Registered Nurse Salary in San Francisco

2026 compensation data for Registered Nurse positions in San Francisco. Ranges from $74,000 (entry-level) to $176,000 (senior).

Median (Mid)

$115,000

vs National

+4%

COL Index

180

Senior Max

$176,000

Salary Ranges by Experience Level

Entry-Level (0–2 years)$74,000$101,000
$74KMedian: $86,000$101K
Mid-Level (3–5 years)$97,000$135,000
$97KMedian: $115,000$135K
Senior (6+ years)$128,000$176,000
$128KMedian: $149,000$176K

Detailed Compensation Breakdown

LevelMinimumMedianMaximum
Entry-Level$74,000$86,000$101,000
Mid-Level$97,000$115,000$135,000
Senior$128,000$149,000$176,000

About Registered Nurse Salaries in San Francisco

The median registered nurse salary in San Francisco is $115,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 4% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 180 (national average = 100), San Francisco offers a higher cost of living that partially offsets the salary premium.

Entry-level registered nurses in San Francisco can expect to earn between $74,000 and $101,000, while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $176,000.

These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets.

Registered Nurse Salaries in Other Cities

Other Roles in San Francisco

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