As the healthcare industry continues to evolve in 2026, Registered Nurse First Assistants (RNFAs) remain in high demand for their critical role in surgical teams. This specialized nursing position offers not only professional fulfillment but also strong earning potential. In this article, we break down the average RNFA salary, key influencing factors, job outlook, and how education and credentials can affect your earnings.
💰 Average RNFA Salary in 2026
In 2026, the average salary for a Registered Nurse First Assistant in the U.S. ranges from $95,000 to $125,000 annually, depending on location, experience, and specialization.
National Average: ~$112,000
Top 10% of Earners: $135,000 – $150,000+
Entry-Level RNFAs: $85,000 – $95,000
Mid-Level (3–6 years experience): $105,000 – $120,000
Senior RNFAs (7+ years): $125,000 – $140,000+
📊 Factors That Influence RNFA Salary
Several elements determine how much an RNFA earns in 2026:
1. Experience Level
New graduates transitioning into an RNFA role earn less, while veteran RNs with OR and assisting experience command higher salaries.
2. Location
RNFAs in metropolitan areas like Los Angeles, Boston, or New York City often earn more due to higher patient demand and cost of living.
3. Employer Type
Hospitals, surgical centers, and private practices vary in pay, with larger health systems often offering better compensation and benefits.
4. Certifications and Education
Advanced training and credentials like CNOR (Certified Nurse Operating Room) or RNFA program certification can significantly boost earning potential.
5. Specialization
RNFAs specializing in cardiovascular, orthopedic, or neurosurgical procedures may earn more due to the complexity of the surgeries.
📈 RNFA Salary vs. Other Roles
For comparison, here’s how RNFA salaries stack up to other well-known or adjacent roles in 2026:
Peloton Instructor: $80,000 – $150,000+ (varies widely by fame and audience)
Test Engineer: $75,000 – $100,000
Senior Lead Navigator (Auxano Health): $90,000 – $110,000
Clinical Nurse Specialist: $100,000 – $120,000
Nurse Practitioner (NP): $105,000 – $130,000
💵 Take-Home Pay for a $103,000 RNFA Salary
If you’re earning $103,000 as an RNFA, your take-home pay after federal taxes, Medicare, Social Security, and average deductions will be approximately:
Monthly Take-Home: $6,000 – $6,500
Annual Take-Home: $72,000 – $78,000
This can vary depending on state tax laws, retirement contributions, and healthcare premiums.
🧠 Required Education & Certifications
To become and remain competitive as an RNFA in 2026, the following qualifications are typically required:
Registered Nurse (RN) License
BSN Degree (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
Perioperative Experience (usually 2+ years)
Completion of RNFA Program
CNOR Certification (preferred or required by many employers)
Some employers also prefer or require ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support) certification.
📅 Job Market Outlook for RNFAs in 2026
The demand for RNFAs is expected to grow steadily through the decade. Factors contributing to the strong job outlook include:
Increased surgical volume due to an aging population
Greater emphasis on specialized, cost-efficient care
A national shortage of surgeons and OR staff, creating more opportunity for RNFAs to assist
RNFAs with leadership ability or multi-specialty experience may also be tapped for surgical team coordination or education roles.
🎁 Benefits and Perks for RNFAs
Beyond salary, RNFAs enjoy a range of professional benefits:
Healthcare and dental insurance
Retirement plans with employer match
Paid continuing education
Flexible or rotating shifts
Sign-on and performance bonuses
Reimbursement for certifications
🧭 Final Thoughts
In 2026, the Registered Nurse First Assistant career path remains both financially rewarding and professionally impactful. With salaries ranging well into six figures and a strong job outlook, it’s a compelling option for experienced RNs looking to expand their scope. Investing in education, credentials, and hands-on surgical experience will significantly enhance your career and earning potential.
If you’re exploring a shift into the RNFA field or looking to level up your current role, now is an excellent time to invest in this specialized, in-demand nursing pathway.