In 2026, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) continue to be among the highest-paid professionals in the nursing field. As critical members of the healthcare team, nurse anesthetists administer anesthesia and provide care before, during, and after surgical procedures. If you’re considering this career or want to understand your earning potential, this guide covers everything—from salary breakdowns to career outlook.
What Is the Average Nurse Anesthetist Salary in 2026?
As of 2026, the average salary for a nurse anesthetist in the U.S. is approximately $210,000 per year, or about $101 per hour. This figure can vary based on several factors, including location, years of experience, employer type, and education level.
Key Factors That Influence Nurse Anesthetist Salary
Several elements can significantly impact how much a CRNA earns:
Experience
Entry-Level (0–2 years): $150,000–$170,000
Mid-Level (3–5 years): $180,000–$200,000
Experienced (6–10 years): $200,000–$220,000
Senior-Level (10+ years): $230,000+
Location
States like California, New York, and Texas offer higher salaries due to demand and cost of living. Rural areas may also offer premiums to attract CRNAs.Type of Facility
CRNAs working in outpatient surgical centers or private practices may earn more than those in hospitals or academic institutions.Specialization
Subspecialties like pediatric or cardiac anesthesia may command higher salaries.Shift and On-Call Pay
Working nights, weekends, or being on-call often results in additional compensation.
Take-Home Pay for a $210K Salary
A $210,000 annual salary breaks down approximately as follows (subject to tax rates and location):
Federal Income Tax: ~$45,000–$55,000
State Tax (varies): ~$0–$15,000
Social Security & Medicare: ~$10,000
Net Take-Home Pay: ~$130,000–$150,000/year
Monthly Take-Home: ~$10,800–$12,500/month
These estimates can vary widely based on filing status, deductions, and benefits.
Job Market Trends for CRNAs in 2026
The job outlook for nurse anesthetists remains extremely positive:
High Demand: Aging populations and a continued shortage of anesthesiologists increase reliance on CRNAs.
Rural and Underserved Areas: These regions are offering incentives such as signing bonuses and relocation packages.
Telehealth Integration: While anesthesia can’t be performed remotely, tele-prep and post-op evaluations are emerging roles.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects CRNA jobs to grow by 12% through 2032, much faster than average for all occupations.
Required Education and Certifications
To become a CRNA in 2026, the following are required:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure
Minimum 1 Year ICU/ER Experience
Doctor of Nursing Practice – Anesthesia (DNP or DNAP)
As of 2026, all new CRNAs must hold a doctorate-level degree.
Passing the National Certification Exam (NCE)
Continuing education and specialty certifications can also boost earning potential.
Additional Benefits
In addition to a competitive salary, nurse anesthetists often receive:
Comprehensive Health Insurance
Paid Time Off (PTO)
Retirement Plans (401k) with Matching
Malpractice Insurance
Tuition Reimbursement or Loan Repayment
Professional Development Allowances
Final Thoughts
A career as a nurse anesthetist in 2026 offers not only high earning potential but also long-term stability, professional growth, and job satisfaction. With the right education and experience, CRNAs are well-positioned to enjoy one of the most rewarding paths in modern healthcare.