As the healthcare landscape evolves, so do the opportunities—and salaries—for nurses. In 2025, demand for highly skilled, specialized nurses is at an all-time high. Whether you’re a new RN or a seasoned nurse looking to climb the ladder, this guide will show you the top-paying roles in nursing this year—and how to land them.
1. Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
Average Salary: $210,000+
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are among the most advanced—and highest paid—nurses in the field. They administer anesthesia during surgeries and monitor patient vitals, often working alongside surgeons and anesthesiologists.
How to Get There:
- Earn your BSN
- Obtain RN licensure and gain 1–3 years of critical care experience
- Complete a DNP or DNAP program in nurse anesthesia
- Pass the National Certification Examination (NCE)
Pro Tip: CRNAs are in high demand in rural and underserved areas—some employers offer six-figure signing bonuses.
2. Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
Average Salary: $140,000–$170,000
As mental health needs surge, PMHNPs are stepping in to fill a critical gap. These nurses diagnose and treat mental illnesses, often prescribing medications and providing therapy.
How to Get There:
- Earn your BSN and become an RN
- Pursue an MSN or DNP specializing in psychiatric mental health
- Get certified through the ANCC
Why It’s Hot in 2025: The mental health crisis is ongoing—and virtual care is expanding PMHNPs’ reach.
3. Nurse Practitioner (NP) – Acute Care
Average Salary: $130,000–$160,000
Acute Care NPs provide care in fast-paced settings like ERs and ICUs. They diagnose critical conditions, order tests, and even perform procedures.
How to Get There:
- BSN + RN license
- Advanced degree (MSN/DNP) with an Acute Care NP focus
- Board certification (ACNP-BC or AGACNP-BC)
In Demand: Aging baby boomers and more complex hospital cases are boosting demand in acute care.
4. Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
Average Salary: $120,000–$150,000
CNSs are expert clinicians who also lead system-wide improvements in hospitals. They often serve as mentors, researchers, and educators—making them valuable assets in large healthcare systems.
How to Get There:
- MSN or DNP with a Clinical Nurse Specialist track
- RN experience in your specialty area
- Certification by the ANCC (varies by population focus)
Fast Track Tip: CNS roles are often stepping stones to executive nursing leadership.
5. Nurse Administrator / Director of Nursing
Average Salary: $110,000–$140,000 (but can exceed $180K in large systems)
Want to move away from the bedside? Nurse administrators oversee nursing departments, manage budgets, and ensure care quality.
How to Get There:
- RN + BSN (required)
- MSN in Nursing Administration or Healthcare Leadership
- Strong background in management and clinical leadership
Bonus: Many nurse executives earn bonuses tied to organizational performance.
How to Increase Your Earning Potential
Whether you’re aiming for one of the jobs above or simply want to earn more where you are, here are smart steps to take:
Earn Advanced Certifications – CCRN, NEA-BC, CPNP, and others can add credibility and dollars.
Get Your DNP – Doctorate-level nurses are in high demand for leadership and teaching roles.
Relocate Strategically – States like California, New York, and Massachusetts offer higher wages, especially in metro areas.
Go Travel or Per Diem – Travel nurses and per diem RNs can sometimes out-earn salaried counterparts.
Build a Specialty – Niche experience (e.g., trauma, oncology, informatics) can be a major pay booster.
Whether you’re eyeing a six-figure CRNA role or curious how your current salary stacks up across the country—we’ve got you. Map my pay puts real pay data, career insights, and upgrade paths in your hands, so you can stop guessing and start growing. At Map My Pay, we believe nurses deserve transparency, choices, and the confidence to ask for what they’re worth.