Registered Nurse Jobs in Modesto, CA

Modesto, California$81,600 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Registered Nurse Jobs in Modesto

Looking for a Registered Nurse job in Modesto? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Registered Nurse in Modesto, CA.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Modesto has a strong job market for Registered Nurses. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Registered Nurse Salary in Modesto

Entry Level
$52,020
Median
$81,600
Senior Level
$117,300

Registered Nurse salaries in Modesto are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Modesto is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Patient CareClinical SkillsDocumentationCritical ThinkingCommunication

Registered Nurse Job Market in Modesto

Modesto, CA is a specialized market with unique career opportunities for Registered Nurse professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Modesto offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. The city's strong Agriculture and Healthcare sectors create robust demand for Registered Nurse talent. The market for Registered Nurse positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Registered Nurses in Modesto

Local hospital systemsRegional healthcare networksPrivate medical groups

Major employers hiring Registered Nurses in Modesto include Local hospital systems, Regional healthcare networks, Private medical groups. With major hospital systems and research institutions, Modesto offers excellent opportunities for healthcare professionals at all career stages. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Registered Nurses in Modesto

Living in Modesto as a Registered Nurse means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Housing costs are manageable for Registered Nurse salaries in the area. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

102
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 4
Market Size

Commuting as a Registered Nurse in Modesto

Modesto Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Registered Nurses in Modesto: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Registered Nurse professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in California

California has relatively high state income taxes. A Registered Nurse earning $81,600 might pay approximately $6,528 in state income tax. However, California's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Registered Nurses

The job outlook for Registered Nurses in Modesto is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Modesto offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Patient Care, Clinical Skills, Documentation, Critical Thinking.

Relocating to Modesto

California has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Registered Nurse salary in Modesto, CA?

The average Registered Nurse salary in Modesto, CA is $81,600 per year. Entry-level Registered Nurses typically start around $52,020, while experienced professionals can earn $117,300 or more. The national average for Registered Nurse roles is $80,000.

How many Registered Nurse jobs are available in Modesto?

Modesto has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Registered Nurse professionals. Major employers hiring Registered Nurses include Local hospital systems, Regional healthcare networks, Private medical groups. The Agriculture and Healthcare sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Modesto a good city for Registered Nurses?

Modesto is an solid choice for Registered Nurses. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's agriculture industry creates strong demand for healthcare professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Registered Nurses in Modesto?

Top skills for Registered Nurses in Modesto include Patient Care, Clinical Skills, Documentation, Critical Thinking, Communication. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Registered Nurses in Modesto?

Modesto's cost of living is near the national average (102% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Modesto is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Registered Nurses in Modesto?

Modesto Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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