Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA) Salary

Senior Nurse Anesthetist Salary in Littleton, CO: $350,261 (2026)

Quick Answer:The top tier of nurse anesthetists working in Littleton, CO — those at or above the 90th percentile — pull in $350,261/year or more for 2026, based on BLS OEWS 2025 estimates for SOC 29-1151. Strip back Littleton's price premium (BEA RPP 105.0, 5% above national) and that top-decile pay carries the same buying power as $333,582 in average-cost America. The 41% spread above city median typically rewards 7+ years of practice or specialty credentials.

$350,261
Top 10% Earn
$168.39/hr
Top Hourly Rate
$308,902
75th Percentile
$350,261
90th Percentile

Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source

Nurse Anesthetist Senior Salary in Littleton, CO — 2026 est., based on 2025 BLS
Littleton, CO nurse anesthetist senior salary overview (2026 est., based on 2025 BLS)

In 2026, senior nurse anesthetists in Littleton, Colorado, stand to earn a median annual salary of $248,275, with top earners in the 90th percentile enjoying impressive compensation reaching $350,261. This reflects a significant experience premium, showcasing the substantial income potential in this field. To reach these elevated pay levels, experienced professionals often focus on advanced specialties and superior competencies, often coupled with over seven years of practice. Additionally, the salary figures indicate that while Littleton's top end remains slightly below the national median of $248,893, the pathway to the upper echelons of the income spectrum entails diligent pursuit of advanced education credentials and specialized training, allowing nurse anesthetists to capitalize on their expertise in the evolving healthcare environment.

About the Littleton Market

Salary estimated from Colorado average ($220,000) adjusted for local cost of living.

2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Littleton

Vertical bar chart of 10th through 90th percentile salaries for nurse anesthetists in Littleton. The median salary is $248,275, compared to the national median of $248,893.$153.6K$207.2K$260.7K$314.2K$367.8K$170.7K10th Pctl$220.4K25th Pctl$248.3KMedian$308.9K75th Pctl$350.3K90th PctlUS Median$248.9K

Experienced nurse anesthetists at the top of the pay scale in Littleton earn between $308,902 and $350,261 per year (2026 est.). This $179,569 range from 10th to 90th percentile reflects significant earnings potential growth over a career. The Littleton median of $248,275 sits 0.25% below the US median.

Source: BLS OEWS projected to 2026. Percentiles reflect the distribution of nurse anesthetist pay in the Littleton metro area.

Top CRNA Salary Comparison

LevelLittletonNational
Median (P50)$248,275$248,893
75th Percentile$308,902$309,656
90th Percentile (Top 10%)$350,261$357,154

In Littleton, experienced nurse anesthetists (P90) earn 41.08% more than the local median — reflecting the significant value of specialization and tenure in this market.

What Drives Top Nurse Anesthetist Pay in Littleton

1

Advanced Certifications in Colorado

CO nurse anesthetists with additional specialty certifications within the nursing field earn significantly above the $248,275 median. Expanded-scope credentials are increasingly valued by Littleton employers.

2

Specialty Focus

Nurse Anesthetists focusing on high-acuity or specialty areas within the nursing field in Littleton command premium compensation, often reaching the $308,902–$350,261 range.

3

Large Health-System & Multi-Site Experience

Large hospital systems and multi-site employers in the Littleton metro area often pay above-market rates for experienced nurse anesthetists who demonstrate efficiency and leadership.

4

Employer Loyalty & Patient Relationships

Long-tenured nurse anesthetists in Littleton with established relationships have strong negotiating leverage. In this developing market, retention bonuses and annual raises are common for top performers.

5

Continuing Education & Leadership

Nurse Anesthetists in Colorado who pursue advanced degrees, mentor junior staff, or lead clinical education programs position themselves for the highest compensation tiers and management roles.

Nurse Anesthetist Career & Wage Growth Path in Littleton

Clinical Nurse Anesthetist

0-5 years
$170,692 – $248,275

Senior/Lead Nurse Anesthetist

5-10 years
$248,275 – $308,902

Nurse Anesthetist Department Manager

10+ years
$308,902+

Educator / Specialty Leadership

Advanced
Varies by role

Littleton ranks #22 of 32 Colorado cities for top earner nurse anesthetist salary (90th percentile: $350,261).

Top 10% nurse anesthetist compensation in Littleton ($350,261) is 2.13% above the Colorado average P90 ($342,964).

2024 BLS Actual

$275,250

2025 BLS Actual

$332,948

2026 Current Est.

$350,261

2024–2027 Growth

+33.9%

Salary Trajectory for Nurse Anesthetists in Littleton (20242027)

2024–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.20% projection.

