Introduction <p>The objective of this research was to explore how nurses’ perceptions of work-life quality influence their job satisfaction within intensive care settings. The study also aimed to determine the effect of work life quality on job satisfaction of critical care nurses.</p> Methods <p>This investigation utilized a descriptive, cross-sectional design. Participants included 136 intensive care nurses employed across public and private hospitals in İzmir between March and July 2024. Data were gathered through structured face-to-face questionnaires, which incorporated three validated instruments: “The Nurse Information Form”, “The Nursing Work Life Quality Scale”, and “The Minnesota Job Satisfaction Questionnaire”. Statistical analyses were conducted using Pearson’s correlation coefficient, independent samples t-tests, and one-way ANOVA to identify both relational patterns and group-level distinctions.</p> Results <p>The analysis revealed a robust and statistically significant positive association between the quality of work life and job satisfaction (<i>r</i> = 0.717, <i>p</i> &lt; 0.001). Job satisfaction levels differed significantly by gender and parental status (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.05); however, no comparable variation was observed in work-life quality across these factors. Additionally, marital status, educational background, and type of intensive care unit demonstrated no significant influence on either variable (<i>p</i> &gt; 0.05).</p> Conclusion <p>The results clearly illustrate that the perceived quality of work life is a crucial determinant of job satisfaction among nurses in critical care units. Strategic interventions aimed at improving working conditions could substantially enhance motivation, professional commitment, and staff retention, thereby strengthening both individual well-being and institutional effectiveness within healthcare organizations.</p>