How Much Do CRNAs Make? Complete 2026 Salary Guide
Quick Facts
- National median CRNA salary: $223,210/year (BLS, May 2024) | Current advertised avg: $260,000 (ZipRecruiter, 2026)
- National mean salary: $231,700/year | Market hourly rate: ~$200/hr (permanent, 2026)
- Top-paying state: Massachusetts at $292,390 (BLS, May 2024)
- Top-paying metro: Albany, NY at $320,630 (U.S. News/BLS, 2024)
- Highest-paying setting: Outpatient care centers at $263,960
- Top earners (90th pct): $394,500 (ZipRecruiter, 2026)
- Job growth: 38% projected (2022–2032) — nearly 10x the national average
- Total employed: 47,810 CRNAs nationwide
If you're researching how much CRNAs make, you're looking at one of the highest-paying careers in all of healthcare. CRNAs earn a national median of $223,210 per year according to the BLS (May 2024), while current job postings average $260,000 (ZipRecruiter, 2026). Top earners in high-demand states can exceed $330,000–$400,000 (BagMask, 2025). That's more than double the average registered nurse salary and well above most advanced practice nursing roles.
But the CRNA salary story goes far beyond a single number. Your actual earning potential depends on where you live, where you work, how experienced you are, and what type of practice setting you choose. This definitive guide covers every angle of nurse anesthetist pay in 2026, from entry-level starting salaries to the lucrative locum tenens market.
CRNA Salary: The National Picture
📊 Salary Data Sources & Freshness This guide cites data from multiple sources: the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, May 2024 — latest government data), ZipRecruiter (2026 advertised salaries), Glassdoor, AMN Healthcare, SalaryDr, and other industry reports. Government salary surveys have a 12–18 month reporting lag. Current advertised salaries on job boards typically reflect real-time market conditions and may be higher. Anesthesia provider compensation has risen steadily over the past five years.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides the most comprehensive look at CRNA compensation across the country. Here's the complete percentile breakdown:
| Percentile | Annual Salary (BLS, May 2024) | ZipRecruiter (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| 25th | $187,110 | $190,500 |
| 50th (Median) | $223,210 | $234,300 |
| 75th | $239,200 | $348,000 |
| 90th (Top Earners) | $269,600+ | $394,500 |
| Mean (Average) | $231,700 | $260,000 |
(Sources: BLS, May 2024; ZipRecruiter, May 2026)
The BLS data shows the government-verified salary range, while ZipRecruiter reflects current advertised positions — which tend to be higher due to real-time market demand. The spread illustrates just how much geography, experience, and practice setting affect your earnings. Top earners on job boards can exceed $394,500 annually.
How CRNA Salary Compares to Other Nursing Roles
To truly appreciate the CRNA salary premium, consider how it stacks up against related healthcare positions:
| Role | Median Salary | Difference vs. CRNA |
|---|---|---|
| CRNA | $223,210 | — |
| Nurse Practitioner (NP) | $126,260 | CRNAs earn $96,950 more |
| Physician Assistant (PA) | $130,020 | CRNAs earn $93,190 more |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | $93,600 | CRNAs earn $129,610 more |
(Source: BLS, May 2024)
CRNAs earn $129,610 more per year than the average RN — a compelling return on the additional education investment required to enter the profession. The jump from RN to CRNA represents one of the most financially rewarding career transitions in healthcare. For a detailed comparison with anesthesiologists, see our CRNA vs Anesthesiologist Salary guide.
CRNA Salary by Experience Level
Your years of experience significantly impact your earning potential as a CRNA.
New Graduate / Entry-Level (0–2 years)
- Expected salary: $220,000–$260,000 — new grads typically earn at or near the national average from year one
- Key factors: Geographic location, willingness to relocate, negotiation skills
- Tip: Many employers offer sign-on bonuses of $10,000–$30,000+ for new graduates willing to commit to rural or underserved areas
New grad CRNAs should know that the first offer isn't always the best offer. Check out our complete guide on entry-level CRNA salary and negotiation strategies for detailed advice.
