Mental Health Nurse Salary Guide: California

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Average Mental Health Nurse Salary

$81.90/hour

The average salary for a Mental Health Nurse in California is $81.90 per hour. This is 41% higher than the US average of $48.46.

Last updated on September 25, 2026. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Mental Health Nurse salaries in California compared to National Averages

$81.90/hour

California

41% higher than the US average.

$48.46/hour

United States

How does the pay for Mental Health Nurses in California compare to nearby states?

Only Colorado reports pay data for Mental Health Nurses, averaging $54 per hour. Colorado also has the highest ceiling, with max hourly pay reaching $59. For comparison, the California average for Registered Nurses is $82 per hour — Colorado pays 34% less.

	Average Hourly Salary	Max Hourly Salary
Colorado	$54	$59

What are the highest paying Employers and Agencies for Mental Health Nurse jobs in California?

Only Community Medical Centers reports pay data for Mental Health Nurses, averaging $58 per hour. For comparison, the California average for Registered Nurses is $82 per hour — Community Medical Centers pays 30% less.

	Average Hourly Salary	Max Hourly Salary
Community Medical Centers	$58	$58

Last updated on September 25, 2026. Information based on active jobs on Vivian.com and pay data from BLS and around the web.

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