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How much does a Director of Nursing make?

The average salary for a Director of Nursing is $104,252 per year in the US.

A Director of Nursing plays a key role in healthcare management. They oversee nursing staff and ensure high-quality patient care. This important job comes with a rewarding salary. The average yearly salary for a Director of Nursing is around $104,252. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of facility.

The salary range for Directors of Nursing can be quite broad. Some earn as little as $60,000 a year, while others make over $170,000. Most Directors of Nursing fall somewhere in the middle. For example, about 18% of Directors earn between $90,000 and $100,000. This range shows that there are many opportunities for growth and advancement in this field. With the right skills and experience, a Director of Nursing can earn a very competitive salary.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Director of Nursing?

Director of Nursing roles offer competitive salaries, with some cities standing out. San Francisco, CA, leads the pack with an average salary of $158,604. Salinas, CA, follows closely with an average of $147,598. These figures highlight the financial rewards available in these locations for nursing professionals. Other notable cities include Chico, CA, and New Haven, CT, where Directors of Nursing can expect salaries of $142,997 and $138,582, respectively. These cities provide attractive opportunities for those seeking both professional growth and financial compensation.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Director of Nursing jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $158,604 and Riverside, CA with the lowest at $131,197.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $158,604
    In San Francisco, nursing leaders manage healthcare teams in top-tier hospitals like UCSF Health. The city's diverse population offers unique challenges and learning opportunities. Competitive salaries and a strong healthcare network make it an attractive place for nursing directors.
    Find Director of Nursing jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $147,598
    Salinas offers a close-knit community feel with excellent healthcare facilities. Nursing directors here focus on providing quality care in a supportive environment. The city's growing healthcare sector provides many chances for professional growth.
    Find Director of Nursing jobs in Salinas, CA


  3. Chico, CA
    Average Salary: $142,997
    Chico provides a balanced lifestyle with a smaller city charm. Nursing directors work in a community-focused setting, ensuring high standards of patient care. The area's healthcare facilities offer a chance to make a real difference in people's lives.
    Find Director of Nursing jobs in Chico, CA


  4. New Haven, CT
    Average Salary: $138,582
    New Haven is home to renowned healthcare institutions like Yale New Haven Hospital. Nursing directors here lead innovative teams and contribute to cutting-edge medical research. The city's rich history and vibrant culture add to the professional experience.
    Find Director of Nursing jobs in New Haven, CT


  5. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $136,282
    San Diego offers a dynamic healthcare environment with leading facilities such as Scripps Health. Nursing directors enjoy a mild climate and beautiful surroundings. The city's diverse healthcare needs provide ample opportunities for leadership and development.
    Find Director of Nursing jobs in San Diego, CA


  6. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $135,073
    Seattle's healthcare sector is robust, with major players like Seattle Children's Hospital. Nursing directors here benefit from a progressive healthcare culture and a strong community focus. The city's tech-savvy environment brings new innovations to patient care.
    Find Director of Nursing jobs in Seattle, WA


  7. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $134,767
    Sacramento provides a stable and growing healthcare market. Nursing directors work in a supportive community with institutions like UC Davis Health. The city's central location offers easy access to various healthcare resources and professional networks.
    Find Director of Nursing jobs in Sacramento, CA


  8. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $133,302
    Santa Rosa offers a blend of urban and rural living with excellent healthcare facilities. Nursing directors here focus on delivering compassionate care in a picturesque setting. The area's strong community ties enhance the professional experience.
    Find Director of Nursing jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  9. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $131,530
    San Jose is a hub for healthcare innovation with major employers like Stanford Health Care. Nursing directors enjoy a dynamic work environment and access to cutting-edge medical technologies. The city's diverse population presents unique challenges and learning opportunities.
    Find Director of Nursing jobs in San Jose, CA


  10. Riverside, CA
    Average Salary: $131,197
    Riverside provides a growing healthcare market with institutions like Riverside University Health System. Nursing directors here focus on community health and patient care. The city's expanding healthcare sector offers many chances for professional growth.
    Find Director of Nursing jobs in Riverside, CA

What are the best companies a Director of Nursing can work for?

