Nurse Anesthetist Hourly Pay in Pine Bluff, AR: $101.50 (2026)

For those considering a career as a nurse anesthetist in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, the projected hourly pay in 2026 is set at $101.50. This figure falls below the national median of $119.66, reflecting regional economic conditions and the cost of living index of 86.9, which is below the national average. Generally, the pay offers a stable income for part-time professionals working three days a week (around 24 hours) or those engaged in per diem roles within various healthcare settings such as operating rooms, ambulatory surgery centers, and dental anesthesia clinics. The hourly pay range in Pine Bluff spans from approximately $65.80 for entry-level positions to about $144.89 for those at the top of their field, establishing a structure where compensation aligns with experience and type of practice.

Shifting to a deeper analysis of the earning potential, a nurse anesthetist working part-time for three days per week could expect a substantial annual income compared to typical full-time earnings, depending on their hours and work agreements. Per diem practitioners have wider earning flexibility; they often negotiate rates that can reach upwards of $200 to $350 per hour in premium markets, adding to their overall income substantially, especially when factoring daily assignments that can pay between $1,500 and $2,500. In Pine Bluff, the type of employer significantly affects compensation levels, with hospital systems offering W-2 employment, while ambulatory and privately owned practices might extend 1099 arrangements. Many CRNAs find themselves weighing the trade-offs between higher hourly pay without benefits versus the security of a salaried position that includes healthcare coverage. Negotiating hourly rates often involves highlighting relevant credentials and experience, especially within the context of the expanding CRNA-owned group practices in opt-out states or working within an Anesthesia Care Team model, making it crucial to articulate your value based on local market dynamics.