Nurse Anesthetist Salary Guide 2025: $236,590 Median, How to Become a CRNA
Nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) are among the highest-paid nursing professionals, with a national median salary of $236,590 per year, according to the latest BLS data. The mean annual wage is $248,320, which breaks down to about $114 per hour. For a role that requires advanced education and certification, the payoff is substantial: even entry-level CRNAs earn around $155,250, while experienced practitioners in the top 10% can make over $339,500.
How much Nurse Anesthetists earn
The median annual wage for nurse anesthetists is $236,590, based on May 2024 BLS estimates. That’s more than double the median for all registered nurses ($86,070) and far above the average for all occupations ($65,470). The typical salary range spreads from $155,250 at the 10th percentile to $339,500 at the 90th percentile. Pay varies significantly by setting: those working in outpatient care centers tend to earn the highest averages, while hospitals and physician offices pay close to the median.
- Median annual wage: $236,590 | Mean: $248,320 | Mean hourly: $114.20
- 10th percentile: $155,250 | 90th percentile: $339,500
- Total U.S. employment: 51,840 nurse anesthetists
Pay by state
Where you practice matters enormously for CRNA earnings. Alaska tops the list with an average annual wage of $341,210, followed by New York ($321,030), Massachusetts ($295,550), California ($292,410), and New Jersey ($291,350). On the lower end, Oklahoma averages $156,830, New Mexico $129,370, and Utah $126,600. The gap between the highest- and lowest-paying states is more than $200,000 per year. Keep in mind these are state-level averages; within each state, metropolitan and rural areas can differ widely.
How to become a Nurse Anesthetist
Becoming a CRNA is a rigorous process that typically takes 7–8 years after high school. You must first earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and become a registered nurse (RN), then gain at least one year of critical care experience—often in an ICU. After that, you apply to an accredited nurse anesthesia program, which awards either a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or a DNAP (Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice). These programs last 3–4 years and include clinical training in administering anesthesia under supervision. Upon graduation, you must pass the National Certification Examination (NCE) to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. Most states require CRNAs to hold an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) license.
- Step 1: Earn a BSN and become an RN (4 years)
- Step 2: Work at least 1 year in an ICU setting
- Step 3: Complete an accredited nurse anesthesia program (3–4 years, DNP or DNAP)
- Step 4: Pass the National Certification Examination
- Step 5: Obtain state licensure as an APRN
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment for nurse anesthetists will grow 8.6% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 2,700 job openings each year over the decade, mostly due to growth and the need to replace workers who retire or change fields. An aging population and expanded healthcare access are driving demand for anesthesia services, especially in hospitals and surgical centers. With only about 52,000 CRNAs nationwide, competition can be stiff for coveted positions, but the outlook remains strong for those who complete the demanding training.
Frequently asked questions
How much do nurse anesthetists make a year?
The national median annual wage for nurse anesthetists is $236,590, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean wage is $248,320, and pay ranges from about $155,250 (10th percentile) to $339,500 (90th percentile).
How long does it take to become a CRNA?
Typically 7–8 years after high school: 4 years for a BSN and RN licensure, at least 1 year of critical care experience, then 3–4 years in a nurse anesthesia doctoral program. Total time may be longer if you need prerequisite coursework.
What states pay nurse anesthetists the most?
Alaska leads with an average annual wage of $341,210, followed by New York ($321,030), Massachusetts ($295,550), California ($292,410), and New Jersey ($291,350). Lower-paying states include Oklahoma ($156,830), New Mexico ($129,370), and Utah ($126,600).
Is the demand for CRNAs growing?
Yes. The BLS forecasts 8.6% growth for nurse anesthetists from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations, adding about 2,700 openings per year.
What is the difference between a nurse anesthetist and an anesthesiologist?
Nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) are advanced practice registered nurses who administer anesthesia independently or in collaboration with other providers. Anesthesiologists are medical doctors (MD or DO) who have completed medical school and an anesthesiology residency. Both can provide similar anesthesia services, but training pathways and scope of practice differ.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Nurse Anesthetists data.