How much does a Public Health Nurse make?
Public Health Nurses play a vital role in the healthcare system. They work to improve community health and prevent diseases. The average yearly salary for a Public Health Nurse is about $85,178. This means they earn a good income for their important work.
Public Health Nurses often earn more depending on their experience and where they work. The lowest 10% earn around $46,278, while the highest 10% earn over $180,000. Here are some specific salaries based on experience:
- Entry level: Around $46,278
- Early career: Around $58,434
- Mid career: Around $70,591
- Experienced: Around $82,747
- Late career: Around $94,904
- Highly experienced: Around $107,060 and more
What are the highest paying cities for a Public Health Nurse?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $179,923
In San Francisco, healthcare professionals enjoy a vibrant community. Nurses here work in diverse neighborhoods, offering services to a variety of populations. Major employers include UCSF Health and San Francisco Department of Public Health.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $136,153
Santa Rosa offers a mix of urban and rural settings, making it a unique place for nurses. The city's healthcare facilities focus on community health initiatives. Nurses can work for organizations like Sutter Health and Santa Rosa Family Health Center.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $125,054
Bakersfield provides a growing market for healthcare services. Nurses here play a key role in community health and education. Key employers include Kern Medical Center and Adventist Health Bakersfield.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $123,097
Stockton is a city that values community health. Nurses work in various settings to improve the well-being of residents. Stockton offers opportunities with St. Joseph’s Medical Center and San Joaquin General Hospital.
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Gainesville, FL
Average Salary: $115,798
Gainesville offers a dynamic healthcare environment. Nurses here focus on preventive care and public health education. Employers include UF Health and Alachua County Health Department.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $114,079
Portland is known for its progressive healthcare initiatives. Nurses work in a city that supports health and wellness. Key employers include Kaiser Permanente and Providence Health & Services.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $111,954
Los Angeles offers a diverse and bustling healthcare scene. Nurses here engage in a variety of community services. Major employers include Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $108,412
Salt Lake City provides a supportive environment for healthcare professionals. Nurses here focus on improving community health. Key employers include University of Utah Health and Intermountain Healthcare.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $108,215
Phoenix offers a growing market for healthcare services. Nurses play a vital role in community health and education. Opportunities exist with Banner Health and Valleywise Health.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $103,776
Modesto is a city that values the contributions of healthcare professionals. Nurses work in community health and education. Key employers include Memorial Medical Center and Adventist Health.
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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: $178,182
Constant Care Health Services values its Public Health Nurses and offers competitive salaries. They operate in several states, providing home health care. Nurses work closely with patients and families to ensure top-notch care.
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Advantmed
Average Salary: $161,125
Advantmed is known for its innovative approach to healthcare. Public Health Nurses here benefit from high salaries and work in major cities across the country. They focus on improving patient outcomes through technology.
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Molina Healthcare
Average Salary: $136,712
Molina Healthcare offers rewarding opportunities for Public Health Nurses. They operate in many states and work to enhance the health of their communities. Nurses here enjoy a supportive work environment and excellent benefits.
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NYU Langone Health
Average Salary: $134,340
At NYU Langone Health, Public Health Nurses are part of a renowned healthcare system. They work in New York City and provide exceptional care. The company values professional growth and offers many advancement opportunities.
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The IMA Group
Average Salary: $131,563
The IMA Group offers attractive salaries for Public Health Nurses. They serve clients in various locations, focusing on improving public health. Nurses here collaborate with other healthcare professionals to deliver quality care.
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Solano County
Average Salary: $125,614
Solano County provides a stable environment for Public Health Nurses with good pay. They operate in California, focusing on community health. Nurses here enjoy a balance between work and personal life.
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Option Care Health
Average Salary: $119,958
Option Care Health offers competitive salaries for Public Health Nurses. They work in multiple states, providing specialized care. Nurses here have opportunities to make a significant impact on patient health.
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ArchCare
Average Salary: $117,389
ArchCare values its Public Health Nurses and offers a good salary. They operate in New York, focusing on elder care. Nurses here are part of a caring community that values their contributions.
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Freedom Care
Average Salary: $105,000
Freedom Care provides a supportive environment for Public Health Nurses. They operate in Pennsylvania, focusing on improving community health. Nurses here enjoy a good work-life balance and excellent benefits.
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Fairfax County Government
Average Salary: $104,433
Fairfax County Government offers a solid salary for Public Health Nurses. They serve in Virginia, focusing on public health initiatives. Nurses here are part of a dedicated team working to enhance community health.
How to earn more as a Public Health Nurse?
Earning more as a Public Health Nurse involves a combination of education, experience, and strategic career choices. Pursuing advanced degrees can significantly boost earning potential. A Master's in Public Health (MPH) or a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) can lead to higher paying positions. These advanced degrees equip nurses with specialized knowledge and skills that are in high demand.
Additional certifications can also enhance earning potential. Certifications in areas such as emergency preparedness, infection control, or community health can make a nurse more attractive to employers. These certifications demonstrate a commitment to professional development and can lead to higher salary offers. Networking and staying connected with peers in the field can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and engaging in online forums can lead to new job prospects and salary negotiations.
Consider these five factors to increase earnings:
- Advanced Education: Earn a Master's or Doctorate in Public Health.
- Certifications: Obtain certifications in specialized areas of public health.
- Experience: Gain experience in high-demand public health settings.
- Networking: Build connections with professionals in the field.
- Continued Education: Stay updated with the latest in public health practices.



