CRNA Salary by State — 2026 Nurse Anesthetist Pay Data

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists are the highest-paid professionals in nursing, earning an average of $214,200/year nationally in 2026. But CRNA pay varies by over $80,000 depending on your state. Here's the full breakdown.

Highest-Paying States for CRNAs

California leads at $258,000/year, followed by New York ($247K) and Oregon ($242K). These states also have the highest cost of living. For the best purchasing power, consider states like Wyoming, North Dakota, and Montana — where CRNA salaries of $195K–$210K go much further.

CRNA Salary vs. Other Advanced Practice Nurses

CRNAs earn nearly double what most NPs make ($214K vs. $126K) and significantly more than CNMs ($121K) and CNSs ($108K). The investment in CRNA education is higher, but the salary premium justifies it financially.

How Experience Affects CRNA Pay

New CRNAs start at $175,000–$195,000. After 5 years, salaries climb to $210,000–$240,000. CRNAs with 10+ years of experience and subspecialty skills (cardiac, pediatric, regional) can earn $250,000–$300,000+.

CRNA Job Outlook and Demand in 2026

The BLS projects 40% growth in CRNA employment through 2032 — far faster than average. Demand is driven by the physician anesthesiologist shortage, expanding scope of practice in many states, and the cost advantage of CRNA-led anesthesia care.

How to Become a CRNA

The path: BSN → 1–2 years ICU experience (most programs require CCRN) → 3-year DNP/DNAP program → national certification exam (NCE). Total cost of a CRNA program is $80,000–$180,000, with starting salaries that make the investment worthwhile within 2–3 years.