May 2025 BLS data
Nurse Midwife salary in California
The median nurse midwife in California earns $203,840/year ($98.00/hr) — 52% above the national median.
Median pay
$203,840/yr
Hourly median
$98.00/hr
State rank
#1 of 39
Employed
870
Nurse Midwife pay percentiles in California
| Percentile | Hourly | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $67.77 | $140,970 |
| 25th percentile | $84.66 | $176,080 |
| Median (50th) | $98.00 | $203,840 |
| 75th percentile | $104.11 | $216,560 |
| 90th percentile | $109.42 | $227,590 |
The spread is large: top-decile nurse midwifes in California out-earn the bottom decile by $41.65/hour — experience, certifications, and setting drive most of that gap.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025.
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What do people in your role actually earn?
Nurse Midwifes in California earn
$67.77–$109.42 /hour
Median $203,840/year · 870 employed
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025
Nearby states compared
Top-paying states for nurse midwifes
- 1. California$203,840/yr
- 2. Hawaii$170,110/yr
- 3. Massachusetts$159,800/yr
- 4. Washington$158,970/yr
- 5. New Jersey$153,970/yr
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Nurse Midwife salaries in every stateFrequently asked questions
How much does a nurse midwife make in California?
The median nurse midwife in California earns $203,840 per year, or $98.00 per hour, according to May 2025 BLS data. Most earn between $140,970 (10th percentile) and $227,590 (90th percentile).
What is a good nurse midwife salary in California?
Top-quartile nurse midwifes in California earn $216,560 or more per year ($104.11/hr). Reaching that range typically comes from experience, certifications, and higher-paying settings.
How does California compare to other states for nurse midwifes?
California ranks #1 of 39 states, with a median 52% above the national median of $134,040.
What do entry-level nurse midwifes earn in California?
Entry-level pay typically falls near the 10th–25th percentile: $140,970–$176,080 per year ($67.77–$84.66/hr) in California.