How much does a Staff Nurse make?
A Staff Nurse has an important job in the healthcare system. They work directly with patients, making sure they get the care they need. The job is rewarding and gives a chance to help others every day. The pay for a Staff Nurse can vary a lot. Most Staff Nurses earn between $53,020 and $190,925 each year.
On average, Staff Nurses make about $107,789 per year. The salary can depend on many things. These include the place where the nurse works, the type of care setting, and the nurse's experience. Some hospitals and clinics pay more than others. More experienced nurses usually earn more, too. Working in places with higher living costs can also lead to higher pay.
What are the highest paying cities for a Staff Nurse?

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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $194,948
Modesto offers a supportive healthcare environment with many hospitals. Nurses here benefit from a collaborative workplace and strong community engagement. Memorial Medical Center is a key employer.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $184,899
Working in San Francisco's healthcare sector means joining a diverse and dynamic team. Nurses here have access to cutting-edge medical technologies. UCSF Health and Kaiser Permanente are prominent employers.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $183,130
In Vallejo, nurses enjoy a growing healthcare market with many opportunities for professional development. The city offers a mix of urban and suburban settings, providing varied experiences. NorthBay Healthcare is a leading employer.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $182,539
Sacramento’s healthcare system offers a wide range of experiences. Nurses here can work in various settings from urban hospitals to rural clinics. Kaiser Permanente and UC Davis Health are major employers.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $174,847
San Jose has a thriving healthcare industry with many opportunities for advancement. Nurses can find work in numerous hospitals and clinics. Stanford Health Care and Kaiser Permanente are key players in the area.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $174,499
Santa Rosa offers a mix of urban and rural healthcare experiences. Nurses here can enjoy a balanced lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities. Sutter Health and Kaiser Permanente provide many job opportunities.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $153,614
Salinas provides a welcoming environment with a strong sense of community. Nurses can expect to work in well-regarded hospitals like Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $138,835
Stockton offers a diverse healthcare sector with numerous opportunities for growth. Nurses here benefit from a supportive community. St. Joseph’s Medical Center is a leading employer in the area.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $127,752
Fresno’s healthcare industry is expanding, offering many job opportunities. Nurses can work in a variety of settings, from city hospitals to rural clinics. Community Medical Centers is a major employer.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $121,234
Seattle’s healthcare system is innovative and dynamic. Nurses here can work in cutting-edge medical facilities. Major employers include Seattle Children’s Hospital and Virginia Mason Medical Center.
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What are the best companies a Staff Nurse can work for?

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Washington Hospital Healthcare System
Average Salary: $196,224
Washington Hospital Healthcare System offers excellent opportunities for Staff Nurses. They provide quality care across multiple locations in California. Their facilities are known for their state-of-the-art technology and supportive work environment.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $184,852
Kaiser Permanente is a leading healthcare provider with many locations across the nation. Staff Nurses at Kaiser Permanente enjoy competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. They are known for their patient-centered approach to care.
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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $180,575
Sutter Health operates a large network of hospitals and clinics in Northern California. Staff Nurses at Sutter Health benefit from a collaborative work culture and opportunities for professional development. The organization is committed to excellence in patient care.
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Watsonville Community Hospital
Average Salary: $173,872
Watsonville Community Hospital is a key healthcare provider in Santa Cruz County. Staff Nurses here enjoy a strong community atmosphere and access to modern medical facilities. The hospital focuses on providing compassionate and high-quality care.
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Alameda Health System
Average Salary: $170,603
Alameda Health System runs several hospitals and clinics in the San Francisco Bay Area. Staff Nurses benefit from a diverse work environment and the chance to work with a wide range of patients. The system is dedicated to improving community health.
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San Joaquin County
Average Salary: $143,948
San Joaquin County offers rewarding opportunities for Staff Nurses in Stockton, California. They value teamwork and continuous learning. Nurses here play a vital role in the community's healthcare services.
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NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
Average Salary: $137,285
NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, located in New York City, is a top-tier medical institution. Staff Nurses enjoy a dynamic work environment and the chance to work with leading medical professionals. They provide exceptional patient care with a focus on innovation.
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Tahoe Forest Health System
Average Salary: $134,964
Tahoe Forest Health System offers opportunities for Staff Nurses in beautiful Northern California. Nurses here enjoy a balance between professional growth and a serene work environment. The system is known for its quality healthcare services.
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Mee Memorial Hospital
Average Salary: $131,975
Mee Memorial Hospital provides various healthcare services in Oceanside, California. Staff Nurses here benefit from a supportive work culture and modern medical facilities. They focus on delivering excellent patient care and community service.
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Mount Sinai Health System
Average Salary: $131,527
Mount Sinai Health System in New York City offers diverse opportunities for Staff Nurses. Nurses here work in a prestigious setting with access to advanced medical resources. They are committed to outstanding patient care and medical education.
How to earn more as a Staff Nurse?
Staff Nurses play a vital role in healthcare. They work directly with patients, ensuring they receive the best care. It is possible to increase earning potential in this rewarding career. Taking the right steps can make a big difference. Here are some key factors that can help increase a Staff Nurse’s salary.
Firstly, gaining experience can lead to higher pay. Hospitals often offer pay increases with more years of service. Specialized areas like surgery or intensive care usually pay more. Consider taking on shifts or roles that gain experience in these areas. This experience can lead to better-paying positions later. Second, continuing education can also boost earning potential. Advanced degrees or certifications in areas like critical care or nurse anesthesia can open up higher-paying roles. Invest in courses that align with career goals. These qualifications can make a nurse more competitive in the job market. Third, choosing the right location can make a significant difference. Urban areas or regions with a shortage of nurses often offer higher wages. Relocating to these areas can provide more opportunities and better pay. Researching locations with high demand for nursing staff can be a smart career move.
Next, networking can open doors to higher-paying jobs. Connecting with other healthcare professionals can lead to job opportunities that pay more. Attend conferences, join professional organizations, and use social media platforms to expand the professional network. Building relationships with other nurses and healthcare workers can lead to new job offers. Lastly, advocating for oneself can lead to better pay. Nurses should discuss their value with employers. Seeking pay raises or promotions based on performance can lead to higher earnings. Prepare to discuss achievements and how they benefit the team.
An increase in earning potential is possible with the right strategies. Here are five factors to consider:
- Gain experience in specialized areas.
- Pursue advanced degrees or certifications.
- Choose locations with higher demand for nurses.
- Network with other healthcare professionals.
- Advocate for pay raises or promotions.



