- Jane Hudson, M.S.N
- Published: May 17, 2023
- Last updated: May 19, 2023
Share this post
Salaries for registered nurses in California are among the highest in the nation, making the state an exciting destination for nurses looking to optimize their earning potential.
Registered nurses are the backbone of healthcare, and no one knows that better than the state of California. With more than40 million peopleCalling California home and a constant need for healthcare services, California rolls out the red carpet for registered nurses with some of the best salaries in the country.
Are you a nurse wondering how much you can make in the Golden State? Stay close! We break down the average salary for registered nurses in California, give you some helpful tips to increase your earnings, and highlight some of the great perks and benefits that come with the job.
Take away

Although salaries may not be a significant factor for many in their profession, they undoubtedly play an important role in their professional lives. The high salaries offered to registered nurses in California and other similar high-paying states can be compared to the fuel that runs an engine. Just as fuel is essential to the smooth and efficient operation of a vehicle, pay is the primary reward for healthcare workers, increasing motivation and a sense of value, enabling them to do their jobs effectively.
Average RN Salary in California
According to the data, the average salary for registered nurses in California is$130,131 a year. Includes additional salary of $7,771 on top of base salary of $122,360 per year. Overall, the average RN salary in California is significantly higher than the national average RN salary$98,685 a year.
California RN salary adjusted for cost of living
The high cost of living in California, along with the state's large population and demand for health care services, can contribute to higher RN salaries in the state. According to the latest data, California is among the top 5 states withhigher cost of living index. This index measures how expensive it is to live in a particular place compared to the national average set at 100. The general living index is estimated at 137.6. In addition, there are several indicators that exceed the national average, such as:
- Grocery trade index – 115.2
- Housing area index – 193.8
- Utility index – 124.5
- Traffic index – 129.1
- Health index – 110.5
It is important to note that the cost of living index can vary greatly depending on the specific location in the state, with urban areas typically having a higher index than rural areas.
Best Paying Cities for RNs in California
Thesalary for nursesit varies depending on the city where they work. A number of factors, such as cost of living, demand for nurses, and competition among healthcare employers, can affect salaries in various fields. Based on such factors,cities with the highest payoutsfor registered nurses in California are:
- San Francisco
- Fantastic beach
- Sacramento
- Oakland
- orange
- San Diego
- Engle
- Fresno
- Newport Beach
RN salary comparison in California with other states
Registered nurses in California earn some of the highest salaries in the country. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, California is ranked among the federal stateshigher average wagesas well as the employment level of registered nurses in the United States. Other high-paying states include Hawaii, Oregon, Massachusetts, and Alaska, which also offer six-figure average salaries for RNs.
To get a better idea about itaverage RN salariesin all 50 states, see map below.
RN salary comparison with other nursing roles in California
We have already established that Registered Nursing is a high paying profession in California. However, other care roles also offer competitive salaries. Some job titles associated with registered nurses include:
- Children's nurse:$145,799 a year
- Licensed nurse anesthetist:$207,686 a year
- Nurse teacher:$145,943 a year
- Public health nurse:$90,636 a year
- Work license and professional nurse license:$73,078 a year
Factors Affecting RN Salaries
Several factors can affect the registered nurse salary, including:
- Education Level:According to the BLS, experts with a higher level of education, such asMaster of Science in Nursing (MSN), vocational training or aDoctorate, Ph.D, usually receive higher wages.
- Years of Experience: RNs with several years of experience may qualify for higher paying roles in a healthcare setting.
- Place:RN Salariesthey vary depending on the cost of living and the demand for nurses in different regions, cities and states.
- Industry: RN salaries also vary by industry. According to the BLS,highest paying industriesfor RNs include government, hospitals, ambulatory health services, nursing and home care facilities, and educational services.
- Shift differentials: RNs who work night, weekend, or holiday shifts may receive additional pay or bonuses in addition to their base pay.
Tips to Increase Your California RN Salary

Want to earn more as a registered nurse in California? Here are some simple tips to help you achieve this.
- Go back to school: Continuing your education with advanced degrees can lead to higher paying roles. This can mean ascensionleading positionsor become a specialist in a particular area of nursing.
- Get Certifications: If you have a special interest in a particular area of nursing, getting a certification can be a good move. Certifications show that you are an expert, which can often mean a higher salary.
- Gain experience: The more experience you have, the more likely you are to earn. Try to gain as much experience as possible, especially in specialist areas or in management positions.
- Overtime: Take extra shifts or overtime if possible. You will often be paid more for working time when others do not want it, e.g. weekends or public holidays.
