Question for Cali RN'S

It all depends upon which part of CA you want to work in. In Los Angeles, new grads start just under $30/hr and demand is very high for certain units. Keep in mind that rent for a modest 1 bdrm apt. is $1000/mo. and up.

I am pretty sure here in S.F. the starting salary is at least $40/hr. But housing is expensive and actually everything is expensive here. I'm surprised in LA new grads start at under $30/hr.

J

Since I just moved here, I recommend finding a job before you come. I'm in the Bay Area and come from Maryland I don't think there is a nursing shortage here like on the East Coast. I started applying for jobs in early June and got my first offer late July. I had only been called for one interview!!! One job, one interview. That wasn't cutting it. I started applying like crazy every where just to see what the heck was going on. I have heard new grads have a harder time finding a job then experienced nurses. So I suggest getting a job offer before coming. I was surprised and upset because they aren't begging for nurses here. Take a look at some hospitals career page and you will see. There aren't pages and pages of jobs like in other parts of the country.

I finally did get 4 really good job offers and I chose the best one's. :)

new grads in the bay area average $40/hr, but you are probably aware that san francisco's cost of living is one of the highest in the nation.

pay scale depends on location. are you planning to live in the city, suburbs, or rural part of california? what type of lifestyle do you want?

good luck on the move and i hope you are basking in california's rich and culturally diverse communities!