What is the highest pay for a Nurse?

As of 2025, the highest-paid nursing role is that of a Nurse Anesthetist, with an estimated annual salary of approximately $214,200. This position requires advanced education, specifically a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or a Doctor of Nursing Anesthesia Practice (DNAP). Following closely are Geriatric Nurse Practitioners, who earn around $154,000 per year, and Clinical Nurse Specialists, with an average salary of $141,621. Both of these roles typically require a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a DNP. Additionally, Orthopedic Nurse Practitioners can expect to earn about $139,781 annually, also necessitating an MSN. These figures highlight the significant earning potential within the nursing profession, particularly for those who pursue advanced degrees and specialize in high-demand areas of healthcare.