How much does a Certified Nurse Midwife make?
Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) play a vital role in healthcare. They work with patients during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. On average, a CNM earns about $133,986 per year. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of facility they work for.
The salary for CNMs can range widely. At the lower end, some CNMs earn around $52,407 annually. At the higher end, the highest earners can make up to $210,000 per year. This wide range shows that with experience and the right position, CNMs can earn a very good income. It also shows the value of their work in the healthcare system.
What are the highest paying cities for a Certified Nurse Midwife?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $218,392
In San Francisco, Certified Nurse Midwives play a key role in maternity care. They work in top healthcare facilities like UCSF Health. The city values their skills in providing personalized birthing plans.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $183,172
San Diego offers numerous opportunities for CNMs. They serve in renowned hospitals such as Sharp HealthCare. The city’s diverse population benefits from their expertise in family planning and prenatal care.
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Chico, CA
Average Salary: $160,924
Working in Chico, CNMs enjoy a close-knit community. They provide essential care at Enloe Medical Center. This city appreciates their role in delivering personalized maternity services.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $151,753
Modesto offers a chance to work in a supportive healthcare environment. Certified Nurse Midwives here contribute to family-centered care at Memorial Medical Center. The community values their dedication and skills.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $147,555
Los Angeles provides a bustling environment for CNMs. They work in facilities such as Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. Their role in high-risk pregnancies and childbirth is highly valued.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $146,971
In Portland, CNMs find rewarding roles in progressive healthcare settings. They serve at OHSU Hospital. The city’s focus on natural childbirth aligns with their practices.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $144,986
Sacramento offers a range of opportunities for CNMs. They work in prominent institutions like UC Davis Medical Center. Their skills in both urban and rural settings are highly regarded.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $139,217
Seattle’s healthcare sector provides excellent opportunities for CNMs. They work at Virginia Mason Medical Center. The city’s commitment to maternal health complements their work.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $130,615
Baltimore offers dynamic roles for CNMs. They work in top institutions like Johns Hopkins Hospital. The city values their expertise in high-risk maternity care.
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Fargo, ND
Average Salary: $129,809
In Fargo, CNMs find a community-focused role. They work at Sanford Health. The city appreciates their contributions to family-centered maternity services.
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What are the best companies a Certified Nurse Midwife can work for?

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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $179,110
Kaiser Permanente offers rewarding Certified Nurse Midwife jobs with competitive pay. This leading healthcare provider operates in multiple states including California, Washington, Colorado, and more. They provide comprehensive care and focus on patient-centered services.
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PeaceHealth
Average Salary: $159,963
PeaceHealth provides Certified Nurse Midwife positions with a strong focus on community healthcare. They serve the Northwest, including Washington and Oregon. The company values comprehensive care and teamwork, making it a great choice for those who want to make a difference.
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Denver Health
Average Salary: $133,810
Denver Health offers Certified Nurse Midwife jobs with a focus on public health. Located in Colorado, this major healthcare provider serves a diverse urban population. They emphasize quality care and community involvement.
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Stony Brook University Medical Center
Average Salary: $132,500
Stony Brook University Medical Center provides Certified Nurse Midwife opportunities with competitive salaries. Based in New York, they offer a blend of clinical experience and academic support. This location provides a dynamic environment for professional growth.
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Essentia Health
Average Salary: $132,069
Essentia Health offers Certified Nurse Midwife jobs with a strong emphasis on community and patient care. They operate across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota. This organization values a holistic approach to healthcare.
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Unified Women’s Healthcare
Average Salary: $125,318
Unified Women’s Healthcare provides Certified Nurse Midwife positions with a strong focus on women’s health. They operate in multiple states including California, Texas, and New York. They offer a supportive environment for professional development.
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OnPoint Medical Group
Average Salary: $124,853
OnPoint Medical Group offers Certified Nurse Midwife jobs with a commitment to quality care. They operate in Colorado and focus on community health. The company provides a collaborative environment for healthcare professionals.
How to earn more as a Certified Nurse Midwife?
Becoming a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) can lead to a fulfilling career with good pay. To earn more in this profession, certain steps can make a significant difference. Increasing your earning potential often involves expanding your skills and experience, and sometimes changing your work environment.
Here are key factors that can help CNMs earn more:
- Specialize in High-Demand Areas: Focus on areas such as neonatal care or women's health to increase job opportunities and pay.
- Obtain Advanced Certifications: Adding certifications in pain management or lactation can make a CNM more valuable to employers.
- Gain More Experience: Experience improves skills and often leads to higher pay. Working in different healthcare settings can also provide varied experience.
- Seek Leadership Roles: Taking on roles such as a lead midwife or department head can lead to higher salaries.
- Consider Geographic Location: Working in areas with a shortage of healthcare professionals can lead to higher pay due to demand.