Aya Healthcare offers one of the highest salaries for Director of Nursing positions, averaging $170,950 annually. ProHealth Staffing, Inc. and Telecare Corporation also provide competitive salaries, with averages around $170,000 and $160,000, respectively. These companies value their nursing directors and offer attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Director of Nursing jobs, highlighting Aya Healthcare with the highest at $170,950 and Seagate Rehabilitation and Nursing Center with the lowest at $145,179.
  1. Aya Healthcare
    Average Salary: $170,950
    Aya Healthcare offers Director of Nursing jobs with a strong focus on patient care. They operate in various locations across the United States, providing diverse experiences for nursing professionals.


  2. ProHealth Staffing, Inc
    Average Salary: $170,000
    ProHealth Staffing, Inc provides top-tier Director of Nursing positions. They serve multiple states and offer a supportive environment for nursing leaders to thrive.


  3. Telecare Corporation
    Average Salary: $160,143
    Telecare Corporation is known for its comprehensive healthcare services. They offer Director of Nursing roles in various locations, emphasizing quality care and professional development.


  4. Genie Healthcare
    Average Salary: $153,847
    Genie Healthcare provides rewarding Director of Nursing positions. They operate in several states and focus on creating a positive work environment for nursing leaders.


  5. CommonSpirit Health
    Average Salary: $150,213
    CommonSpirit Health offers Director of Nursing jobs with a commitment to excellence in healthcare. They serve multiple locations, providing a range of opportunities for nursing professionals.


  6. CareerStaff Unlimited
    Average Salary: $149,747
    CareerStaff Unlimited provides Director of Nursing positions with a focus on career growth and development. They operate in various locations, offering a supportive work environment.


  7. Medstaff Group
    Average Salary: $149,107
    Medstaff Group offers Director of Nursing roles with a strong emphasis on patient care. They serve multiple states and provide a collaborative work environment for nursing leaders.


  8. Montefiore Medical
    Average Salary: $148,114
    Montefiore Medical provides Director of Nursing positions with a commitment to excellence in healthcare. They operate in several locations, offering a supportive work environment.


  9. TEEMA
    Average Salary: $147,263
    TEEMA offers Director of Nursing jobs with a focus on quality care and professional development. They serve multiple states and provide a range of opportunities for nursing leaders.


  10. Seagate Rehabilitation and Nursing Center
    Average Salary: $145,179
    Seagate Rehabilitation and Nursing Center provides Director of Nursing positions with a strong emphasis on patient care. They operate in several locations, offering a supportive work environment.

How to earn more as a Director of Nursing?

A Director of Nursing plays a crucial role in managing healthcare teams and ensuring quality patient care. To earn more in this position, consider these key factors. Gaining advanced certifications can boost earning potential. For example, a Certified Nurse Executive (CNE) credential often leads to higher salaries. Experience matters significantly. Directors with more years in leadership roles typically earn more. Networking with other professionals can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations helps build connections. Specialization in a high-demand area, such as oncology or critical care, can also increase earning potential. Lastly, pursuing a Master’s degree in Nursing Administration or a related field can lead to higher-paying positions.

Directors who take on additional responsibilities, such as leading large projects or implementing new systems, often find themselves in higher salary brackets. Continuous education and professional development show commitment and can lead to promotions. Staying informed about industry trends and advancements ensures a Director of Nursing remains competitive in the job market. By focusing on these factors, a Director of Nursing can enhance their career prospects and increase their earnings.

Consider these factors to advance your career and increase your earnings as a Director of Nursing:

  1. Obtain advanced certifications.
  2. Gain more experience in leadership roles.
  3. Network with other healthcare professionals.
  4. Specialize in high-demand areas.
  5. Pursue higher education degrees.

Currently 2,685 Director of Nursing job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Director of Nursing in the US?

Learn what a Director of Nursing does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Director of Nursing today.
Position
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Director of Nursing
2,685 Job Openings