Benefits and advantages of being an RN in California
As a registered nurse in California, you can enjoy many benefits and privileges. Firstly, based on the above, the state offers competitive salaries that are among the highest in the country, as well as various comprehensive benefit packages. Furthermore, nursing is one of the most secure career paths as employment is expectedincrease by 6%during this decade.
California's continuing education requirements also provide opportunities for continuing learning and professional development for career growth. Therefore, overall, as an RN in California, you will have the opportunity to positively impact your community while enjoying a rewarding and lucrative career.
Bottom line
In conclusion, the high salaries for registered nurses in California reflect the importance of their role in the healthcare system. Salary depends, among other things, on various factors such as education, location and experience. Although it may not be the primary factor motivating you to pursue nursing, such a high salary is undoubtedly a sure way to ensure a successful and lucrative professional life.
So why wait? Start taking steps today to increase your earning potential. Or it iscontinuing education, acquire special certifications, build your own experience or work extra shifts, every action you take can bring you closer to achieving your professional and financial goals. Remember that your skills and commitment as a nurse are highly valued, so make sure you get the compensation you deserve!
Jane Hudson, M.S.N
Get the latest nursing news delivered to your inbox
Stay up to date with the latest news that affects your career.
Previous Former Dermatology Nurse Salary: Detailed Analysis
NextRN Salary in Florida: What you need to knowNext
More to explore
Michigan RN Salary Survey: Tips to Increase Your Earnings
In Michigan's vibrant healthcare landscape, Registered Nurses (RNs) receive competitive compensation, with Michigan RN salaries accurately reflecting their vital role
Jane Hudson, M.S.N25. maj 2023
RN salaries in Washington reflect the importance of the role in the healthcare system through competitive earnings and opportunities for growth. Career choice as a registrant
Jane Hudson, M.S.N25. maj 2023
It's time for the next step
Whether it's a new job or continuing education, BetterNurse.org is your career partner.
Find out more
FAQs
What is the typical salary for an RN in California? ›
Years of experience | Per hour |
---|---|
1 to 2 years | $52.89 |
3 to 5 years | $55.51 |
6 to 9 years | $57.51 |
More than 10 years | $64.31 |
How much does an Entry Level Rn make in California? As of May 19, 2023, the average annual pay for an Entry Level Rn in California is $60,187 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $28.94 an hour. This is the equivalent of $1,157/week or $5,015/month.
What part of California pays nurses the most? ›San Jose, CA and the surrounding area has average RN salaries of $155,230. This makes San Jose the highest-paying city for nurses as of May 2021 (according to the BLS). In the United States, the average salary for RNs is $82,750. Additionally, the median (50th percentile) is $77,600.
How much does an RN with a master's earn in California? ›...
MSN Salary by State.
State | California |
---|---|
Hourly | $68.62 |
Monthly | $11,890 |
Annual | $142,720 |
High demand, the high cost of living and union power underlie the higher salaries of California's registered nurses. Burger said the nurse's union has also played a role in assuring that nurses have access to pension plans and that they retire with health benefits.
How much does a BSN RN earn in California? ›$56,795 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $71,483 is the 75th percentile.
What is the salary of a Level 2 RN in California? ›How much does a Staff Nurse - RN II make in California? The average Staff Nurse - RN II salary in California is $88,876 as of May 01, 2023, but the range typically falls between $80,347 and $98,512.
What is the lowest paid RN? ›For example, according to the BLS, the bottom 10% of registered nurses report a median annual salary of $59,450. The top 10% of registered nurses earn a median annual salary of $120,250.
What is the highest paying RN field? ›The Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist consistently ranks as the highest-paid nursing career. That is because Nurse Anesthetists are highly skilled Registered Nurses who work closely with medical staff during medical procedures that require anesthesia.
Can you live comfortably as a nurse in California? ›Make The Most Of Your Salary
However, due to California's high-paying nursing salaries and various cities with affordable living costs, it's very possible to live comfortably in this state on your own. What is this? For help finding your next nursing job in California, visit our job board!
Where is the best place to work as a nurse in California? ›
1. San Francisco, California. As one of the highest-paying cities for nurses, this city by the bay offers plenty of job opportunities to help offset the high cost of living. San Francisco is an area with diverse health care needs for a population of nearly one million people.
What is the lowest nurse salary in California? ›While ZipRecruiter is seeing salaries as high as $87,641 and as low as $44,555, the majority of Entry Level Registered Nurse salaries currently range between $55,816 (25th percentile) to $64,139 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $87,151 annually in California.
What is an RN with a Masters called? ›Nurse Practitioner (NP)
A nurse practitioner is an advanced practice registered nurse who is educated at the master's level or higher, and represents a step up in responsibilities and autonomy compared to registered nurses.
