Nurse Midwife Salary: Median Pay, Influencing Factors, and Career Outlook (2024)

Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) specializing in women's reproductive health and childbirth. Compensation reflects their advanced education, scope of practice, and growing demand.

National Salary Data (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023)

• Median Annual Wage: $129,650
• 10th–90th Percentile: $85,000 – $175,000+
• Mean Hourly: ~$62.33

Key Factors Influencing Salary

• Geographic Location: Highest in CA, NY, MA, WA, OR (metro areas $140K–$180K). Rural/southern states lower ($90K–$110K) but lower cost of living.
• Practice Setting:
  • Hospital/health system: $120K–$150K + benefits
  • Birth center: $100K–$130K
  • Private/group practice: Variable, often productivity-based
  • Academic/teaching: $110K–$140K + faculty benefits
  • Locum tenens: $60–$100+/hr (no benefits)
• Experience: Entry-level ~$95K–$110K; 10+ years often $140K+.
• Credentials: DNP vs. MSN, additional certifications (e.g., CNM, WHNP, lactation consultant) add value.
• Call Schedule / Volume: High-volume, high-acuity, or 24/7 call increases compensation.
• Union / Collective Bargaining: Some hospital-employed CNMs have union-negotiated scales.

Career Outlook

• Projected Growth (2022–2032): 6% (faster than average) — BLS.
• Drivers: Physician shortage, Medicaid expansion, birth center growth, patient preference for midwifery model.
• Full practice authority states (27+ DC) offer greatest autonomy and earning potential.

Total Compensation Considerations

Base salary + call pay + bonuses + retirement match + CME allowance + malpractice coverage + PTO + health insurance. Evaluate the full package.