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RN vs CRNA Nursing License

Average Salary
$81,220
RN
vs
$203,090
CRNA
Job Growth
6%
RN
vs
14%
CRNA
Workforce
3.1M+
RN
vs
60K+
CRNA

Side-by-Side Comparison

Category RN CRNA
Average Salary $81,220 $203,090
Workforce Size
Larger workforce = more job opportunities
3.1M+ 60K+
Job Growth Rate 6% 14%
Certification Exam NCLEX-RN NCE (National Certification Examination)
Multi-State Compact Yes Yes

Key Differences

Salary

CRNAs earn $121,870 more per year on average than RNs.

Winner: CRNA

Job Growth

CRNA is growing at 14%, indicating stronger demand.

Winner: CRNA

Category Winners

Higher Salary
CRNA $203,090
vs RN ($81,220)
Faster Growth
CRNA 14%
vs RN (6%)
Larger Workforce
RN 3.1M+
vs CRNA (60K+)

Registered Nurse

Registered Nurses (RNs) provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients about health conditions, and provide advice and emotional support.

View RN 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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