How much does a Public Health Nurse make?
Public Health Nurses often find themselves at the intersection of healthcare and community service. They play a crucial role in promoting health and preventing disease within communities. Their dedication can lead to a rewarding career, both emotionally and financially.
According to recent salary data, the average yearly salary for Public Health Nurses stands at $85,014. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific setting of their work. For example, those in urban areas might earn slightly more than those in rural settings. Additionally, nurses with advanced degrees or certifications often see higher salaries. The data shows that the earnings can range from around $46,000 for entry-level positions to over $200,000 for the most experienced professionals.
Here’s a quick look at how salaries break down:
- The first 10% earn around $46,189 per year.
- The next 10% make between $60,172 and $74,154 annually.
- Those in the middle 20% earn from $74,154 to $88,137 yearly.
- The upper 10% take home $130,086 to $186,017 per year.
- And the top 1% can earn over $200,000 annually.
What are the highest paying cities for a Public Health Nurse?

-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $159,292
San Francisco offers a dynamic environment for healthcare professionals. With numerous health organizations, including UCSF Health, nurses find ample opportunities for growth and specialization. The city's commitment to public health ensures a rewarding career.
Find Public Health Nurse jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $137,840
In Santa Rosa, public health nursing combines community care with professional development. Local organizations such as Kaiser Permanente provide a supportive work environment. Nurses play a key role in health education and preventive care here.
Find Public Health Nurse jobs in Santa Rosa, CA
-
Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $124,946
Bakersfield provides a diverse landscape for public health nurses. The city's focus on community health initiatives creates a fulfilling work environment. Opportunities with providers like Adventist Health support career advancement.
Find Public Health Nurse jobs in Bakersfield, CA
-
Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $120,547
Stockton offers a mix of urban and rural healthcare opportunities. Public health nurses here work closely with community health centers to promote wellness. The city's dedication to public health makes it a great place for dedicated professionals.
Find Public Health Nurse jobs in Stockton, CA
-
Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $116,515
Sacramento's public health sector is vibrant and growing. Nurses here often collaborate with state health departments and non-profits. The city's focus on innovative health programs provides a dynamic work setting.
Find Public Health Nurse jobs in Sacramento, CA
-
Gainesville, FL
Average Salary: $113,876
Gainesville offers a unique environment for health care workers. The city's strong emphasis on community health initiatives makes it an excellent place for nursing. Local institutions such as UF Health provide robust support and resources.
Find Public Health Nurse jobs in Gainesville, FL
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $112,768
Boston's healthcare sector is world-renowned. Public health nurses here find themselves at the forefront of medical advancements. With institutions like Massachusetts General Hospital, the city offers numerous opportunities for career growth.
Find Public Health Nurse jobs in Boston, MA
-
Portland, OR
Average Salary: $110,716
Portland is a city that values public health. Nurses here often engage in community outreach and education. The city's progressive health policies and supportive environment foster professional growth.
Find Public Health Nurse jobs in Portland, OR
-
Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $108,956
Modesto offers a welcoming environment for public health nurses. The city's focus on family and community health creates a fulfilling work atmosphere. Opportunities with providers like Kaiser Permanente support professional development.
Find Public Health Nurse jobs in Modesto, CA
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $107,489
Los Angeles provides a diverse and dynamic setting for public health nursing. The city's extensive healthcare network offers numerous opportunities for growth. Nurses here often collaborate on large-scale public health initiatives.
Find Public Health Nurse jobs in Los Angeles, CA
What are the best companies a Public Health Nurse can work for?

-
Advantmed
Average Salary: $186,172
Advantmed provides top-tier healthcare services. This company offers rewarding careers in Public Health Nursing. Locations include Boston, MA, and New York, NY.
-
Constant Care Health Services
Average Salary: $180,000
Constant Care Health Services is known for its excellent patient care. Public Health Nurses play a key role in their teams. They operate in several states, including California and Texas.
-
County of Sonoma (CA)
Average Salary: $144,278
The County of Sonoma offers Public Health Nurse positions with a competitive salary. Nurses here focus on community health services. They serve the people of Sonoma County, California.
-
Molina Healthcare
Average Salary: $136,351
Molina Healthcare is a leading health provider. They value Public Health Nurses who deliver essential services. They operate across various states, including Washington and Ohio.
-
The IMA Group
Average Salary: $131,323
The IMA Group offers diverse healthcare opportunities. Public Health Nurses here focus on preventative care. They serve clients in multiple states, including Florida and Michigan.
-
Solano County
Average Salary: $127,152
Solano County provides vital public health services. Public Health Nurses work to improve community health. They operate in Solano County, California.
-
Option Care Health
Average Salary: $125,947
Option Care Health values their Public Health Nurses. Nurses here focus on home-based care. They serve patients in several states, including Pennsylvania and Illinois.
-
ArchCare
Average Salary: $116,144
ArchCare offers meaningful Public Health Nurse roles. Nurses here focus on community health. They operate in New York City and surrounding areas.
-
Able Health Care Service
Average Salary: $110,000
Able Health Care Service provides rewarding Public Health Nurse jobs. Nurses here focus on patient care. They operate in several states, including Arizona and Colorado.
-
Fairfax County Government
Average Salary: $104,604
Fairfax County Government offers stable Public Health Nurse positions. Nurses here focus on public health initiatives. They serve residents in Fairfax County, Virginia.
How to earn more as a Public Health Nurse?
Becoming a Public Health Nurse offers many opportunities to grow professionally and enhance earnings. By focusing on specific strategies, a Public Health Nurse can maximize their salary potential. Investing in education and certifications can lead to higher-paying positions. For example, obtaining a Master’s degree or a specialization in a high-demand area can significantly boost salary. Similarly, earning additional certifications in niche fields such as epidemiology or community health education can make a candidate more attractive to employers.
Experience and location also play critical roles in determining salary. Public Health Nurses with more years of experience can command higher wages. Working in areas with a high demand for healthcare services, such as urban centers or underserved regions, often results in higher pay. Networking and building professional relationships can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Actively participating in professional organizations and attending conferences can lead to new job prospects and salary increases. Finally, pursuing leadership roles, such as a public health manager or director, can also lead to a substantial increase in earnings.
Here are five factors to consider:
- Obtain advanced degrees and certifications
- Gain experience and specialize in high-demand areas
- Choose high-demand locations for employment
- Network within the profession
- Pursue leadership positions



