Nurse Midwives vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Nurse Midwivess out-earn Registered Nursess by $36K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Nurse Midwivess land at $134,040 and Registered Nursess at $97,550. The education gap is real: nurse midwife programs typically require master's degree, while registered nurse programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Nurse Midwivess is California ($203,840); for Registered Nursess it's California ($140,270).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Nurse Midwives median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Nurse Midwivess or Registered Nursess?
Nurse Midwivess earn more nationally. The median is $134,040 for Nurse Midwivess versus $97,550 for Registered Nursess, a difference of $36K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Nurse Midwives or Registered Nurses?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Nurse Midwives or Registered Nurses?
Nurse Midwives typically requires master's degree. Registered Nurses requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Nurse Midwivess get paid the most?
California is the top-paying state for Nurse Midwivess at $203,840/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Nurse Midwives vs. Registered Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In California, Nurse Midwivess earn $203,840 vs. $140,270 for Registered Nursess. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.