Biotech, defense, military, perfect weather premium. Here's how Registered Nurse (RN)s in San Diego get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the San Diego metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $90,500 | $68,800 | $117,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $112,400 | $85,500 | $146,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $129,300 | $98,300 | $168,100 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $155,100 | $117,900 | $201,700 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $175,800 | $133,600 | $228,600 |
Highest-paying metros for Registered Nurse (RN)s — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the San Diego metro economy.
The average Registered Nurse (RN) salary in the San Diego metro is $129,300 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $98,300 to $168,100 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $213,400 or more.
Yes — San Diego pays -16% relative to the California state median for Registered Nurse (RN)s. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
San Diego vs. national: +36%. That puts San Diego among the stronger US markets for Registered Nurse (RN)s — though cost of living in San Diego is also typically elevated.
In San Diego, the median Registered Nurse (RN) salary of $129,300 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Registered Nurse (RN)s in San Diego start around $90,500, while seniors (10+ years) reach $155,100 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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