Registered Nurse Salary in California (2026)
California · 42.0% above national average · Very High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $216,645 | +55.0% | Very High |
| San Diego | $206,861 | +48.0% | Very High |
| San Jose | $240,406 | +72.0% | Very High |
| San Francisco | $258,576 | +85.0% | Very High |
| Fresno | $150,953 | +8.0% | Very High |
| Sacramento | $170,521 | +22.0% | Very High |
| Long Beach | $202,668 | +45.0% | Very High |
| Bakersfield | $150,953 | +8.0% | Very High |
| Anaheim | $198,475 | +42.0% | Very High |
| Santa Ana | $195,679 | +40.0% | Very High |
| Riverside | $178,907 | +28.0% | Very High |
| Stockton | $164,930 | +18.0% | Very High |
| Irvine | $216,645 | +55.0% | Very High |
| San Bernardino | $164,930 | +18.0% | Very High |
| Modesto | $156,544 | +12.0% | Very High |
| Fontana | $170,521 | +22.0% | Very High |
| Moreno Valley | $160,737 | +15.0% | Very High |
| Glendale | $206,861 | +48.0% | Very High |
| Fremont | $223,634 | +60.0% | Very High |
California is home to a very strong job market for Registered Nurses. The state's key industries — Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $139,771 per year, California's Registered Nurse salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average.
The cost of living in California (index: 1.42) justifies the higher pay scale. Entry-level professionals in California can expect to earn $91,935–$111,264, while experienced Registered Nurses can command $154,754–$169,048.
Looking ahead, the Registered Nurse profession in California is projected to grow at 4.2% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Technology continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Registered Nurse salary in California?The average Registered Nurse salary in California is $139,771 per year in 2026, which is 42.0% above the national average of $98,430.
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What city in California pays Registered Nurses the most?San Francisco and San Jose typically pay Registered Nurses the highest wages in California due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is California a good state for Registered Nurses?California has a very strong job market with major industries in Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Registered Nurse employment.
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How does California Registered Nurse salary compare to the US average?At $139,771/year, California Registered Nurse salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average of $98,430/year.