Anesthesiologists vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Anesthesiologists out-earn Registered Nurses by $294K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Anesthesiologists land at $391,490 and Registered Nurses at $97,550. The education gap is real: anesthesiologist programs typically require doctoral or professional degree, while registered nurse programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Anesthesiologists is Washington ($499,990); for Registered Nurses it's California ($140,270).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Anesthesiologists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Anesthesiologists or Registered Nurses?
Anesthesiologists earn more nationally. The median is $391,490 for Anesthesiologists versus $97,550 for Registered Nurses, a difference of $294K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Anesthesiologists or Registered Nurses?
Registered Nurses has the better 10-year outlook at 4.9% projected growth, compared to 3.2% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Anesthesiologists or Registered Nurses?
Anesthesiologists typically requires doctoral or professional degree. Registered Nurses requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Anesthesiologists get paid the most?
Washington is the top-paying state for Anesthesiologists at $499,990/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Anesthesiologists vs. Registered Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Washington, Anesthesiologists earn $499,990 vs. $124,200 for Registered Nurses. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.