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CRNA vs CNS Nursing License

Average Salary
$203,090
CRNA
vs
$106,020
CNS
Job Growth
14%
CRNA
vs
9%
CNS
Workforce
60K+
CRNA
vs
72K+
CNS

Side-by-Side Comparison

Category CRNA CNS
Average Salary $203,090 $106,020
Workforce Size
Larger workforce = more job opportunities
60K+ 72K+
Job Growth Rate 14% 9%
Certification Exam NCE (National Certification Examination) CNS Certification Exam
Multi-State Compact Yes Yes

Key Differences

Salary

CRNAs earn $97,070 more per year on average than CNSs.

Winner: CRNA

Job Growth

CRNA is growing at 14%, indicating stronger demand.

Winner: CRNA

Category Winners

Higher Salary
CRNA $203,090
vs CNS ($106,020)
Faster Growth
CRNA 14%
vs CNS (9%)
Larger Workforce
CNS 72K+
vs CRNA (60K+)

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 →

Clinical Nurse Specialist

Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) are advanced practice registered nurses who specialize in a particular area of nursing practice and serve as clinical experts, educators, and consultants.

View CNS state requirements →

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