Columbia vs Independence: Nurse Anesthetist Salary (2026)
Compare nurse anesthetist salaries between Columbia, MO and Independence, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, MO | Independence, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $326,299▲ | $227,590 |
| Hourly Rate | $156.87▲ | $109.42 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $226,622▲ | $153,370 |
| 25th Percentile | $257,729▲ | $200,487 |
| 75th Percentile | $326,299▲ | $279,758 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $326,299 | $344,166▲ |
| Total Employed | 90▲ | 30 |
Verdict
Columbia, MO offers better overall compensation for nurse anesthetists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Independence.
The salary gap between Columbia and Independence is $98,709 (43.37%). Columbia's median is +31.10% compared to the US national median of $248,893.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbia spans $99,677,Independence spans $190,796. Independence has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced nurse anesthetists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Columbia ($364,833 effective) pays 43.63% more than Independence ($254,007 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($326,299/year)
- ✓Larger job market (90 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $364,833)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose Independence if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($344,166)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, nurse anesthetist salaries in Columbia grew 79.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 10.0% growth in Independence over the same period.
Columbia, MO
$172,490 (2019) → $310,170 (2025)
Independence, MO
$196,598 (2024) → $216,340 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, MO
Independence, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays nurse anesthetists more: Columbia or Independence?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbia and Independence?
Should I relocate from Columbia to Independence as a nurse anesthetist?
What do entry-level nurse anesthetists earn in Columbia vs Independence?
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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