How much does a Public Health Nurse make?
Public Health Nurses play a vital role in community health. They work to prevent diseases and promote healthy lifestyles. The average yearly salary for a Public Health Nurse is $84,411. This number can vary based on experience and location.
Earnings for Public Health Nurses can range from about $46,189 to over $180,000 a year. Most nurses fall somewhere in the middle, with salaries around $70,518. Factors like education, certifications, and specific job duties can affect the salary. For example, nurses with more experience or specialized skills often earn more.
What are the highest paying cities for a Public Health Nurse?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $174,727
In San Francisco, nurses work with local health departments to ensure residents have access to vaccinations and health screenings. Prominent employers include the San Francisco Department of Public Health.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $136,981
Santa Rosa offers many opportunities to help communities stay healthy. Nurses here work closely with schools and clinics to provide vital health services.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $126,637
In Bakersfield, nurses focus on improving health outcomes in underserved areas. They work in partnership with local organizations to provide education and care.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $122,415
Stockton provides a chance for nurses to make a difference in public health. They collaborate with local health centers and schools to promote wellness.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $118,017
Sacramento offers diverse opportunities in public health. Nurses here work on various projects to address community health issues and improve access to care.
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Gainesville, FL
Average Salary: $115,798
Gainesville is a vibrant city for healthcare professionals. Nurses can find roles in community health centers and collaborate with local universities.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $113,811
Portland is known for its progressive health initiatives. Nurses here work with local organizations to provide comprehensive health services.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $113,546
Los Angeles offers many opportunities for healthcare professionals. Nurses collaborate with various organizations to improve public health and access to care.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $110,109
Salt Lake City provides a chance for nurses to engage in community health programs. They work with local clinics and government agencies to promote wellness.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $105,567
Phoenix offers diverse opportunities for healthcare professionals. Nurses here work to improve health outcomes in various community settings.
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What are the best companies a Public Health Nurse can work for?

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Constant Care Health Services
Average Salary: $178,333
Constant Care Health Services offers rewarding Public Health Nurse positions with a focus on home health care. Their services cover various locations, including California and Washington.
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Advantmed
Average Salary: $168,900
Advantmed provides Public Health Nurse roles with a strong emphasis on population health management. They operate nationally, ensuring diverse opportunities for candidates.
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Molina Healthcare
Average Salary: $136,365
Molina Healthcare seeks Public Health Nurses to work in integrated health services across multiple states. They focus on enhancing community health outcomes.
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NYU Langone Health
Average Salary: $134,249
NYU Langone Health employs Public Health Nurses in their network of hospitals and clinics. They offer positions in New York and beyond, focusing on patient care and education.
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The IMA Group
Average Salary: $131,543
The IMA Group provides Public Health Nurse jobs with a focus on health information technology. They operate across several states, offering diverse public health roles.
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Solano County
Average Salary: $125,447
Solano County offers Public Health Nurse positions that focus on community health initiatives. They are located in California and provide a supportive work environment.
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Option Care Health
Average Salary: $122,958
Option Care Health employs Public Health Nurses in infusion therapy services. They serve various locations across the U.S., ensuring comprehensive care.
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ArchCare
Average Salary: $116,500
ArchCare provides Public Health Nurse roles focusing on elder care and community health. They are located in New York, offering rewarding positions in a caring environment.
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Able Health Care Service
Average Salary: $110,000
Able Health Care Service offers Public Health Nurse jobs with a focus on home health care services. They operate in New York, providing quality care to their clients.
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Fairfax County Government
Average Salary: $103,782
Fairfax County Government provides Public Health Nurse roles focused on community health and wellness. They are located in Virginia and offer a range of public health services.
How to earn more as a Public Health Nurse?
A career in public health nursing offers many opportunities to make a positive impact on communities. Public Health Nurses play a crucial role in promoting health and preventing disease. To earn more in this rewarding field, consider the following factors that can enhance your earning potential.
First, gaining additional certifications can lead to higher pay. Specialized certifications in areas like community health, school health, or infection control can make a Public Health Nurse more valuable. These certifications often require extra training, but they open up higher-paying positions. Networking with other health professionals can also lead to job opportunities that offer better salaries. Building a strong professional network can connect you to roles that match your skills and experience.
Another way to increase earnings is by gaining experience in different settings. Public Health Nurses who work in various environments, such as hospitals, clinics, schools, and government agencies, often have more job opportunities. This diverse experience can make them more attractive to employers willing to offer higher wages. Continuing education is also important. Public Health Nurses who pursue advanced degrees, such as a Master's in Public Health (MPH), can qualify for higher-paying positions. Advanced degrees often lead to roles with greater responsibility and better pay.
Finally, consider relocating to areas with higher demand for public health services. Some regions may offer better salaries due to a shortage of Public Health Nurses. Researching and moving to these areas can result in significant pay increases. Also, taking on leadership roles can boost earnings. Public Health Nurses who move into administrative or managerial positions often see higher salaries due to their expanded responsibilities.
Investing in these areas can lead to a more rewarding and financially rewarding career in public health nursing.
Factors to consider for higher earnings include:
- Gaining additional certifications
- Building a strong professional network
- Gaining experience in various settings
- Pursuing advanced degrees
- Relocating to areas with higher demand



