Nurse Midwives: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 8,280 nurse midwives, and they earn a median of $128,790/year. The range runs from $75K to $177K. California pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level nurse midwives start around $75K. The gap between that and the median ($129K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $177K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| California | $197K | 880 |
| Massachusetts | $156K | 190 |
| Washington | $145K | 150 |
| Vermont | $140K | 40 |
| Virginia | $140K | N/A |
| Utah | $138K | 100 |
| New York | $138K | 490 |
| Iowa | $136K | 70 |
| New Hampshire | $136K | 50 |
| New Jersey | $136K | 190 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a nurse midwives make?▼
The median nurse midwives salary in the United States is $128,790 per year ($62/hour). Entry-level positions start around $74,670, while experienced professionals earn up to $177,040.
What education do you need to become a nurse midwives?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for nurse midwives?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for nurse midwives.
What are the highest paying states for nurse midwives?▼
The highest paying states for nurse midwives are California ($196,700), Massachusetts ($155,710), Washington ($145,000), Vermont ($140,240), Virginia ($139,770). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.