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CNA vs CRNA Nursing License

Average Salary
$35,760
CNA
vs
$203,090
CRNA
Job Growth
4%
CNA
vs
14%
CRNA
Workforce
1.4M+
CNA
vs
60K+
CRNA

Side-by-Side Comparison

Category CNA CRNA
Average Salary $35,760 $203,090
Workforce Size
Larger workforce = more job opportunities
1.4M+ 60K+
Job Growth Rate 4% 14%
Certification Exam Nurse Aide Competency Exam NCE (National Certification Examination)
Multi-State Compact No Yes

Key Differences

Salary

CRNAs earn $167,330 more per year on average than CNAs.

Winner: CRNA

Job Growth

CRNA is growing at 14%, indicating stronger demand.

Winner: CRNA

Multi-State Compact

CRNA participates in a multi-state compact, making it easier to practice across state lines.

Winner: CRNA

Category Winners

Higher Salary
CRNA $203,090
vs CNA ($35,760)
Faster Growth
CRNA 14%
vs CNA (4%)
Larger Workforce
CNA 1.4M+
vs CRNA (60K+)

Certified Nursing Assistant

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) provide basic patient care under the supervision of licensed nurses. CNAs help patients with daily activities, monitor vital signs, and serve as a vital link between patients and the healthcare team.

View CNA state requirements →

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are advanced practice registered nurses who administer anesthesia and provide anesthesia care before, during, and after surgical and other medical procedures.

View CRNA state requirements →

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