CRNA Salary 2026: What Nurse Anesthesiologists Really Earn

CRNA salary is one of the most searched topics in nursing — and for good reason. Nurse anesthesiologists are among the highest-paid professionals in all of healthcare. But the numbers vary widely depending on practice setting, geography, and how you structure your work. Here is an honest breakdown of what CRNAs actually earn in 2026.

Average CRNA Salary in 2026

According to the AANA 2023 Practice Profile Survey — the most comprehensive data available from the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology — the mean annual income for full-time CRNAs is $214,000. Median income sits around $195,000–$205,000.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a mean annual wage of approximately $203,000 for nurse anesthetists, with the top 10% earning $250,000 or more.

CRNA Salary by Practice Setting

Setting	Typical Range
Hospital employed (W-2)	$160,000 – $220,000
Anesthesia group (1099)	$180,000 – $280,000
Independent contractor (locums)	$220,000 – $400,000+
CRNA-owned practice	$200,000 – $500,000+
Military / VA	$130,000 – $180,000 + benefits
CRNA school faculty	$120,000 – $160,000

CRNA Salary by State

Geography has a significant impact on CRNA compensation. States with higher costs of living or rural healthcare shortages tend to offer higher pay.

State	Mean Annual Salary
Wyoming	$276,000
Montana	$265,000
Oregon	$258,000
Wisconsin	$250,000
California	$245,000
Texas	$215,000
Florida	$198,000
New York	$205,000

W-2 vs. 1099 vs. Locums: What Is the Real Difference?

W-2 employment offers stability, benefits (health insurance, retirement match, malpractice coverage), and predictable income. The tradeoff is lower gross pay and less flexibility.

1099 contractor work typically pays 20–30% more than equivalent W-2 positions because you cover your own taxes, malpractice, and benefits. Many CRNAs find the math works strongly in their favor — particularly those who max tax-advantaged accounts as self-employed individuals.

Locum tenens is the highest-paying model for most CRNAs. You contract through a locums agency or directly with facilities for short-term assignments, typically paid by the hour or day. Rates of $200–$350 per hour are common in high-demand markets. Travel and housing are often covered.

Is the CRNA Salary Worth the Investment?

CRNA school typically costs $50,000–$120,000 in tuition (program-dependent), plus 28–36 months of lost income if you leave your ICU position. Total investment in lost wages and tuition can reach $300,000–$400,000 for some candidates.

With a median starting salary of $170,000–$190,000 and a career ceiling well above $300,000, most CRNAs recover that investment within 3–5 years of graduating. The long-term financial case is strong — particularly for CRNAs who leverage 1099 structures and invest aggressively early in their careers.