Bethesda vs Columbia: Nurse Anesthetist Salary (2026)
Compare nurse anesthetist salaries between Bethesda, MD and Columbia, MD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bethesda, MD | Columbia, MD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $262,759▲ | $233,066 |
| Hourly Rate | $126.32▲ | $112.05 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $172,573▲ | $148,228 |
| 25th Percentile | $228,549▲ | $198,621 |
| 75th Percentile | $330,351▲ | $294,151 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $380,857▲ | $340,353 |
| Total Employed | 18 | 24▲ |
Verdict
Bethesda, MD offers better overall compensation for nurse anesthetists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbia.
The salary gap between Bethesda and Columbia is $29,693 (12.74%). Bethesda's median is +5.57% compared to the US national median of $248,893.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bethesda spans $208,284,Columbia spans $192,125. Bethesda has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Bethesda ($240,402 effective) pays 12.74% more than Columbia ($213,235 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bethesda if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($262,759/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($380,857)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $240,402)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Larger job market (24 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, nurse anesthetist salaries in Bethesda grew 5.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -12.4% growth in Columbia over the same period.
Bethesda, MD
$237,535 (2024) → $249,771 (2025)
Columbia, MD
$252,865 (2024) → $221,546 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bethesda, MD
Columbia, MD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays nurse anesthetists more: Bethesda or Columbia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bethesda and Columbia?
Should I relocate from Bethesda to Columbia as a nurse anesthetist?
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Written by Alexandra Johnson, MSN, CRNA
Career Analyst
Alexandra Johnson has 10 years of experience as a nurse anesthetist. She specializes in anesthesia for orthopedic surgeries. She works in a regional medical center.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.20% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Alexandra Johnson, MSN, CRNA, a licensed nurse anesthetist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov