In Fresno, CA, Registered Nurses earn a median of $131,390 a year — about 39% above the U.S. median of $94,480. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #6.
What that pay is worth in Fresno
Local prices run 102 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $133,780 salary buys less than it looks — about $130,954 in national-average buying power.
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in Fresno?
A typical Fresno home runs about $348,500 — 2.6 times the average Registered Nurse salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,324/mo takes roughly 12% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Registered Nurse pay ladder in Fresno
Entry-level (10th percentile) Registered Nurses earn about $97,010; the top 10% reach $181,210 — a $84,200 spread, wide for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Registered Nurse job market in Fresno
Fresno employs roughly 8,300 Registered Nurses. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Fresno with other cities
See the full Registered Nurse salary by city ranking to weigh Fresno against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Registered Nurses make in Fresno?
The average Registered Nurse in Fresno, CA earns about $133,780 per year, 41.6% above the national average of $94,480.
What is the take-home pay for Registered Nurses in Fresno after taxes?
After federal and CA taxes, this $133,780 salary is worth about $94,339 a year - roughly $7,861 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 29%.
What do the highest-paid Registered Nurses earn in Fresno?
The top 10% of Registered Nurses in Fresno earn about $181,210 a year, versus about $97,010 for the bottom 10%.
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in Fresno?
A typical Fresno home runs about $348,500 - roughly 2.6x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.