10 openings from $2,364–$3,288/week in Merced, CA — Emergency Room, L&D. Pay by specialty, what it costs to live there.
10 openings from $2,364–$3,288/week right now.
Prices in Merced, CA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) run 2% lower overall.
| Category | Index | vs national |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 98.3 | 2% lower |
| Housing | 78.6 | 21% lower |
| Utilities | 158.3 | 58% higher |
| Groceries and goods | 105.2 | 5% higher |
| Services | 100.3 | at the national average |
Source: BEA Regional Price Parities, 2024, where 100 is the national average.
| Unit | Monthly | Measure |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,040 | HUD Fair Market Rent 2025, utilities included |
| One bedroom | $1,150 | HUD Fair Market Rent 2025, utilities included |
| Two bedroom | $1,410 | HUD Fair Market Rent 2025, utilities included |
| Three bedroom | $1,940 | HUD Fair Market Rent 2025, utilities included |
| Typical asking rent, all sizes | $2,058 | Zillow Observed Rent Index 2025 |
The federal ceiling on tax-free lodging reimbursement in Merced is $113 per night, plus up to $68 a day for meals (GSA, FY2027). GSA names roughly 300 higher-cost destinations individually; Merced is not one, so the national standard rate applies. That is a maximum, not what agencies pay. Look up the exact rate for any ZIP code.
California is not a Nurse Licensure Compact state, so you need a California license to work here even if you hold a multistate license. Check your license with the compact checker.
Average weekly package (base + stipends): $2,771 based on 3 reports.
Weekly package on assignments open now, for specialties with at least three priced postings.
1 hospital in Merced is hiring travel nurses, 10 openings in all. Each page lists the openings by specialty with advertised weekly pay, cost of living and housing nearby.