Discover the 10 Highest Paying States for CRNAs in 2024
As a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), your earning potential can vary significantly based on where you choose to practice. In 2024, CRNA compensation trends reveal fascinating insights into the highest paying states for CRNAs, with salaries influenced by factors like demand, cost of living, and employment type. In this blog, we’ll explore the top 10 states with the highest CRNA salaries, break down the factors affecting earnings, and provide actionable tips for securing the most lucrative opportunities.
How are CRNA Salaries Determined?
Several factors contribute to CRNA salary variations across states and job types. Understanding these dynamics can help you make informed career decisions.
- Demand and Supply: CRNAs are in high demand, particularly in rural and underserved areas. These locations often offer higher salaries to attract skilled providers.
- Cost of Living: States with higher living costs typically offer increased compensation, though take-home pay can be affected by local expenses.
- Employment Type: Independent contractor roles, such as 1099 CRNA jobs, usually pay higher hourly rates but lack benefits, while W2 positions offer stability and employer-covered perks.
- Specialization and Experience: CRNAs with expertise in specialized fields like pediatric or cardiovascular anesthesia often command premium pay.
On a national level, CRNAs earn a median annual salary of approximately $217,000, but this figure can exceed $300,000 in top-paying states. Let’s delve into the highest paying CRNA jobs and where to find them in 2024.
Where CRNAs Earn the Most: Top 10 States with the Highest Salaries in 2025
The following states top the charts for CRNA salary potential, based on the 2023 AANA Compensation and Benefits Report:
- California
- Average Salary: $250,000+
- Hourly Rate: $120–$150
- Known for its diverse opportunities and high demand, California offers some of the highest paying CRNA jobs.
- Alaska
- Average Salary: $240,000
- Hourly Rate: $115–$145
- Remote locations and limited supply of CRNAs drive up salaries significantly.
- Connecticut
- Average Salary: $235,000
- Hourly Rate: $110–$140
- High overtime and call pay options enhance total compensation.
- New York
- Average Salary: $230,000
- Hourly Rate: $105–$135
- Offers lucrative urban roles but comes with a high cost of living.
- Texas
- Average Salary: $225,000
- Hourly Rate: $100–$130
- A booming healthcare sector and flexible contracts make Texas a top choice.
- Massachusetts
- Average Salary: $220,000
- Hourly Rate: $105–$125
- High bonuses and consistent demand secure its place on this list.
- Florida
- Average Salary: $215,000
- Hourly Rate: $100–$120
- A popular destination for its mix of metropolitan and rural opportunities.
- Hawaii
- Average Salary: $210,000
- Hourly Rate: $95–$115
- Balances competitive pay with its high cost of living.
- Illinois
- Average Salary: $205,000
- Hourly Rate: $95–$115
- Chicago and other urban hubs offer high-paying roles with added benefits.
- Washington
- Average Salary: $200,000
- Hourly Rate: $90–$110
- Known for flexible scheduling and expanding healthcare needs.
Tips for Landing a High-Paying CRNA Position in These States
To secure top compensation, CRNAs can follow these strategies:
1. Organize Your Credentials
Use tools like Lokum App to manage your resume and credentials in one place. Highlight specializations or certifications that set you apart, such as experience with complex procedures.
2. Network Strategically
Attend industry conferences and connect with hiring managers in high-paying states. Leverage Lokum App’s direct chat feature to engage with organizations actively hiring CRNAs.
3. Negotiate Smartly
Research market rates for CRNA salary per hour in your target location using compensation benchmark data like the 2024 CRNA pay trend report by Lokum. Advocate for additional perks like housing stipends or signing bonuses in addition to base pay.
4. Explore Flexible Job Types
Consider 1099 vs W2 CRNA positions based on your career goals. Independent contractors often earn more, but W2 positions provide benefits like health insurance and retirement plans.
FAQs About CRNA Salaries
How much does a CRNA make a year in top-paying states?
In states like California and Alaska, CRNAs can earn $250,000+ annually.
Are CRNAs in demand?
Absolutely. Demand is especially high in rural areas and specialized fields.
Can a CRNA work both W2 and 1099 jobs?
Yes, many CRNAs combine roles for flexibility and increased earnings.
Do 1099 CRNAs need their own malpractice insurance?
Yes, as independent contractors, they often secure their own coverage.
What’s the difference between 1099 and W2 CRNA jobs?
1099 CRNA jobs offer higher pay but no benefits, while W2 roles provide stability and employer-sponsored benefits.