Early Career (3–5 years)
- Expected salary: $210,000–$240,000
- Key factors: Specialty skills development, call pay, overtime opportunities
- Experience in high-demand subspecialties like cardiac or pediatric anesthesia can accelerate salary growth
Mid-Career (6–10 years)
- Expected salary: $240,000–$270,000
- Key factors: Leadership roles, specialty certifications, practice setting optimization
- Many CRNAs at this stage transition to higher-paying outpatient settings or pursue locum tenens work for premium rates
Experienced (10+ years)
- Expected salary: $265,000–$300,000+
- Key factors: Reputation, subspecialty expertise, leadership positions, practice ownership
- Chief CRNAs and department directors often command top-of-scale compensation plus administrative stipends
CRNA Salary by Practice Setting
Where you work affects your paycheck as much as — or more than — where you live. The BLS breaks down CRNA compensation by practice setting:
| Practice Setting | Average Annual Salary | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Outpatient Care Centers | $263,960 | BLS |
| Specialty Hospitals | $238,200 | BLS |
| General Medical/Surgical Hospitals | $234,250 | BLS, May 2024 |
| Offices of Physicians | $214,890 | BLS, May 2024 |
| Offices of Other Health Practitioners | $204,680 | BLS |
(Source: BLS, May 2024)
The takeaway is clear: outpatient care centers pay CRNAs an average of $263,960 — significantly more than hospital-based positions at $234,250 (BLS, May 2024). The shift toward outpatient surgery has been a significant financial boon for CRNAs, and this trend shows no signs of slowing.
Why Outpatient Settings Pay More
Several factors drive the outpatient premium:
- Higher case volume efficiency — more procedures per day
- Lower overhead compared to hospital systems
- Revenue per case is often higher in specialized surgical centers
- CRNAs often work independently in outpatient settings, increasing their value
- Competitive recruiting — outpatient centers compete aggressively with hospitals for talent
CRNA Salary by State: Top 10
Your geographic location is one of the single largest factors in your CRNA salary. Here are the top 10 highest-paying states:
| Rank | State | Avg Annual Salary (BLS, May 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Massachusetts | $292,390 |
| 2 | Washington | $276,110 |
| 3 | Vermont | $272,180 |
| 4 | Alaska | $268,970 |
| 5 | New Jersey | $268,310 |
| 6 | Illinois | $281,240* |
| 7 | Montana | $256,460* |
| 8 | New York | $256,160* |
| 9 | Wyoming | $246,590* |
| 10 | California | $245,920* |
*BLS May 2023 data; BLS May 2024 data not yet available for these states. Advertised salaries on job boards are typically 15–40% higher (ZipRecruiter, 2026).
For a deep dive into each of these states — including cost-of-living adjustments, metro-level data, and job links — read our complete Top 10 Highest-Paying States for CRNAs guide.
States with Highest CRNA Employment
High-paying states don't always have the most jobs. If volume of opportunity is your priority, consider these states:
| State | CRNAs Employed | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | 5,390 | $208,450 |
| Florida | 3,740 | $191,120 |
| Ohio | 3,150 | $198,560 |
| Tennessee | 2,950 | $195,830 |
| Pennsylvania | 2,900 | $204,180 |
(Source: BLS, May 2024)
These states offer abundant opportunities even if their average salaries fall slightly below the top 10. The combination of high employment volume and lower cost of living can make states like Texas and Tennessee excellent choices for CRNAs seeking both opportunity and financial value.
Top-Paying Metro Areas for CRNAs
Metro-level data can reveal salary pockets that state averages mask:
| Metro Area | Average Annual Salary | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Albany, NY | $320,630 | U.S. News/BLS, 2024 |
| Morgantown, WV | $301,980 | U.S. News/BLS, 2024 |
| Springfield, MA | $297,460 | U.S. News/BLS, 2024 |
| Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, MA-NH | $294,460 | BLS, May 2024 |
| San Diego-Carlsbad, CA | $294,180 | BLS |
| Milwaukee, WI | $290,200 | U.S. News/BLS, 2024 |
| Carbondale-Marion, IL | $286,920 | BLS |
(Sources: U.S. News/BLS, 2024; BLS May 2024)
The Albany, NY metro leads the entire nation at $320,630 — nearly $100,000 above the national median. Browse CRNA jobs in California to see current opportunities in this top-paying market.
Factors That Affect Your CRNA Salary
1. Full Practice Authority vs. Restricted States
States where CRNAs have full practice authority (FPA) — meaning they can practice without physician supervision requirements — often offer strong compensation because CRNAs deliver greater operational value to facilities.
2. Call and Overtime Pay
Many CRNAs significantly boost their base salary through call pay and overtime. Weekend, holiday, and overnight call can add $20,000–$50,000+ annually to your income.
3. Specialty Skills
CRNAs with expertise in high-demand areas command premium pay:
- Cardiac anesthesia: +10–15% above general rates
- Pediatric anesthesia: +5–10%
- Regional anesthesia / nerve blocks: Increasingly valuable in outpatient settings
- Obstetric anesthesia: Especially valuable in rural areas
4. Certifications and Education
While the DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) is becoming the standard entry degree, CRNAs with additional certifications in pain management, critical care, or subspecialty areas may leverage these for higher compensation.
