significant impact in local communities.
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Genie Healthcare
Average Salary: $152,588
Genie Healthcare offers attractive salaries for Director of Nursing positions. They work with healthcare facilities across the U.S., providing opportunities in various settings.
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Medstaff Group
Average Salary: $151,719
Medstaff Group provides excellent career opportunities for Directors of Nursing. They operate in multiple states, offering a range of healthcare environments to work in.
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Montefiore Medical
Average Salary: $150,526
Montefiore Medical offers rewarding Director of Nursing jobs with a focus on patient care. They operate in the Bronx, New York, providing a chance to work in a renowned medical center.
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CommonSpirit Health
Average Salary: $149,993
CommonSpirit Health provides competitive salaries for Director of Nursing roles. They operate across several states, offering a variety of healthcare settings.
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CareerStaff Unlimited
Average Salary: $148,044
CareerStaff Unlimited offers attractive Director of Nursing positions with a focus on professional development. They work with healthcare facilities nationwide, providing diverse opportunities.
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TEEMA
Average Salary: $145,911
TEEMA provides rewarding Director of Nursing jobs with a focus on quality care. They operate in multiple states, offering a variety of healthcare environments.
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Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Average Salary: $143,920
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers competitive Director of Nursing positions. They operate in various state-run healthcare facilities, providing opportunities to make a difference in public health.
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 can lead to greater job satisfaction and career advancement. Several factors can help a Director of Nursing earn more.
First, gaining advanced certifications can boost earning potential. Certifications like the Certified Nurse Executive (CNE) or Nurse Executive Advanced (NEA-BC) show expertise. These credentials can lead to higher-paying positions. Second, pursuing a Master’s degree in Nursing Administration or a related field can open doors to more lucrative roles. Education often leads to better job opportunities. Third, gaining experience in different healthcare settings can make a Director of Nursing more versatile. Experience in various environments can increase value to employers. Fourth, developing strong leadership skills can lead to higher earnings. Effective leaders often receive higher salaries. Finally, networking within the industry can lead to better job offers. Building relationships with other professionals can uncover higher-paying opportunities.
Consider these factors to increase earnings as a Director of Nursing. Advanced certifications, higher education, diverse experience, strong leadership, and networking can all play a role. These steps can lead to a more rewarding career.
- Gain advanced certifications
- Pursue a Master’s degree
- Gain diverse experience
- Develop strong leadership skills
- Network within the industry



