How much does a Staff Nurse make?
Staff nurses play a vital role in healthcare. They provide care to patients and help doctors with treatments. The average yearly salary for a staff nurse is around $103,947. This means most nurses earn between this amount and more each year. The salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of healthcare facility.
Here are some salary ranges for staff nurses:
- The lowest 10% earn about $52,150.
- The middle 50% earn between $66,765 and $125,227.
- The highest 10% earn more than $183,689.
What are the highest paying cities for a Staff Nurse?

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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $185,111
In Modesto, nurses find a welcoming community with a strong healthcare network. Hospitals like Memorial Medical Center offer excellent opportunities. The city's growing population increases the demand for skilled nursing professionals.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $180,538
San Francisco provides a dynamic environment for nursing professionals. Renowned institutions like UCSF Health and Zuckerberg San Francisco General attract top talent. The city's diverse population offers unique healthcare experiences.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $180,094
Vallejo offers a balanced lifestyle with a strong healthcare sector. Nurses can work at Kaiser Permanente and other local hospitals. The city's proximity to San Francisco provides additional career opportunities.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $176,504
San Jose is a hub for healthcare innovation. Major employers like Stanford Health Care and Kaiser Permanente offer cutting-edge opportunities. The city's tech-driven environment creates a unique healthcare landscape.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $174,129
Sacramento provides a stable environment for nursing careers. Hospitals such as UC Davis Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente offer robust opportunities. The city's role as the state capital adds to its appeal.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $170,448
Santa Rosa offers a blend of urban and rural living. Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital and other local facilities provide excellent nursing positions. The city's scenic beauty enhances the quality of life.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $153,066
Salinas is known for its agricultural industry and strong healthcare system. Nurses can work at Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula. The city's community-focused environment supports professional growth.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $137,597
Stockton offers a growing healthcare sector with opportunities at St. Joseph's Medical Center. The city's diverse population and economic growth create a vibrant environment for nursing professionals.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $116,478
Los Angeles provides a vast array of opportunities for nursing professionals. Major hospitals like Cedars-Sinai and UCLA Health offer diverse experiences. The city's size and diversity make it a dynamic place to work.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $114,468
Seattle offers a progressive healthcare environment. Institutions like Seattle Children's Hospital and Virginia Mason Medical Center provide excellent opportunities. The city's tech-driven economy adds to the appeal for nursing professionals.
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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: $191,333
Washington Hospital Healthcare System offers competitive salaries for Staff Nurses. They provide excellent patient care in Fremont and other locations. Nurses here enjoy a supportive work environment.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $178,248
Kaiser Permanente is known for its high salaries for Staff Nurses. They operate in many locations across the country. Nurses here benefit from comprehensive benefits and career growth opportunities.
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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $178,050
Sutter Health provides attractive salaries for Staff Nurses. They serve patients in Northern California. Nurses here work in a collaborative and innovative environment.
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Alameda Health System
Average Salary: $173,513
Alameda Health System offers good salaries for Staff Nurses. They operate in Oakland and other areas. Nurses here enjoy a diverse and inclusive workplace.
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San Joaquin County
Average Salary: $137,990
San Joaquin County provides competitive salaries for Staff Nurses. They serve the community in Stockton and surrounding areas. Nurses here benefit from a strong sense of community.
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NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
Average Salary: $134,834
NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital offers attractive salaries for Staff Nurses. They operate in New York City and other locations. Nurses here work in a prestigious and dynamic environment.
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Tahoe Forest Health System
Average Salary: $132,065
Tahoe Forest Health System provides good salaries for Staff Nurses. They serve patients in Truckee and other areas. Nurses here enjoy a beautiful and supportive work environment.
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Mee Memorial Hospital
Average Salary: $131,380
Mee Memorial Hospital offers competitive salaries for Staff Nurses. They operate in Bradenton and other locations. Nurses here benefit from a caring and dedicated team.
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Mount Sinai Health System
Average Salary: $128,709
Mount Sinai Health System provides attractive salaries for Staff Nurses. They serve patients in New York City and other areas. Nurses here work in a renowned and innovative environment.
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Westchester Medical Center Health Network
Average Salary: $122,135
Westchester Medical Center Health Network offers good salaries for Staff Nurses. They operate in Valhalla and other locations. Nurses here benefit from a supportive and inclusive workplace.
How to earn more as a Staff Nurse?
A Staff Nurse can explore several avenues to increase their earnings. By focusing on specific areas, nurses can enhance their skills and market value. This leads to better job opportunities and higher pay. One key factor is gaining additional certifications. These can include specialties like critical care or pediatrics. Another way is to work in high-demand areas. These include urban centers or regions with a shortage of nurses. Seeking promotions to higher positions also helps. For example, moving to a Nurse Manager role can increase salary.
Continuing education plays a significant role in earning more. Nurses can attend workshops and seminars to stay updated on the latest practices. Networking with other professionals can lead to job opportunities that pay better. Lastly, considering travel nursing can be beneficial. This option often comes with higher pay rates and the chance to explore new places. By focusing on these factors, a Staff Nurse can improve their earning potential.
Here are five ways to earn more as a Staff Nurse:
- Gain additional certifications in specialized areas.
- Work in high-demand areas or regions with a nurse shortage.
- Seek promotions to higher positions like Nurse Manager.
- Attend workshops and seminars for continuing education.
- Consider travel nursing for higher pay rates.