Average salary
Although professionals with either a BSN or an MSN often can receive high salaries, having an MSN typically raises a nurse's earning potential more. The national average salary for registered nurses is $85,008 per year .
The average New Graduate Registered Nurse salary in California is $75,111 as of May 01, 2023, but the range typically falls between $67,379 and $85,864.
What state pays RN the most? ›In the United States overall, the average registered nurse salary is $82,750 and the median (50th percentile) is $77,600. California, with RN salaries averaging $124,000, is the highest-paying state for nurses as of May 2021 (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics).
What is the hourly rate for a nurse in California? ›Average Nurse Salary in California
California is one of the highest paying states for registered nurses. The registered nurse salary in California is $125,340 per year. This means that nurses in California earn an average of $60.26 per hour.
While both nurse practitioners and doctors can enjoy the benefit of great incomes, doctors make almost twice as much as nurse practitioners. In fact, according to a report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, doctors typically earn an average annual salary of about $200,000 or more.
How much does a BSN nurse at UCLA make? ›Average UCLA Health Registered Nurse hourly pay in California is approximately $65.32, which is 59% above the national average.
How can a BSN RN make the most money? ›- Complete your BSN degree. ...
- Pursue experience in a nursing specialty. ...
- Volunteer to work overtime on occasion. ...
- Get an advanced nursing degree. ...
- Get creative with nursing side jobs. ...
- Become a travel nurse.
Do nurses get paid well in California? ›
Highest paying cities in California for registered nurses
California nursing salaries vary from region to region across the state. The area where registered nurses are paid the highest is Sunnyvale, where the average RNs salary is $155,230 and 20,640 registered nurses are currently employed.
Average Kaiser Permanente hourly pay ranges from approximately $19.14 per hour for Nursing Attendant to $115 per hour for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. The average Kaiser Permanente salary ranges from approximately $110,819 per year for Nurse to $184,990 per year for Registered Nurse - PACU.
How much does a RN II at UCLA make? ›Average UCLA Health Registered Nurse II yearly pay in the United States is approximately $116,000, which is 61% above the national average.
How much is a teachers salary in California? ›His analysis of 2021-22 compensation determined the median California teacher salary was $96,323 – $8,000 more than a comparably educated worker outside of education.
Can you negotiate RN salary? ›Yes! It is possible to negotiate a higher salary as a new nurse.
What is pharmacist salary? › Is the nursing shortage getting better? ›According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Employment Projections 2021-2031, the Registered Nursing (RN) workforce is expected to grow by 6% over the next decade. The RN workforce is expected to grow from 3.1 million in 2021 to 3.3 million in 2031, an increase of 195,400 nurses.
How to make 7 figures as a nurse? ›- Become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) ...
- Become a Nurse Practitioner (NP) ...
- Become a Nurse Midwife. ...
- Advance in Nurse Leadership. ...
- Begin travel nursing assignment. ...
- Change Nursing specialties. ...
- Relocate to a higher paying state. ...
- Make sacrifices.
Very. Results from a 2020 survey indicate that almost two-thirds of nurses (62%) experience burnout. It's especially common among younger nurses, with 69% of nurses under 25 reporting burnout.
Where is the best place to be a nurse in the world? ›Norway, a Scandinavian country known as the land of Fjords, has one of the highest standards of living in the world as well as job satisfaction for nurses. While the average salary is $46,050, nurses have the ability to earn upwards of $100,000 depending on experience and specialty.
Why California is the best state for nurses? ›
For example, California tops the list for both the highest RN annual wages and cost of living. For some nurses, the exceptionally high annual salary of $120,560 may offset living expenses. Significant differences emerge when looking at salaries in relation to living expenses in specific areas within states.
Is California a good state for nurses? ›Oregon is one of the best states for nurses. Texas is one of the best states for nurses. California is one of the best states for nurses.
Can a California RN work in another state? ›When moving from one state to another, all registered nurses must apply for licensure by endorsement in the state where they will be working, regardless of their NLC status. Endorsement is the formal process where an RN can obtain a license in a second or new jurisdiction.
Are California nurses happier? ›It found that in general, nurses in California reported being happier and having better workloads. As for patient outcomes? Signs pointed toward a link in improvement, but limitations were also prevalent.
Where is the hardest place to work as a nurse? ›- Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nurses. ICU is an extremely high-pressure environment and these nurses work with patients who have significant injuries and disease with added morbidity risks. ...
- Emergency Department nurses. ...
- Neonatal ICU. ...
- OR nursing. ...
