Nurse practitioners (NP) in California earn the highest average salary in the country for their occupation. Interested in pursuing this high-paying and rewarding career? The first step is finding an NP program that is right for you.
Check out our ranking of the top NP programs in California, how to become an NP in the state, and the average salary in California.
Featured Online NP Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
The Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in California
How to Choose a Nurse Practitioner Program in California
Going back to school to become a nurse practitioner (NP) can be a big decision. There are a few factors to consider to help you feel knowledgeable and prepared.
First, make sure you attend an accredited NP program to meet the licensure requirements. You should also consider whether you want to enroll in an on-campus or online program.
If you choose an online program, check to see if they have any in-person lab requirements. Find out if your program will help you find a preceptor or clinical placement in your area.
Compare the acceptance and graduation rates of each program to determine its difficulty and the percentage of students who drop out before graduation.
Career Outlook for Nurse Practitioners in California
The US Department of Laborprojects 58.6% job growth, or 12,600 job openings, for NPs in California between 2022 and 2032 — much higher than the average 3% job growth for all occupations. These open jobs do not include openings created when NPs leave their positions, change careers, or retire.
California pays NPs the highest average salary in the nation. In 2024, California NPs had an annual median salary of $166,610.
| Location | Employment (2024) | Annual Median Wage (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| California | 20,980 | $166,610 |
| United States | 307,390 | $129,210 |
Salaries for Nurse Practitioners in California
The San Jose and San Francisco metro areas offer some of the highest average salaries for NPs in the state, followed by Sacramento and Los Angeles. These areas pay about $35,000-$65,000 more per year than the state average salary for NPs.
| Metropolitan Areas | Employment (2024) | Annual Average Wage (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | 1,280 | $225,730 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward | 2,960 | $220,330 |
| Napa | 90 | $216,380 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | 210 | $171,150 |
| Vallejo | 190 | $169,990 |
| Salinas | 140 | $168,270 |
| El Centro | 50 | $166,090 |
How to Become a Nurse Practitioner in California
The California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) regulates standards for nurse practitioner licensure and practice. California offers a pathway for NPs to achieve full practice authority after they complete 4,600 hours or three years of full-time clinical practice in the state.
Nurse Practitioner Requirements
To become an NP in California, you must:
Earn a master of science in nursing (MSN) or doctor of nursing practice degree.
Complete an application.
Pay the $500 application fee.
Ask your NP program to submit your official transcripts and complete a form verifying you completed an NP program.
Verify that you have or are applying for a California RN license.
To prescribe medication as an NP, you must complete an additional application and pay $400 to receive an NP furnishing number.
Everything Else You Need to Know About Nurse Practitioner Programs in California
Nurse practitioner programs in CA can cost $1,570-$2,890 per credit hour. This does not include lab or university fees, books, supplies, or transportation fees. You can lower this cost through financial aid such as grants and scholarships or tuition reimbursement programs through your work.
