As the highest-paying state for nurses, California RNs enjoy an annual mean wage of $113,240. RNs in the 10th percentile experience annual mean wages of $71,230, while nurses in the 90th percentile earned an annual mean wage of $163,830.
California also boasts the highest employment level for RNs in the U.S., with 302,770 practicing nurses in the state. Professionals who want to base their nursing careers in the top-paying areas within the state can consider opportunities in Salinas, San Francisco, Oakland, or Hayward.
Nursing students can explore many nursing RN training programs across colleges and universities in the state. Interested individuals can also explore our guide on how to become a registered nurse in California.