Career
Intensive Care Unit Icu Nurse Salary In California 2024
Learn everything you need to know about becoming an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurse, including salary, schools, and programs.
Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurse Salary in California
Annual Median: $133,990
Hourly Median: $64.42
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Annual and Hourly Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurse California Salary Table:
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th | $83,510 | $40.15 |
| 25th | $105,390 | $50.67 |
| Median | $133,990 | $64.42 |
| 75th | $168,280 | $80.9 |
| 90th | $194,240 | $93.38 |
Best Schools to become a Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurse in California 2024
West Coast University-Orange County
In-State Tuition:$21,646
Out-of-State Tuition:$21,646
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:73%
Total Enrollment:4,475
West Coast University-Los Angeles
In-State Tuition:$34,742
Out-of-State Tuition:$34,742
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:100%
Total Enrollment:2,620
Azusa Pacific University
In-State Tuition:$41,650
Out-of-State Tuition:$41,650
Admission Rate:87%
Graduation Rate:61%
Total Enrollment:7,169
West Coast University-Ontario
In-State Tuition:$34,742
Out-of-State Tuition:$34,742
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:64%
Total Enrollment:2,579
Samuel Merritt University
In-State Tuition:$47,931
Out-of-State Tuition:$47,931
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:N/A
Total Enrollment:1,911
California State University-Fullerton
In-State Tuition:$5,742
Out-of-State Tuition:$17,622
Admission Rate:67%
Graduation Rate:69%
Total Enrollment:40,386
Browse Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurse Salaries by the Top Cities in California
Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurse Salary in California FAQs
What factors influence the salary of an ICU Nurse in California?
Several key factors can affect your salary as an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nurse in California, including:
- Experience: More years of nursing practice typically correlate with higher pay.
- Education: Advanced degrees, such as a Master's in Nursing or Nurse Practitioner certification, can lead to increased earnings.
- Certifications: Specialized certifications, such as CCRN (Critical Care Registered Nurse), can enhance your qualifications and salary potential.
- Location: Salaries can vary significantly between different cities and regions within California, with urban areas often offering higher wages.
- Work Environment: Hospitals, outpatient facilities, and private practices might have different salary scales based on their funding and patient volume.
How does the hospital type impact the salary of an ICU Nurse in California?
The type of healthcare facility where you work can greatly influence your salary.
- Academic Medical Centers: These institutions often pay higher salaries due to their involvement in research and teaching.
- Community Hospitals: Generally offer competitive but potentially lower salaries compared to academic centers.
- For-Profit vs. Non-Profit: For-profit hospitals may offer higher salaries and bonuses to attract staff, while non-profit facilities may emphasize other benefits.
Are there opportunities for overtime pay in this role?
Yes, as an ICU nurse, you often have the opportunity to work overtime. Many hospitals are heavily reliant on their nursing staff, particularly in critical care units, which can lead to:
- Mandatory Overtime: In times of high patient volume or staffing shortages, you may be required to work extra hours.
- Voluntary Overtime: You may have the choice to take on additional shifts, which can significantly boost your overall earnings.
What types of benefits typically accompany the salary for ICU Nurses?
In addition to your base salary, many employers offer a range of benefits that can enhance your overall compensation package, including:
- Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family.
- Retirement Plans: Options such as 401(k) or pension plans to help you save for the future.
- Paid Time Off: Vacation days, sick leave, and personal days that are typically part of your employment package.
- Continuing Education Reimbursement: Financial support for further education and certification to enhance your skills and qualifications.
- Shift Differentials: Additional pay for working nights, weekends, or holidays.
How does the demand for ICU Nurses in California affect salary trends?
The demand for ICU nurses is continually high in California, influenced by factors such as:
- Population Growth: California's growing and aging population leads to increased healthcare needs, resulting in more opportunities for nurses in critical care.
- Nurse Shortage: The ongoing national nursing shortage pushes salaries higher as employers compete for a limited number of qualified candidates.
- Evolving Healthcare Needs: Changes in patient care models and treatment protocols also require more skilled ICU nurses, influencing salary adjustments.
What is the potential for salary advancement in this career?
As an ICU nurse, you may have multiple avenues for salary growth throughout your career:
- Promotions: Advancement to roles such as nurse manager or clinical nurse specialist can offer increased salaries.
- Specialization: Moving into subspecialties like cardiac ICU, neuro ICU, or pediatrics can lead to additional salary benefits.
- Further Education: Pursuing advanced degrees or certifications will often result in higher earning potentials and more job opportunities.