Columbus vs Macon: Nurse Anesthetist Salary (2026)
Compare nurse anesthetist salaries between Columbus, GA and Macon, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, GA | Macon, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $241,949▲ | $241,750 |
| Hourly Rate | $116.32▲ | $116.22 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $186,351 | $209,622▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $224,055▲ | $216,596 |
| 75th Percentile | $252,185 | $258,361▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $252,185 | $286,302▲ |
| Total Employed | N/A | 50 |
Verdict
Columbus and Macon are closely matched on overall nurse anesthetist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Columbus and Macon is $199 (0.08%). Columbus's median is -2.79% compared to the US national median of $248,893.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $65,834,Macon spans $76,680. Macon 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, Macon ($273,077 effective) pays 0.78% more than Columbus ($270,952 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($241,949/year)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Macon if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($286,302)
- ✓Larger job market (50 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $273,077)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, nurse anesthetist salaries in Columbus grew 16.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 39.8% growth in Macon over the same period.
Columbus, GA
$197,356 (2024) → $229,990 (2025)
Macon, GA
$164,360 (2022) → $229,800 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays nurse anesthetists more: Columbus or Macon?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Macon?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Macon as a nurse anesthetist?
What do entry-level nurse anesthetists earn in Columbus vs Macon?
Related Comparisons
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