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The nursing profession continues to evolve, and with it, the opportunities for high-paying positions. If you’re contemplating a career in nursing or exploring your job options, you may want to consider these lucrative roles that are in high demand in 2026.
In this article, we will explore ten of the best and highest-paid nursing jobs, along with the necessary nursing degrees and their typical salary ranges.
Key Takeaways
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An advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) certification with a master of science in nursing opens doors to many high-paying nursing opportunities.
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Numerous high-paying nursing positions require only a registered nurse (RN) certification along with a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
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Certified registered nurse anesthetists and nurse practitioners rank among the highest earners in the nursing field.
The 10 Highest-Paid Nursing Jobs
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Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
Average Yearly Salary: $195,600
Certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) are among the highest-paid nursing professionals due to their advanced education and skill set. CRNAs administer anesthesia and monitor patients during surgical procedures, requiring extensive knowledge of medications and patient care.
Where CRNAs Work: CRNAs can be found in hospitals, emergency rooms, and surgical centers, including military settings. Those in high-pressure environments, such as emergency rooms, often face more intense workloads than those in outpatient settings.
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Average Yearly Salary: $120,600
Nurse practitioners (NPs) possess advanced degrees that allow them to diagnose and treat patients, as well as prescribe medications. This role provides more autonomy than traditional RN positions and is highly sought after, with job growth projected at 40% from 2021 to 2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Where NPs Work: NPs can work in diverse settings, including hospitals, private practices, and community health centers. Many also engage in humanitarian efforts to improve healthcare access in underserved areas.
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Average Yearly Salary: $120,000
ICU nurses specialize in caring for critically ill patients, making them essential in healthcare delivery. The demand for ICU nurses continues to rise, with an expected job growth of 6% through 2031.
Where ICU Nurses Work: ICU nurses primarily work in hospitals equipped with intensive care units, which may focus on various specialties like cardiac or pediatric care.
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Average Yearly Salary: $118,500
Neonatal ICU nurses care for premature and critically ill infants, requiring specialized training and a compassionate approach. This role is both challenging and rewarding.
Where Neonatal Nurses Work: Most neonatal nurses are employed in hospitals’ NICUs, while some may provide follow-up care for infants and families post-discharge.
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Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Average Yearly Salary: $114,000
Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) specialize in mental health care, providing therapy and medication management for patients with mental health disorders and substance abuse issues.
Where PMHNPs Work: PMHNPs typically work in psychiatric facilities, hospitals, and private practices, making a significant impact on patient mental health outcomes.
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Average Yearly Salary: $112,800
Certified nurse midwives (CNMs) provide care to women during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. They also focus on gynecological health and preventative care.
Where CNMs Work: CNMs work in hospitals, birthing centers, and clinics, often collaborating closely with obstetricians to ensure comprehensive care.
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Average Yearly Salary: $112,000
Clinical nurse specialists (CNS) lead nursing teams and focus on improving patient care protocols and nursing practices. They hold advanced degrees and often serve in management roles.
Where CNSs Work: CNSs can be found in hospitals, nursing homes, and various healthcare settings, contributing to policy development and quality improvement initiatives.
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Pain Management Nurse
Average Yearly Salary: $110,400
Pain management nurses assist patients in managing chronic and acute pain conditions, requiring a combination of clinical skills and specialized training.
Where Pain Management Nurses Work: These nurses typically work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and rehabilitation centers, often collaborating with other healthcare professionals.
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Average Yearly Salary: $98,000
Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) provide comprehensive healthcare for families, focusing on preventive care and common illnesses.
Where FNPs Work: FNPs typically work in community health centers, private practices, and healthcare systems, often collaborating with physicians to ensure quality care.
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Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
Average Yearly Salary: $90,400
Gerontological nurse practitioners focus on the healthcare needs of the elderly population, a field that is rapidly expanding with the aging population.
Where Gerontological NPs Work: They can be found in hospitals, nursing homes, and hospice care facilities, providing essential care and support for older adults.
Types of Nursing Degrees
It’s evident that higher education correlates with better opportunities for obtaining top-paying nursing jobs.
Nursing degrees vary widely in duration: a certified nursing assistant certificate can be completed in as little as four to 12 weeks, while a doctor of nursing practice may require an additional two years beyond a bachelor’s degree.
Here’s a list of nursing degrees and their average starting salaries:
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Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) – $27,000 – $39,000
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Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse (LPN/LVN) – $34,000 – $58,000
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Registered Nurse (RN) with Associate Degree in Nursing – $49,000 – $75,000
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Registered Nurse (RN) with Bachelor of Science in Nursing – $54,000 – $84,250
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Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with Master of Science in Nursing – $82,000 – $110,000
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Doctor of Nursing Practice or Ph.D. in Nursing – $104,500 – $125,500
Keep in mind that salaries can vary based on location, specialization, and experience. Additional certifications and degrees can also enhance earning potential over time.
Experience plays a significant role in salary as well. Newly graduated nurses typically earn less than their seasoned counterparts, who command higher salaries due to their expertise and value in patient care.
Highest-Paid Nursing Jobs FAQ
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Where are the highest-paid nursing jobs located?
The highest-paid nursing jobs are in California. Registered nurses in California earn an average of $133,340 annually, while nurse practitioners make an average of $158,130, the highest in the nation.
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Which type of nurse earns the most?
Certified registered nurse anesthetists have the highest earning potential, averaging $195,600 annually.
References
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U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Registered Nurses
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U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Nurse Practitioners
In conclusion, the nursing field offers various lucrative career paths for those with the right education and skills. As the demand for healthcare professionals continues to grow, pursuing a career in nursing not only provides financial stability but also the opportunity to make a significant impact on patient lives. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, these high-paying nursing roles are worth considering in today’s dynamic healthcare landscape.
- High Paying Jobs
- Highest Paying Nursing Jobs
- Highest Paying Trade Jobs
- Part Time Jobs That Pay Well
- High Paying Entry Level Jobs
- Highest Paying Jobs For Women
- What Are C-Level Jobs?
- Best Jobs For College Students
- Skilled Trade Jobs In Demand
- High Paying Medical Jobs With Little Schooling
- Best Second Jobs
- Easy Jobs That Pay Well
- Outdoor Jobs That Pay Well
- Low Stress Jobs That Pay Well
- High Paying Jobs Nobody Wants
- Best Jobs For The Future
- Best Jobs For The Next 10 Years
Author
Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
