For Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), career mobility and flexibility are key benefits of the profession. As demand for anesthesia providers continues to grow across the U.S., knowing where to practice can significantly impact your salary, autonomy, job satisfaction, and quality of life. So, where should CRNAs look in 2025?

At ICON Anesthesia, we work closely with CRNAs to match them with high-value opportunities. Based on recent trends in compensation, demand, legislation, and lifestyle, here are the top states offering exceptional opportunities for CRNA jobs in 2025.

1. Texas – High Pay Meets High Demand

The Lone Star State continues to shine for CRNAs. Texas is a top pick with a rapidly growing population, booming healthcare infrastructure, and multiple cities with CRNA shortages.

• Median salary: ~$216,449
• Highlights: No state income tax, numerous urban and rural opportunities, expanding surgical centers.
• Bonus: Texas allows CRNAs to practice independently in certain settings, which boosts job satisfaction and flexibility.

2. Florida – Sunshine & Solid Salaries

Thanks to its blend of retirement communities, surgical centers, and hospitals, Florida remains a CRNA magnet.

• Median salary: ~$187,158
• Highlights: High volume of locum opportunities, no state income tax, year-round warm weather.
• Scope of practice: While some supervision is required, the sheer volume of need makes Florida competitive.

3. Iowa – Full Scope, Full Autonomy

If autonomy is your top priority, Iowa leads the pack. As one of the few states where CRNAs have full practice authority, it’s a hidden gem.

• Median salary: ~$258,682
• Highlights: Full scope of practice, rural hospital demand, and a low cost of living.
• ICON tip: Many facilities here are eager to welcome CRNAs who want to lead anesthesia care independently.

4. Colorado – Balanced Living, Expanding Demand

Colorado offers a rare combination of competitive pay and an exceptional lifestyle. With hospitals and surgical centers expanding in cities like Denver and Colorado Springs, it’s a promising state for CRNAs seeking both career growth and outdoor adventure.

• Median salary: ~$231,013
• Highlights: Recreational lifestyle, growing healthcare systems, favorable tax structure.
• Note: Independent practice is permitted with some restrictions depending on the facility.

5. North Carolina – Growth and Flexibility

North Carolina has quietly become a CRNA haven. The blend of growing metropolitan centers and underserved rural hospitals makes it a strategic choice.

• Median salary: ~$203,280
• Highlights: Diverse job settings, lower cost of living than neighboring states, solid career growth.
• Scope: Collaborative but with increasing pushes for independence and expanded privileges.

Other Notables to Watch in 2025

Massachusetts:

With some of the country’s top-ranked hospitals and a strong emphasis on academic medicine, Massachusetts offers CRNAs access to cutting-edge healthcare environments.

• Median salary: ~$271,601
• Highlights:
  • Access to major teaching hospitals and research institutions
  • Competitive salaries and benefits, especially in the Boston metro area
  • Increased demand in outpatient surgery centers and private practices
• Note: While practice is supervised, CRNAs benefit from strong interprofessional collaboration and advancement opportunities.

Connecticut:

CRNAs in Connecticut benefit from a high demand across both urban and suburban healthcare systems.

• Median salary: ~$253,734
• Highlights:
  • Strong job market with growing need in community hospitals and ASCs
  • Proximity to New York and Boston without the same cost of living
  • Quality of life perks with coastal access and top-rated schools
• Scope: Supervision required, but many facilities offer flexible, autonomous working environments.

Arizona:

Significant growth in surgical centers and favorable legislation.

Minnesota:

Offers one of the highest average CRNA salaries and full scope.

Washington:

Competitive pay and expanding health systems, though the cost of living is high.

Where Will You Thrive in 2025?

Choosing the right state isn’t just about salary—it’s about scope of practice, lifestyle, cost of living, and opportunity. Whether you’re looking for autonomy in Iowa, a coastal life in Florida, or high-demand hospital settings in Texas, 2025 is full of possibilities for CRNAs.

But there’s another factor that impacts your bottom line—employment classification.

1099 vs. W-2: What You Actually Take Home

While many CRNA roles advertise high hourly rates, it’s important to understand the difference between being a 1099 contractor and a W-2 employee:

1099 (Independent Contractor)

You’re responsible for your own taxes, benefits, retirement contributions, and insurance. While you may be offered a higher hourly rate (often quoted at $180–$260/hr), it’s essential to remember that those figures don’t include benefits—you must factor in the cost of malpractice coverage, time off, health insurance, and self-employment taxes.

W-2 (Employee)

You typically receive a lower hourly rate or annual salary, but employers cover your payroll taxes and offer benefits like PTO, CME stipends, healthcare, and 401(k) matching. This can provide more stability, especially for those not looking to handle the administrative side of independent practice.

Not every 1099 CRNA is making $260/hr. Rates vary widely based on location, scope, experience, and facility type. Many fall within the $170–$210/hr range, especially in saturated or lower-cost-of-living markets.

Conclusion

At ICON Anesthesia, we help CRNAs assess not just the dollar figure, but the real value of each opportunity. Whether you’re exploring high-paying locum tenens roles or looking for a stable W-2 position with full benefits, we’ll help you break down what’s truly in your best interest—financially and personally.

Your perfect assignment is out there—let’s find it together.