How much do CRNAs make a year?

The national mean annual wage for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists is $214,600 (BLS OEWS, May 2024 — the most recent federal data). The 90th percentile runs past $246,000, and top-paying metros in New York, California, and Wisconsin regularly post base salaries well over $250,000.

What states pay CRNAs the most in 2026?

Wyoming, Montana, New York, Wisconsin, and California consistently lead CRNA pay. Wyoming and Montana rank high largely because of rural-hospital demand premiums; New York and California combine metro demand with strong bargaining agreements. After cost of living, Wisconsin and Montana often net more take-home than New York.

Is becoming a CRNA worth the debt?

For most candidates, yes — but the math is tight. A 36-month DNP program runs roughly $60,000–$200,000 depending on public vs private. At a $214K mean salary and $2,000/month loan payments on a $150K balance, the payback window is typically 5–8 years. Rural and VA positions often include loan repayment that shortens it.

How long does it take to become a CRNA?

Seven to nine years in total from high school. Plan on four years for a BSN, one year as an ICU RN (the minimum — most programs want two to three), and then three years for a DNP in nurse anesthesia. Part-time DNP tracks exist but are rare and add another year or two.

Do CRNAs earn more than anesthesiologists?

No. Anesthesiologists (MD/DO) earn a national mean of about $398,000. CRNAs at $214,600 make roughly 54% of that, with a path that is ~5 years shorter and carries meaningfully less student debt.

Which settings pay CRNAs the most?

Outpatient surgery centers and specialty hospitals pay the highest means, followed by physician offices and general medical hospitals. Government facilities (VA, DoD) pay less base but often add loan repayment, pensions, and lighter call schedules that change the real-dollar math.

Is there a CRNA shortage in 2026?

Yes, in most regions. BLS projects 9% employment growth for nurse anesthetists through 2033 — faster than average — against a flat supply of DNP graduates. That imbalance is why rural and critical-access hospitals have pushed CRNA offers past $300K with signing bonuses.

What CRNAs Actually Earn | NurseWala

CRNAs earn a mean of $214,600 a year (BLS 2024) — but the path takes 7–9 years and $60K–$200K in school debt. Here is what the numbers really look like in