Registered Nurse Salary in San Jose, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Healthcare · COL Index: 195.8
$208,940
Median Salary
$189,880
Mean Salary
$106,711
COL-Adjusted
21,460
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $126,150 | $64,428 |
| 25th Percentile | $164,790 | $84,162 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $208,940 | $106,711 |
| 75th Percentile | $219,460 | $112,084 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $226,240 | $115,546 |
What Drives the Range
The $100,090 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Registered Nurse positions in San Jose, 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 Jose, CA's cost-of-living index of 195.8 means that a $208,940 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $106,711 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.