Average Salary
$100,852
Based on 27 submissions
COL Adjusted
$72,817
COL Index: 138.5 (100 = US avg)
vs. National Avg
+30.0%
National avg: $77,600
Salary by Specialty
NICU
1 submission
$140,000
average
Operating Room
1 submission
$135,000
average
ICU/Critical Care
11 submissions
$117,273
average
Telemetry
1 submission
$105,000
average
Emergency Department
2 submissions
$101,500
average
Oncology
1 submission
$95,000
average
Pediatrics
1 submission
$88,000
average
Labor & Delivery
2 submissions
$78,000
average
Med-Surg
2 submissions
$75,000
average
Psychiatric/Mental Health
1 submission
$75,000
average
Medical-Surgical
3 submissions
$72,667
average
Case Management
1 submission
$68,000
average
About California
Cost of Living
California's cost of living index is 138.5 (US average = 100). This means California is 38.5% more expensive than the national average.
Region
California is located in the West region of the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average nurse salary in California?
The average nurse salary in California is $100,852 based on 27 verified submissions. This exceeds the national average of $77,600.
How does California nurse pay compare to cost of living?
California has a cost of living index of 138.5 (100 = US average). When adjusted for cost of living, the effective salary is approximately $72,817. This means California is 38.5% more expensive than average.
What nursing specialties pay the most in California?
Based on verified submissions, the highest-paying nursing specialties in California are: NICU ($140,000 avg), Operating Room ($135,000 avg), ICU/Critical Care ($117,273 avg). Salaries vary by experience, certifications, and facility type.
Is California a good state for nurse pay?
California nurse salaries are 30.0% higher than the national average. However, it's important to consider cost of living, benefits, nurse-to-patient ratios, and work conditions when evaluating total compensation value.
Submit Your California Salary
Help other nurses in California by sharing your salary information anonymously. All submissions are verified before being published.
All submissions are reviewed before being published. Your data helps thousands of nurses negotiate better.