I am planning to relocate in Nor California with 4-5y experience outside US and 1y (Critical access) in the US. My question is how much is the base pay there just so I know if I can bargain. Thanks much!

Well it depends where in northern Ca you will be relocating. But many hospitals have unions so your pay will be based on years of experience in a related field (Maybe a small amount of room to negotiate, but not much). That said most hospitals have pay set up that your rate continues to increase with time working for the company. With your experience I’d guesstimate you’d make about $50 something an hour to start, but after 1-2 year(s) working there you’ll receive a pay increase and then another one a year or so later; also most hospitals in Nor cal are given cost of living increases annually or so (usually bargained for you by your union). Beyond that most hospitals also have more pay for higher education and room to elevate your pay by becoming a staff RN III. Good luck CA is by far the best state I’ve worked in as a Nurse.

You can always negotiate. Using a recruiter/headhunter may help