- Oncology Nursing. ...
- Psychiatric Nursing.
Case in point, within all general areas of nursing, the Medical ICU, Trauma ICU, Peds ICU, Neonatal ICU, are perceived to require the highest skill set of nurses.
Is an MSN higher than an RN? ›There are many career pathways in nursing. The primary objective for many people starting out in this field is to become a registered nurse (RN). An online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree is often the next step that can help RNs advance their careers even further.
What comes after RN? ›There are five levels of nursing: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Registered Nurse (RN), Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Each level has different requirements, educational qualifications, and salary rates.
Is an RN higher than an MA? ›To become both a medical assistant and a nurse requires different levels of specialized education and training. Requirements for each can vary by state, but generally, becoming a registered nurse takes longer and requires more career-specific training than earning a medical assistant position.
What percentage of nurses have a master's degree? ›In 2020, 14.9% of the nation's registered nurses held a master's degree and 2,2% held a doctoral degree as their highest educational preparation. The current demand for master's- and doctorally prepared nurses for advanced practice, clinical specialties, teaching, and research roles far outstrips the supply.
Why get an MSN over BSN? ›
The primary difference between the degrees is that an MSN provides nurses with more career options and opportunities to increase their annual salaries. While a BSN program teaches nurses how to provide quality patient care, registered nurses do not serve as primary care providers for patients.
Does DNP pay more than MSN? ›According to PayScale.com, individuals with a DNP earn a higher average income than those with the MSN: DNP: $102,000 average salary. MSN: $93,000 average salary.
What do you call a RN with a PhD? ›Introduction. Advanced Nurse Practitioners (ANPs) provide at least a portion of the clinical care received by some Missouri residents. A subset of these ANPs have earned a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. Patients generally value the care they receive from their ANP clinicians, be they a DNP, or not.
How much do ICU nurses make in CA? ›$77,359 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $146,884 is the 75th percentile.
What is a good annual salary in California? ›This is equivalent of $1,177 a week or $5,102 a month. Most salaries in California range between $42,503 (25th percentile) to $78,522 (75th percentile) annually. Of course, salaries will vary depending on yor occupation, experience, and many other factors.
What is the highest a RN can get paid? ›- Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse – $120,000.
- General Nurse Practitioner – $118,000.
- Critical Care Nurse – $118,000.
- Certified Nurse Midwife – $114,000.
- Informatics Nurse – $102,000.
- Clinical Nurse Specialist – $95,000.
- Nurse Educator – $82,000.
- Legal Nurse Consultant – $81,000.
In the United States overall, the average registered nurse salary is $82,750 and the median (50th percentile) is $77,600. California, with RN salaries averaging $124,000, is the highest-paying state for nurses as of May 2021 (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics).
What is the highest pay for an RN? ›What is the highest-paid nurse? Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists! Earning $195,610 annually, CRNAs earn significantly more than any other type of nurse or nursing specialty.
How to make $100,000 a year as a nurse? ›- Become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) ...
- Become a Nurse Practitioner (NP) ...
- Become a Nurse Midwife. ...
- Advance in Nurse Leadership. ...
- Begin travel nursing assignment. ...
- Change Nursing specialties. ...
- Relocate to a higher paying state. ...
- Make sacrifices.
Reeves said new nurses can make up to $500,000 by the age of 27, if they follow her step-by-step guide to success. “Want your life to look like mine? Then listen up,” she said on TikTok.
Which country pay nurses most? ›
Switzerland: Nurses in Switzerland have some of the highest salaries in the world, with an average annual salary of around $85000. Canada: Nurses in Canada earn an average annual salary of around $75000. Germany: Nurses in Germany have an average salary of around $65000.
What state pays school nurses most? ›The highest-paid school nurses work in California and Hawaii where the cost of living is respectively 50 percent higher and 77 percent higher than it is throughout the U.S. as a whole.
Do nurses make good money in California? ›Highest paying cities in California for registered nurses
California nursing salaries vary from region to region across the state. The area where registered nurses are paid the highest is Sunnyvale, where the average RNs salary is $155,230 and 20,640 registered nurses are currently employed.
Average Salary of a Doctor in the U.S.
According to Glassdoor, the average salary of a medical doctor in the U.S. is $1,65,347 (around INR 13 million) per year.
- 1 | Nurse Anesthetist. ...
- 2 | Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. ...
- 3 | Nurse Midwife. ...
- 4 | Family Nurse Practitioner. ...
- 5 | Clinical Nurse Specialist. ...
- 6 | Nurse Researcher. ...
- 7 | Travel Nurse. ...
- 8 | Informatics Nurse.