How much does a Graduate Nurse make?
Graduate nurses often start their careers with a strong foundation in patient care. They can expect to earn an average yearly salary of around $90,000. This figure can vary depending on several factors, including location, experience, and the type of healthcare facility. For instance, those working in metropolitan areas or specialized hospitals may see higher earnings.
The salary range for graduate nurses can be quite broad. The lowest 10% earn about $39,000 annually, while the top 10% can make over $145,000. This range highlights the potential for growth and advancement in the nursing field. As graduate nurses gain more experience and possibly additional certifications, their earning potential can increase significantly. This career path offers both stability and opportunities for professional development.
What are the highest paying cities for a Graduate Nurse?

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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $148,009
Sacramento offers a vibrant healthcare environment. Nurses work in top facilities like UC Davis Medical Center. The city's diverse population provides rich learning experiences.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $141,592
Stockton is a growing city with many healthcare opportunities. Nurses can find work at places like St. Joseph's Medical Center. The community is welcoming and supportive.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $123,005
Riverside has a strong healthcare sector. Nurses can work at renowned institutions like Riverside University Health System. The city offers a good work-life balance.
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Peoria, IL
Average Salary: $120,942
Peoria is known for its excellent healthcare facilities. Nurses can find jobs at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center. The city provides a supportive environment for new nurses.
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Fargo, ND
Average Salary: $117,464
Fargo offers a friendly community and good healthcare opportunities. Nurses can work at Sanford Health. The city is known for its quality of life and safety.
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Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $114,734
Rochester is a hub for healthcare innovation. Nurses can work at the Mayo Clinic. The city offers many professional development opportunities.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $112,852
Indianapolis is a growing city with many healthcare options. Nurses can work at Indiana University Health. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $112,827
Des Moines offers a stable healthcare environment. Nurses can find jobs at MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center. The city is known for its friendly people.
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Madison, WI
Average Salary: $112,512
Madison is a great place for healthcare professionals. Nurses can work at UW Health. The city offers a high quality of life and many outdoor activities.
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Yuma, AZ
Average Salary: $112,128
Yuma offers a warm climate and a growing healthcare sector. Nurses can work at Yuma Regional Medical Center. The city is known for its friendly community.
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What are the best companies a Graduate Nurse can work for?

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Seven Healthcare
Average Salary: $136,855
Seven Healthcare offers Graduate Nurse jobs with a focus on providing top-notch patient care. They operate in various locations across the United States, ensuring diverse experiences for their nurses.
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Riverside Community Hospital
Average Salary: $128,100
Riverside Community Hospital provides excellent opportunities for Graduate Nurses. They have facilities in California and offer a supportive environment for new nurses to grow.
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Winston Resources
Average Salary: $121,290
Winston Resources is known for its competitive salaries for Graduate Nurses. They operate in multiple states and offer various specialties for nurses to explore.
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NTG (Nationwide Therapy)
Average Salary: $116,600
NTG offers rewarding Graduate Nurse positions with a focus on patient-centered care. They have locations across the country, providing diverse experiences.
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Health Carousel
Average Salary: $116,568
Health Carousel provides Graduate Nurses with excellent career opportunities. They operate in many states and offer a supportive and dynamic work environment.
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Epsilon Solutions
Average Salary: $115,467
Epsilon Solutions offers Graduate Nurse jobs with a focus on professional growth. They have facilities in various locations, providing a range of experiences.
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Clover Health Services
Average Salary: $110,032
Clover Health Services provides Graduate Nurses with competitive salaries and a supportive work environment. They operate in multiple states, offering diverse opportunities.
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Titan Medical (Nebraska)
Average Salary: $102,587
Titan Medical offers Graduate Nurse positions with a focus on quality patient care. They operate in Nebraska, providing a stable and supportive environment for new nurses.
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VHC Health
Average Salary: $102,130
VHC Health provides Graduate Nurses with excellent career opportunities. They have facilities in Virginia and offer a supportive and dynamic work environment.
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Ascension
Average Salary: $97,442
Ascension offers Graduate Nurse jobs with a focus on compassionate care. They operate in many states and provide a supportive environment for new nurses.
How to earn more as a Graduate Nurse?
Graduate nurses can take several steps to increase their earnings. By focusing on these areas, they can enhance their skills and marketability. This leads to better job opportunities and higher pay.
First, gaining experience in different areas of nursing can open up more job opportunities. Specializations such as pediatrics, oncology, or critical care often pay more. Second, obtaining additional certifications can boost a nurse's resume. Certifications in areas like emergency nursing or informatics can lead to higher-paying positions. Third, pursuing advanced degrees, such as a Master’s in Nursing, can increase earning potential. Many advanced roles come with higher salaries. Fourth, seeking positions in high-demand areas or regions can result in better pay. Urban areas or places with a shortage of nurses often offer higher wages. Lastly, networking with other professionals can lead to job openings. Attending conferences and joining professional groups can connect nurses with better opportunities.
Graduate nurses can use these strategies to improve their earnings. By focusing on experience, certifications, education, location, and networking, they can find better-paying jobs.
- Gain experience in different nursing areas.
- Obtain additional certifications.
- Pursue advanced degrees.
- Seek positions in high-demand areas.
- Network with other professionals.