How much does a Registered Nurse make?
Registered Nurses enjoy a stable and rewarding career. The average yearly salary for these professionals stands at $92,674. This is a promising figure for job seekers looking into healthcare roles. The range of salaries offers various opportunities depending on experience and location.
Different levels of experience and education can lead to various salary brackets. For example, the lowest 10% of earners make about $53,250 a year, while the top 10% exceed $156,000 annually. Such a spread means there are significant growth opportunities. Many nurses can increase their earnings with additional certifications and experience. Hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities often offer competitive salaries. Specializations in areas like pediatrics or oncology can also lead to higher pay.
What are the highest paying cities for a Registered Nurse?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $144,835
In San Francisco, a city known for its tech hub, nurses find rewarding work in top-tier hospitals. UCSF Health and Kaiser Permanente offer great opportunities. The city's diverse population enriches the nursing experience.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $133,310
Santa Rosa is home to several quality healthcare providers like Sutter Health. Nurses enjoy a mix of community care and advanced medical treatments. The city's relaxed lifestyle makes it a pleasant place to work and live.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $132,584
Modesto offers a variety of nursing roles in facilities such as Memorial Medical Center. Nurses benefit from a supportive community atmosphere. The cost of living is lower than in some other cities, adding to the appeal.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $131,647
Salinas boasts a strong healthcare sector with opportunities at Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula. Nurses here often work in a tight-knit community setting. The agricultural backdrop adds a unique flavor to the nursing experience.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $131,091
San Jose's vibrant tech culture impacts its healthcare needs. Nurses work in cutting-edge facilities like Stanford Health Care. The city offers a dynamic environment for professional growth. Its diverse population enriches the nursing practice.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $127,938
Sacramento provides diverse nursing opportunities at places like UC Davis Health. The city's political center offers unique healthcare needs. Nurses here enjoy a balanced lifestyle with plenty of cultural activities.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $127,415
Stockton offers a variety of nursing positions in hospitals such as St. Joseph's Medical Center. The city’s community-focused approach makes it a great place for nurses looking for a supportive work environment. It’s also an affordable place to live.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $126,579
San Diego’s beautiful climate makes for an enjoyable work environment. Nurses can find opportunities at Scripps Health and UC San Diego Health. The city’s proximity to the ocean provides a perfect balance for a fulfilling career and lifestyle.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $125,298
Los Angeles offers a multitude of nursing positions in major hospitals like Cedars-Sinai. The city’s diverse population provides a rich nursing experience. Nurses benefit from a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $124,911
Minneapolis is known for its healthcare facilities such as the Mayo Clinic. Nurses find a strong sense of community and professional support. The city offers a high quality of life with its numerous cultural and recreational activities.
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What are the best companies a Registered Nurse can work for?

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Guadalupe Regional Medical Center
Average Salary: $485,769
Guadalupe Regional Medical Center offers Registered Nurses a competitive salary. They have locations in Texas and provide a wide range of medical services. Nurses here enjoy a supportive work environment.
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Best Home Health Providers
Average Salary: $226,774
Best Home Health Providers pays well for its Registered Nurses. They operate in various locations across the country. The company focuses on home-based care, offering a rewarding work experience.
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University of California - San Francisco
Average Salary: $221,390
The University of California - San Francisco offers a good salary for Registered Nurses. Located in California, the university provides a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth.
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Premier Home Health Providers, Inc.
Average Salary: $210,156
Premier Home Health Providers, Inc. provides a competitive salary for Registered Nurses. They serve areas in Texas and focus on quality patient care in the home setting.
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San Francisco Department of Public Health
Average Salary: $207,571
The San Francisco Department of Public Health offers a good salary for Registered Nurses. They provide essential health services across the city. Nurses here work in a diverse and supportive environment.
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Nurturing Home Health Care
Average Salary: $203,523
Nurturing Home Health Care pays well for Registered Nurses. They serve clients in various locations. The company emphasizes a nurturing and patient-focused approach to care.
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Asereth Medical Services
Average Salary: $200,993
Asereth Medical Services provides a competitive salary for Registered Nurses. They operate in multiple locations. The company values teamwork and patient care.
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John Muir Health
Average Salary: $191,038
John Muir Health offers a solid salary for Registered Nurses. Located in California, the company focuses on quality healthcare. Nurses here enjoy a supportive work culture.
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excellent home care
Average Salary: $187,000
Excellent Home Care pays well for Registered Nurses. They provide home care services in various locations. The company values excellent patient care and nurse satisfaction.
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Pegasus Home Health Care
Average Salary: $185,000
Pegasus Home Health Care offers a good salary for Registered Nurses. They serve clients across the country. The company emphasizes high-quality home care services.
How to earn more as a Registered Nurse?
Registered Nurses have the potential to earn more through various avenues. These strategies require dedication and a proactive approach. They focus on enhancing skills, education, and work environment. Each step can lead to better pay and job satisfaction.
Here are five factors that can help Registered Nurses increase their earnings:
- Pursue Advanced Certifications: Additional certifications in specialized areas can lead to higher pay. These areas can include critical care or pediatric nursing.
- Gain More Experience: Experience often translates to higher pay. Seeking positions in busy hospitals or specialized clinics can help. This can increase opportunities for overtime.
- Explore Higher Education: Advanced degrees like a Master’s in Nursing can open doors to higher-paying roles. These can include nurse practitioner or nurse educator positions.
- Look for Higher-Paying Locations: Salaries vary by region and city. Some areas offer higher wages for healthcare professionals. Considering relocation can be a smart move.
- Consider Travel Nursing: Travel nurses often earn more. They also get to work in different locations. This can provide both financial and professional growth.