5. Negotiation
Many CRNAs leave money on the table by accepting the first offer. Key negotiation levers include:
- Sign-on bonuses ($10,000–$50,000)
- Student loan repayment (especially in underserved areas)
- Relocation packages
- CME allowance and paid time off
- Scheduling flexibility (compressed workweeks)
CRNA Salary: Locum Tenens vs. Permanent
One of the most significant salary decisions a CRNA can make is whether to pursue locum tenens (temporary) or permanent employment.
| Factor | Locum Tenens | Permanent |
|---|---|---|
| Hourly rate | $200–$325+/hr | ~$200/hr (market rate, 2026) |
| Annual gross | $400,000–$550,000+ | $223,210 (median) |
| Benefits | Self-funded | Employer-provided ($30K–$50K+ value) |
| Tax status | Often 1099 | W-2 |
| Flexibility | High | Moderate |
| Job security | Contract-based | Stable |
Locum CRNAs can earn substantially more in gross income, but the comparison requires careful analysis of 1099 vs W-2 implications, self-employment taxes, and the cost of self-funded benefits. Read our detailed locum vs permanent salary comparison for a full breakdown.
CRNA Job Growth and Future Outlook
The financial future for CRNAs is exceptionally promising. The BLS projects 38% job growth from 2022 to 2032 — one of the fastest growth rates of any occupation in the country.
Key growth drivers include:
- Aging population: More Americans over 65 means more surgical procedures
- Expansion of outpatient surgery: Higher-paying settings are growing fastest
- Rural healthcare needs: Many communities rely exclusively on CRNAs for anesthesia services
- Cost-effectiveness: Healthcare systems increasingly recognize CRNAs as high-quality, cost-effective anesthesia providers
- Practice authority expansion: More states are granting full practice authority
This growth translates to sustained salary pressure — in the CRNA's favor. With 47,810 CRNAs currently employed and demand accelerating, the profession offers both job security and upward salary mobility for years to come.
How to Become a CRNA
The path to a CRNA career requires dedication, but the financial rewards are substantial. Here's the overview:
- Earn a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) — 4 years
- Gain ICU experience as an RN — 1–3 years minimum
- Complete a nurse anesthesia graduate program (DNP or DNAP) — 3–4 years
- Pass the NCE (National Certification Examination)
- Begin practicing — average first-year salary: $220,000–$260,000
For the complete roadmap, read our guide on how to become a CRNA.
Related Reading
- Top 10 Highest-Paying States for CRNAs in 2026
- Entry-Level CRNA Salary: What New Grads Actually Earn
- CRNA vs Anesthesiologist Salary Comparison
- CRNA vs Anesthesiologist: Career Comparison
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a CRNA make per year?
The national median CRNA salary is $223,210 per year (BLS, May 2024), with current advertised positions averaging $260,000 (ZipRecruiter, 2026). Top earners exceed $394,500 (ZipRecruiter 90th percentile). Actual salaries vary significantly depending on location, experience, and practice setting.
How much do CRNAs make per hour?
Permanent CRNAs command approximately $200/hr in today's market (2026). Locum tenens CRNAs can earn $200–$325+ per hour. The BLS reports a national median annual salary of $223,210 (May 2024), and current advertised positions average $260,000 (ZipRecruiter, 2026).
Do CRNAs make more than nurse practitioners?
Yes, significantly. CRNAs earn a median salary of $223,210 compared to $126,260 for nurse practitioners — a difference of $96,950 per year. CRNAs are the highest-paid advanced practice nursing specialty (Source: BLS, May 2024).
What type of CRNA makes the most money?
CRNAs working in outpatient care centers earn the highest average salary at $263,960 (BLS). Locum tenens CRNAs can earn even more, with gross annual incomes of $400,000–$550,000+. CRNAs in top-paying states like Massachusetts ($292,390, BLS 2024) and those in high-demand metros like Albany, NY ($320,630) also command premium compensation. Subspecialty expertise in cardiac or pediatric anesthesia further boosts earnings.
Is becoming a CRNA worth it financially?
CRNAs earn $129,610 more per year than the average RN ($93,600). Even accounting for the additional 3–4 years of graduate education and associated costs ($100,000–$200,000 for CRNA programs), most CRNAs recoup their educational investment within 2–3 years of practice and enjoy significantly higher lifetime earnings.
Practicing anesthesiologist with experience across MD-only, medical supervision of CRNAs, and medical direction of CAAs. Founded AnesthesiaJobs.com to help anesthesia professionals find the best job for their personal and professional life.
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