At AMN Healthcare, we understand that travel opportunities in specialized fields like the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) can be transformative for nursing professionals seeking adventure and growth. With over 40 years of experience as a staffing leader, we proudly support more than 10,000 workers annually, providing them with exceptional job placements that match their skills and aspirations. Our dedicated team offers personalized guidance throughout your career, ensuring you have all the resources and support you need to thrive. Explore our exciting travel PACU nursing positions in beautiful San Diego, where you can enhance your expertise in a vibrant healthcare setting while enjoying the stunning coastal lifestyle that this city has to offer. Join us at AMN Healthcare, where your journey as a nurse takes flight!
Here is the top paying PACU RN job currently available in San Diego, California:
AMN Healthcare currently has 1 Post Anesthesia Care Unit job available in San Diego, with start dates as early as 2/9/26. As of February 2, 2026, the average weekly pay for a PACU Registered Nurse in San Diego was $2,700, with the range in pay between $2,619 and $2,780.
If San Diego isn’t your only option, we also have Post Anesthesia Care Unit jobs nearby in San Marcos (29.5 miles), Irvine (76.1 miles) and Indio (88.5 miles). Or, if you’re looking for cities with the largest variety of Post Anesthesia Care Unit jobs available currently, you should try The Bronx (4 jobs), Boston (4 jobs), Palo Alto (3 jobs), Atlanta (3 jobs), and Lebanon (3 jobs).
If you’re interested, just Apply Now and we’ll match you with a recruiter for more personalized service!
If you’re a PACU Registered Nurse curious about Travel job trends in San Diego, CA, AMN Healthcare has successfully filled 18 similar positions in the area, providing insight into the opportunities you could expect. These previously filled roles offered competitive pay, with an average weekly rate of $2,890 and a range from $1,959 to $3,516 per week, showcasing the strong earning potential for professionals in this field.
Positions were located in key zip codes, including 92123 and 92111. These placements reflect the high demand for skilled PACU Registered Nurses in San Diego’s thriving healthcare landscape. With AMN Healthcare, you can count on access to similar roles tailored to your expertise and career goals. Explore how you can join this network of professionals and take the next step in your career today!
Here’s a look at some of the most recently filled PACU RN positions in San Diego, giving you a glimpse into the competitive pay rates and opportunities available.
As a Registered Nurse specializing in Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) nursing in San Diego, California, you can expect to find a diverse range of work opportunities across a variety of esteemed healthcare facilities, including major hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and specialty clinics. In this vibrant city known for its exceptional healthcare systems, you will play a crucial role in monitoring patients recovering from anesthesia, managing post-operative care, and ensuring safe transitions from the operating room to recovery. San Diego boasts a variety of settings, from cutting-edge academic medical centers like UC San Diego Health to community hospitals and private surgical centers, allowing you to tailor your career path to fit your professional goals and preferences. Whether your passion lies in pediatric care, orthopedic recovery, or general surgical procedures, the dynamic landscape of San Diego’s healthcare industry provides a fulfilling environment for PACU nurses to thrive and make a meaningful impact on patients’ recovery journeys.
As a travel PACU Registered Nurse considering a position in San Diego, California, you’ll not only thrive in a vibrant healthcare environment but also enjoy a coastal paradise with a delightful climate year-round. San Diego boasts an average temperature of 70 degrees, allowing for outdoor activities nearly every day, whether you prefer surfing at La Jolla Beach, hiking in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, or simply taking in the picturesque sunset at Balboa Park. The diverse neighborhoods, such as the upscale ambiance of La Jolla, the lively Gaslamp Quarter, or the family-friendly Mission Valley, all offer charming living options to suit your lifestyle. Beyond work, San Diego’s rich culture shines through its renowned attractions like the San Diego Zoo, USS Midway Museum, and a delicious culinary scene that celebrates fresh seafood and Mexican cuisine. This dynamic city not only provides professional growth but also a fulfilling and adventurous life outside of work, making it an ideal destination for your travel nursing career.
Discover exciting travel Post Anesthesia Care Unit opportunities in beautiful San Diego, where you can enhance your career while enjoying the sun and surf. Take a moment to explore the available positions below and find your perfect fit in this vibrant city!
In today’s competitive healthcare job market, staying informed about local opportunities is crucial. The statistics presented below provide an in-depth look at travel Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) jobs available in San Diego, showcasing key trends and insights that can help you advance your career decisions. By examining average pay trends over the past three months, alongside the comprehensive salary range for the last year, you can gain valuable context regarding your earning potential in this dynamic field.
Additionally, the data highlights the count and types of healthcare facilities actively hiring in San Diego, offering you a clearer picture of where the most promising opportunities lie. Whether you’re actively seeking a new position or simply exploring your options, this information is designed to empower you. Dive into the statistics to better understand the job market and strategically navigate your next steps in the thriving healthcare landscape of San Diego.
Candidates for a Post Anesthesia Care Unit travel job in San Diego typically require recent experience in post-anesthesia care as well as relevant certifications such as ACLS and BLS. Preferred qualifications often include prior travel nursing experience and familiarity with local hospitals’ protocols and procedures.
Post Anesthesia Care Unit travel jobs in San Diego are typically offered by hospitals and specialized surgical centers that perform outpatient and inpatient procedures requiring anesthesia. These facilities provide the necessary recovery environments for patients post-surgery, ensuring they receive appropriate care before being discharged.