BLS Actual Estimated Projected
Salary trajectory chart for nurse anesthetists in Littleton. Baseline $275,250 in 2025, projected to $368,475 by 2027.$256.6K$289.2K$321.9K$354.5K$387.1K20242025202620272025 BLS$275.3K$332.9K$350.3K$368.5K
YearAnnual SalaryStatus
2024$275,250Actual
2025$332,948Actual
2026(current)$350,261Estimated
2027$368,475Projected

Top-earning nurse anesthetists (90th percentile) in Littleton saw their compensation grow 21.0% from $275,250 in 2024 to $332,948 in 2025, based on 2 years of BLS OEWS data for this metropolitan area. At a 5.20% annual growth rate, senior-level pay is projected to reach $368,475 by 2027, reflecting continued demand for clinical expertise and expanded-function credentials.

Note: Historical values (20242025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Littleton metropolitan area, sourced from annual Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics surveys. 20262026 figures are current estimates, and 2027 values are projections, calculated using a 5.20% CAGR derived from 2-year BLS historical data. Actual salaries may vary based on employer, experience, certifications, and local market conditions.

Maximizing Your Nurse Anesthetist Earnings in Littleton

Compensation for experienced nurse anesthetists in Littleton can vary significantly depending on their area of specialization and the type of employer. For instance, those focusing on pediatric anesthesia, obstetric anesthesia, and cardiac anesthesia often secure higher pay based on the complexity and demand for these services. Distinct compensation structures emerge based on employment type—hospital systems typically offer W-2 employment, while ambulatory surgery centers may allow for both W-2 and 1099 arrangements. Furthermore, advanced positions like lead CRNA or anesthesia group practice partner come with their unique financial advantages, often supported by profit-sharing models. Clinical advancements, such as obtaining a DNP or further certification through NBCRNA, not only provide a foundation for career growth but also lead to increased earnings. Non-salary benefits such as call coverage differentials, productivity bonuses, and trauma center stipends further enhance the financial reward for top nurse anesthetists in Littleton, CO, making this a multifaceted profession with numerous pathways for advancement and increased pay.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do experienced nurse anesthetists make in Littleton in 2026?

Top-earning nurse anesthetists in Littleton (90th percentile) make $350,261/year, based on estimated 2026 salary (projected from 2025 BLS data at 5.20% annual growth). This is $101,986 more than the area median of $248,275 — representing a significant experience premium. Senior nurse anesthetists typically reach this level after 10+ years of clinical experience combined with specialty certifications, strong patient relationships, and working at high-production or specialty practices.

What drives higher nurse anesthetist pay in Littleton?

Higher nurse anesthetist pay in Littleton is driven by several key factors: years of clinical experience (10+ years for top tier), specializations, expanded-function certifications that allow additional procedures, and employment at high-production practices or large organizations. Geographic factors within the metro area also matter — practices in affluent neighborhoods or underserved areas often pay premium rates. Building a loyal patient base and strong clinical reputation further supports salary negotiation.

What certifications boost nurse anesthetist salary in Littleton?

The most impactful salary-boosting certifications for nurse anesthetists in Littleton include specialty certifications, advanced treatment certifications, and expanded-function credentials. These certifications can increase earnings well above the median of $248,275, especially when combined with experience at specialty practices.

Can experienced nurse anesthetists make six figures in Littleton?

Yes — the 90th percentile salary in Littleton is $350,261, well above $100K. Nurse Anesthetists with 10+ years of experience, advanced certifications, and strong negotiation skills are most likely to reach this level. Working at multiple practices, taking on mentoring responsibilities, or specializing in high-demand areas can further push earnings above six figures.

How much does nurse anesthetist salary increase over time in Littleton?

In Littleton, the gap between entry level ($170,692) and top earners ($350,261) is $179,569, reflecting significant earning potential over a career. Most salary growth occurs in the first 5–10 years through accumulated clinical experience and additional credentials. After year 10, growth slows unless you pursue management roles, teaching positions, or transition into consulting. Continuous professional development is essential for maximizing long-term earnings.

Related Pages

Nearby Cities in Colorado

AJ

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.

Clinically reviewed by Michael Lee, DNP, CRNAData verified by Fatima Ahmad, MSN, CRNA

Methodology & Data Source

Top-earner salary figures on this page are 2026 projections derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. BLS reported a 90th percentile salary of $332,948 for nurse anesthetists in the Littleton metro area. A 5.20% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), calculated from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to project current 2026 senior-level compensation. Individual earnings depend on certifications, specialization, practice type, and years of clinical experience.

Data Sources & Methodology

Salary data for Littleton is estimated from official BLS state-level occupational wage data (2025), adjusted for regional cost-of-living differences using BEA RPP (Regional Price Parities).

View estimation methodology

2026 figures are projected from 2025 BLS data using a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.20%, derived from historical BLS wage trends for nurse anesthetists (SOC 29-1151).

Compiled and verified by Alexandra Johnson, MSN, CRNA, a licensed nurse anesthetist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov

Last verified: