CRNA Salary Guide 2026: What Nurse Anesthetists Earn by State
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are among the highest-compensated advanced practice nurses in the United States. With a doctoral or master's degree, national certification, and the ability to independently administer anesthesia in many states, CRNAs fill a critical role in surgical care — and their compensation reflects it.
National CRNA Salary Overview
The national average CRNA salary in 2026 is approximately $214,000, according to BLS and industry salary surveys. However, actual compensation varies significantly based on state, practice setting, and whether the CRNA works independently or under physician supervision.
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for CRNAs
| Rank | State | Average Salary | Key Factor |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wyoming | $260K+ | Rural demand, few providers |
| 2 | Montana | $255K+ | Independent practice, rural premium |
| 3 | California | $250K+ | High cost of living, high base rates |
| 4 | Connecticut | $245K+ | High density of surgical facilities |
| 5 | Oregon | $240K+ | Full practice authority, no income tax |
| 6 | Washington | $238K+ | No income tax, strong demand |
| 7 | Nevada | $235K+ | No income tax, growing market |
| 8 | New Jersey | $233K+ | Dense surgical market |
| 9 | Wisconsin | $230K+ | Independent practice authority |
| 10 | Massachusetts | $228K+ | Academic medical centers |
Independent Practice vs Supervision
One of the biggest factors in CRNA compensation is whether the state allows independent practice. Currently, 27 states allow CRNAs to practice without physician supervision (full practice authority). In these states, CRNAs often command 10-15% higher salaries because they can bill independently and take on leadership roles.
In states requiring anesthesiologist supervision (the care team model), CRNAs still earn well but may have less autonomy and slightly lower compensation.
CRNA Salary by Setting
| Setting | Salary Range | Pros |
|---|---|---|
| Hospital (employed) | $190K-$230K | Benefits, stability, call coverage |
| Ambulatory Surgery Center | $200K-$240K | No call, regular hours, high volume |
| Private Anesthesia Group | $210K-$260K | Higher pay, partnership potential |
| Locum Tenens | $150-$250/hr | Flexibility, travel, tax advantages |
| Independent Practice | $220K-$300K+ | Full autonomy, highest earning potential |
Career Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects CRNA employment to grow 38% from 2022 to 2032 — much faster than the average for all occupations. Key growth drivers include an aging population requiring more surgeries, the ongoing anesthesiologist shortage, and expanding CRNA scope of practice in more states.
Search anesthesiology and CRNA providers at providers.avahealth.co/specialties/anesthesiology or view open positions at providers.avahealth.co/jobs.