How much does a Nurse Manager make?
A Nurse Manager plays a key role in healthcare settings. They oversee nursing staff and ensure patient care is of the highest standard. The salary for this role can vary based on experience and location. The average yearly salary for a Nurse Manager is around $124,236.
Nurse Managers can expect a range of salaries. At the lower end, some earn around $63,450. In the middle range, salaries can reach about $102,600. At the higher end, experienced Nurse Managers can earn upwards of $193,964 per year. These numbers show how much a Nurse Manager's salary can increase with more experience and qualifications. This role offers good earning potential and stability.
What are the highest paying cities for a Nurse Manager?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $212,967
San Jose offers a thriving environment for healthcare professionals. With major health systems like Stanford Health Care and Kaiser Permanente, one can lead teams effectively. The city values skilled leaders, making it a great place to grow your career.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $200,303
In Vallejo, healthcare leadership roles are highly sought after. Companies such as Kaiser Permanente provide opportunities to manage and innovate. The city's focus on community health makes it a rewarding place to work.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $190,219
San Francisco is a hub for medical excellence. Hospitals like UCSF Health offer dynamic settings for nursing managers. The city's vibrant culture provides a unique backdrop for professional growth.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $188,827
Sacramento offers a supportive environment for healthcare leaders. With institutions like Kaiser Permanente, one can make a significant impact. The city's emphasis on public health creates many opportunities for development.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $188,457
Modesto provides a close-knit community atmosphere for nursing managers. Local health systems like Memorial Medical Center value strong leadership. Working here means being part of a supportive and growing network.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $174,367
San Diego is a prime location for healthcare professionals. With top facilities like Scripps Health, one can lead with confidence. The city's diverse population offers varied challenges and learning experiences.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $169,656
Los Angeles offers a vast array of opportunities for healthcare leaders. Major employers like Cedars-Sinai Medical Center provide a dynamic work environment. The city's diversity enriches the professional experience.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $169,180
Santa Rosa values experienced healthcare managers. Local hospitals such as Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital offer strong support. The community-focused environment makes it a great place to lead and grow.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $166,807
Fresno provides a welcoming environment for nursing leaders. Hospitals like Community Regional Medical Center offer many opportunities. The city's emphasis on health access creates meaningful work for managers.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $145,655
Bend offers a peaceful yet rewarding setting for healthcare leaders. Local health systems like St. Charles Health System provide a supportive environment. The outdoors offer a unique balance to professional responsibilities.
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What are the best companies a Nurse Manager can work for?

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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $206,409
Sutter Health offers Nurse Manager jobs with a focus on quality patient care across Northern California. Their hospitals span from Sacramento to Santa Cruz, providing a range of services to meet community needs. They offer competitive salaries and benefits, along with opportunities for professional growth.
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Stanford Health Care
Average Salary: $188,630
Stanford Health Care provides Nurse Manager roles that emphasize innovation and research. Located in Stanford, California, this academic medical center offers a dynamic work environment. Employees have access to state-of-the-art facilities and a supportive team culture.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $184,682
Kaiser Permanente is one of the largest health care providers in the U.S. Nurse Managers here work in integrated settings across California, Hawaii, and more. The company offers excellent benefits, professional development, and a commitment to quality care.
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UC Davis Health
Average Salary: $179,667
UC Davis Health offers Nurse Manager positions that focus on academic excellence and research. Based in Sacramento, California, the company provides a collaborative work environment. Nurse Managers here have access to cutting-edge technology and a focus on innovation.
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UC San Diego Health
Average Salary: $177,346
UC San Diego Health provides Nurse Manager opportunities with a focus on patient care and innovation. Located in San Diego, California, this health care system combines academic excellence with patient care. The company offers a competitive salary and a variety of benefits.
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PeaceHealth
Average Salary: $155,774
PeaceHealth offers Nurse Manager jobs with a focus on compassionate care. The organization operates in Washington and Oregon, providing a wide range of services. Nurse Managers here work in a supportive environment with a commitment to community health.
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MultiCare Health System
Average Salary: $153,139
MultiCare Health System offers Nurse Manager roles with a focus on patient-centered care. Located in Washington, the company provides a variety of services. Nurse Managers here benefit from a supportive team culture and opportunities for professional growth.
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Northwell Health
Average Salary: $144,442
Northwell Health provides Nurse Manager positions with a strong emphasis on quality care. Based in New York, the company offers a range of services. Nurse Managers here enjoy a competitive salary and a commitment to excellence in patient care.
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Tri-City Medical Center
Average Salary: $137,387
Tri-City Medical Center offers Nurse Manager roles with a focus on community care. Located in Oceanside, California, the hospital provides a range of services. Nurse Managers here benefit from a supportive work environment and a commitment to patient care.
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University Of Washington
Average Salary: $137,175
The University of Washington offers Nurse Manager jobs with a focus on academic excellence and research. Located in Seattle, Washington, the university provides a variety of services. Nurse Managers here benefit from a collaborative work environment and opportunities for professional growth.
How to earn more as a Nurse Manager?
Nurse Managers have a vital role in healthcare settings. Their work ensures smooth operations in their department. To earn more as a Nurse Manager, several factors can make a difference. These factors not only increase earning potential but also enhance job satisfaction.
One key factor is gaining additional certifications. Specialized certifications in areas like project management or quality improvement can set a Nurse Manager apart. These skills show dedication to the role and a commitment to excellence. Another factor is experience. As a Nurse Manager gains more years in the field, they often qualify for higher pay grades. Experience brings a deeper understanding of managing teams and navigating healthcare challenges. Networking within the industry also plays a role. Building relationships with peers and leaders in healthcare can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations helps expand a Nurse Manager's network.
Seeking out leadership roles in larger hospitals or specialized units can also increase earning potential. Larger institutions often offer higher salaries to match the increased responsibility. Lastly, pursuing advanced degrees such as a Master's in Nursing Administration (MNA) can lead to higher pay. Advanced education equips Nurse Managers with the skills needed to take on more complex and rewarding roles.
- Gain additional certifications
- Accumulate experience
- Network within the industry
- Seek leadership roles in larger hospitals
- Pursue advanced degrees



