Senior Nurse Anesthetist Salary in Knoxville, TN: $250,060 (2026)

Compensation for senior nurse anesthetists in Knoxville varies significantly based on specialization and the type of employer. Specialties like pediatric anesthesia, obstetric anesthesia, and trauma anesthesia at prestigious level-1 centers command premium pay, as these roles often involve complex procedures that require advanced skills. When analyzing how compensation diverges across different employer types, it's evident that positions in hospital systems and ambulatory surgery centers typically offer stable W-2 employment, while those working with locum tenens agencies or in CRNA-owned practices may benefit from more flexible 1099 arrangements. Career advancement pathways in Tennessee can lead to positions such as chief CRNA or anesthesia department director, providing opportunities not just for increased salary but also for involvement in shaping practice standards. Furthermore, obtaining advanced credentials—whether through additional fellowships or higher terminal degrees like the DNP—can enhance marketability and justify higher compensation. Non-salary benefits, including favorable call coverage arrangements and productivity bonuses, also significantly influence overall earnings and job satisfaction in this rewarding profession.