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Nursing Jobs in California

Known for its landscapes, bustling cities, and advanced healthcare systems, California offers a wealth of opportunities for nurses across different specialties. Whether you’re a new graduate or a seasoned professional, understanding the average salary, license requirements, and job prospects in the Golden State is essential.

Top Nursing Jobs in California

Whether you're an RN, NP, APRN, LPN, LVN, or another nursing professional, explore fulfilling opportunities in California where you can make a significant impact on patients & their well-being.

392 Active Nursing Jobs in California

RN OR Full Time Day

Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital

Los Angeles, California

yesterday

Nurse Manager

Rowan

Long Beach, California

yesterday

RN Utilization Mgmt Full-Time Day

Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital

Los Angeles, California

yesterday

Piercing Studio Nurse

Rowan

Palo Alto, California

yesterday

RN Clinical Educator - Full Time

Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital

Los Angeles, California

yesterday

RN Wound Care PD

Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital

Los Angeles, California

yesterday

Finding Nursing Jobs in California

California’s expansive healthcare system creates a high demand for nursing professionals in hospitals, clinics, and specialized care facilities. Some of the top employers include:

Kaiser Permanente in multiple locations
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles
Stanford Health Care in Palo Alto

Additionally, the state offers opportunities in telehealth, public health, and cutting-edge fields like research and informatics. Whether you prefer a fast-paced urban hospital or a smaller community-based clinic, California has something to suit your preferences.

Why Choose California for Your Nursing Career?

California is more than just a high-paying state for nurses. It offers a dynamic lifestyle with access to world-class entertainment, outdoor activities, and cultural diversity. While the cost of living can be higher than the national average, the competitive salaries and robust professional opportunities make it a worthwhile investment in your career.

Explore Specialties

Average Nurse Salary in California

Registered nurses (RNs) in California earn an average annual salary of approximately $124,000, making it one of the highest-paying states for nurses. Factors such as experience, specialty, and location can significantly influence earnings, with nurses in cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego often earning top-tier salaries.

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) in California earn an average salary of around $64,000 annually, while nurse practitioners (NPs) can expect to make approximately $145,000 per year. These competitive wages reflect California’s commitment to attracting and retaining skilled healthcare professionals.

License Requirements for Nurses in California

To work as a nurse in California, you must obtain a valid license issued by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). Here’s what you need to know:

For RNs and LPNs: Complete an accredited nursing program and pass the NCLEX exam.

For APRNs: Hold a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing, achieve national certification in your specialty, and meet the state’s specific continuing education requirements.

California is not part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), meaning nurses moving from other states must apply for licensure by endorsement. The process involves submitting verification of your current license and meeting all of California’s criteria.