Registered Nurse Salary in San Diego, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Healthcare · COL Index: 160.2
$133,090
Median Salary
$139,350
Mean Salary
$83,077
COL-Adjusted
27,660
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $103,160 | $64,395 |
| 25th Percentile | $121,720 | $75,980 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $133,090 | $83,077 |
| 75th Percentile | $163,450 | $102,029 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $174,820 | $109,126 |
What Drives the Range
The $71,660 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Registered Nurse positions in San Diego, CA reflects several factors. Entry-level professionals and those in smaller organizations typically fall in the lower quartiles, while senior specialists, those with in-demand certifications, and employees at large enterprises command salaries in the upper percentiles.
San Diego, CA's cost-of-living index of 160.2 means that a $133,090 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $83,077 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, this metro area offers a deep talent pool and typically higher total compensation when including equity and bonuses.