From Cali to Florida

Nurses General Nursing

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Hi All, I am a BSN, RN working here in California. In as much as I would really want to stay and dream about my golden years in this state, it is just so impossible due to high cost of living. I am considering moving to Florida and I need some inputs if this will be a good decision. Currently receiving $50+/hr with 5 years work experience. HELP! I really need some advice, this is a major decision I have to make for our family. Thank you everyone!

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Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

Only you and your family can make this decision. There are lots of factors that we can't possibly know — where in Florida? How many kids do you have? Are there good schools where you are going? What does your spouse/significant other do, and can they find employment? Can you find desirable employment?

These are rhetorical questions, but you get the idea. Wherever you go, be prepared for a pretty dramatic pay cut compared to California wages.

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Specializes in ICU.

Agree with Pixie- it will be a lot lower of a salary. That said, depending on the area you choose to live, the cost of living can be much more manageable. I own a home that I purchased for less than $200k, and live very comfortably on my Florida salary. It can be done.

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Thank you. 2 kids in tow, hubby is a CNA. Considering Jacksonville Fl. Good schools, some family members in the area too. I have prepared myself for a big pay cut, I guess I am having the fear of the unknown. Thank you so much for the input, may need more time to think about making this decision.

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Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.
Thank you. 2 kids in tow, hubby is a CNA. Considering Jacksonville Fl. Good schools, some family members in the area too. I have prepared myself for a big pay cut, I guess I am having the fear of the unknown. Thank you so much for the input, may need more time to think about making this decision.

A lot of my family is in Jax, great area. Good luck!!

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Hi Ella, I am considering Jacksonville, FL. I work hospice/homehealth. I love what I do. I wish I could get an idea how much they pay hourly in that area. Anyways, your reply is very assuring, made me want to move in time. :) "it can be done" is the bomb! Thanks again . ;)

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.
I wish I could get an idea how much they pay hourly in that area.
Expect to be paid in the mid-$20s per hour with your five years of experience.

Yep, the pay reduction will be steep compared to the $50+ hourly you currently get in California. After all, Florida is where people are paid with sunshine.

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Specializes in ICU.

I have a co-worker who recently moved from Jacksonville- I'll ask them tonight what the salaries are like up there and will let you know.

I live in a different area of Florida, and I'm PRN now and make just under $40 an hour on nights. Before I went PRN I was making in the mid-high $20 range/hour before differentials, but that was only with a little over a year of experience.

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Thank you soooo very much , really really appreciate it . Looking forward to hear from you again .

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Specializes in Urgent Care, Oncology.

I don't think it is unreasonable to expect $28-$30/hour in Jacksonville with 5 years experience.

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Specializes in ICU.

My coworker said the same- high 20s, low 30s per hour with 5 years experience. But then again, that's for acute care. Hope that helps though!

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Thank you! Now I have the idea. :)

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