For Post Anesthesia Care Unit Travel jobs in San Diego, CA, typical contract durations range from 9-12 weeks and 13 weeks. These flexible contract lengths allow you to choose an assignment that best fits your career goals and lifestyle preferences.
A PACU Registered Nurse should inquire about competitive pay rates, housing stipends, and comprehensive health benefits when seeking a travel job in San Diego. Additionally, support for continuing education and a robust orientation process can be crucial for ensuring both job satisfaction and professional growth.
A travel PACU Registered Nurse may be drawn to San Diego for its beautiful coastal climate, offering an appealing work-life balance while enjoying outdoor activities year-round. Additionally, the city’s diverse healthcare facilities provide opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in a vibrant and culturally rich environment.
Popular neighborhoods for a travel PACU Registered Nurse in San Diego include Hillcrest for its vibrant community and proximity to healthcare facilities, La Jolla for its coastal beauty and upscale living, and North Park, known for its trendy atmosphere and local amenities. Each area offers unique benefits, making it appealing for both work and leisure. Choosing the right neighborhood can enhance the overall experience of living in San Diego.
A travel PACU Registered Nurse should consider the facility’s reputation, including patient care standards and working environment, as these significantly impact job satisfaction and safety. Additionally, it’s essential to evaluate the compensation package, including pay rates, benefits, and any travel stipends offered. Lastly, examining the staffing ratios and support systems in place can inform about potential workload and overall team dynamics.
At AMN Healthcare, we understand that navigating the job market can be challenging, particularly in specialized fields like Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) nursing. To assist you in your career journey, we’ve compiled a list of recent job placements for travel PACU positions in the vibrant city of San Diego, California. This curated selection not only highlights the diverse opportunities available in this high-demand area but also serves as a valuable resource for understanding the types of PACU roles that are typically in demand. Whether you’re seeking your next assignment or simply exploring potential career paths, this information could be instrumental in informing your choices and enhancing your prospects in the world of travel nursing.
One city that shares similarities with San Diego for PACU Registered Nurses is Phoenix, Arizona. Both cities have a thriving healthcare sector and offer a comparable pay range for nurses, with Phoenix often being slightly lower but still competitive. The cost of living in Phoenix is generally more affordable than San Diego, particularly when it comes to housing, where options range from modern apartments to suburban homes. The climate is warm and dry, featuring hot summers and mild winters, attracting those who appreciate outdoor activities that the desert landscape offers, such as hiking and biking. The vibrant city also offers plenty to do, with a burgeoning arts scene, diverse dining options, and numerous sporting events throughout the year.
Another city to consider is Austin, Texas, which appeals to PACU Registered Nurses with its competitive salary offerings and a slightly lower cost of living compared to San Diego. Austin is well-known for its lively music scene, cultural festivals, and food trucks, providing a dynamic lifestyle for residents. The housing market offers diverse options, from urban apartments downtown to homes in nearby suburban neighborhoods. The weather is generally warm, with hot summers and mild winters, much like San Diego, promoting an outdoor lifestyle rich in activities such as boating on Lady Bird Lake and exploring the vast parks around the area.
Orlando, Florida, is another viable option, particularly for PACU Registered Nurses aiming for a similar climate and lifestyle. The average pay for nurses in Orlando is competitive, and the overall cost of living, while higher than the national average, tends to be more manageable than that of San Diego. Housing options vary widely, from upscale urban dwellings near the theme parks to quieter neighborhoods in surrounding areas. Orlando’s subtropical climate involves hot summers and pleasant winters, allowing for outdoor recreational pursuits year-round. Additionally, the city is known for its abundance of attractions, dining, and nightlife, making it an exciting place to live for those who enjoy an active lifestyle.
Seattle, Washington, also presents a compelling choice for PACU Registered Nurses looking for a city with a health-centric job market. Although the cost of living, particularly housing costs, trends higher than in San Diego, nurses often benefit from competitive salaries that can offset expenses. The city is renowned for its rich coffee culture, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to nature, with ample opportunities for hiking and water sports. Though the climate involves more rain, the mild temperatures throughout the year still resonate with those accustomed to coastal living. Seattle offers a unique blend of urban life and outdoor adventure, appealing to those wanting a dynamic environment.
Finally, Denver, Colorado, stands out as an appealing option for PACU Registered Nurses. The city typically offers a similar salary range and rewarding job opportunities within its robust healthcare industry. Although the cost of living has increased in recent years, it remains more affordable than San Diego, particularly in terms of housing within the metro area and nearby suburbs. The climate features four distinct seasons, with sunny days and a good amount of outdoor recreation available year-round, including skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer. Denver’s vibrant lifestyle includes craft breweries, cultural festivals, and a strong community focus, making it a great choice for someone looking for a fulfilling work-life balance.
San Diego’s vibrant healthcare landscape is home to a variety of esteemed facilities that have consistently sought the expertise of Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) Nursing professionals for travel positions. From cutting-edge hospitals to specialized surgical centers, these organizations offer dynamic environments that not only enhance clinical skills but also provide PACU nurses with unique opportunities to experience the coastal beauty and diverse culture of America’s Finest City.