CRNA Salary by State 2025–2026

🏆 Top 5 Highest Paying States

• Massachusetts $292,390
• Alaska $268,970
• New York $256,160
• Vermont $254,790
• Illinois $254,350

📊 Salary by Experience

• Entry Level (0-2 yrs) ~$136,000
• Early Career (2-5 yrs) ~$175,000
• Mid Career (5-10 yrs) ~$210,000
• Experienced (10+ yrs) ~$235,000
• Senior CRNA (20+ yrs) ~$260,000

🏥 Salary by Practice Setting

• Outpatient Surgery Centers $248,000
• Hospitals (General) $231,000
• Specialty Hospitals $228,000
• Physician Offices $215,000
• Teaching / Academic $195,000

💼 Salary by Employment Type

• Travel / Locum CRNA $250-$350/hr
• Independent Contractor $230,000+
• Full-Time Staff $231,700
• Part-Time / PRN $120-$175/hr
• Military CRNA $180,000+

📍 Geographic Location

State scope-of-practice laws are the single biggest driver of CRNA salary variation. States where CRNAs practice independently (opt-out states) — like Illinois, Montana, and Vermont — offer significantly higher compensation due to greater autonomy and responsibility. Rural areas with provider shortages often include relocation bonuses and loan forgiveness programs.

🎓 Education and Credentials

CRNAs with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) command higher salaries, especially in academic and leadership roles. Additional certifications in cardiac, pediatric, or regional anesthesia can increase earning potential by 10-20% above the national average.

⚕ Clinical Specialty

Specialization significantly impacts compensation. Cardiac anesthesia, neurosurgical anesthesia, and pediatric cardiac cases are among the highest-paying. CRNAs with expertise in ultrasound-guided regional nerve blocks, TIVA, or complex airway management are consistently in high demand and command premium rates.

🏛 Practice Model

The anesthesia care team model vs. independent CRNA practice significantly affects compensation. Locum tenens and travel assignments offer the highest hourly rates but may lack benefits. Staff positions offer stability, benefits, and retirement plans that add substantial long-term value to total compensation.