How much does a Certified Nurse Midwife make?
Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) play a vital role in healthcare, providing essential services to women and newborns. Their dedication often translates into a rewarding salary. On average, CNMs earn about $136,424 per year. This figure reflects the value placed on their expertise and the critical nature of their work.
The salary range for CNMs can vary based on several factors. These include experience, location, and the type of healthcare facility. For instance, those in urban areas or specialized hospitals may earn more. The data shows that the lowest-earning CNMs make around $87,500, while the highest earners can reach up to $210,760. This range highlights the potential for growth and advancement in the field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Certified Nurse Midwife?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $212,947
In San Francisco, midwives work in top-tier hospitals like UCSF Health. They offer care in a vibrant, diverse community. The city's progressive environment supports innovative healthcare practices.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $178,091
San Diego offers a mix of urban and coastal settings for midwives. They work in facilities like Sharp HealthCare and Rady Children's Hospital. The city's mild climate makes it a pleasant place to live and work.
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Chico, CA
Average Salary: $161,138
Chico provides a smaller, community-focused environment. Midwives here work closely with local families. The area's natural beauty and outdoor activities make it a great place to live.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $152,364
Fresno offers a growing healthcare sector. Midwives can find opportunities in large hospitals like Community Regional Medical Center. The city's central location makes it a hub for various industries.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $149,748
Modesto is known for its agricultural roots and growing healthcare needs. Midwives work in facilities like Memorial Medical Center. The city's family-friendly atmosphere is a big plus.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $143,143
Los Angeles offers a dynamic healthcare landscape. Midwives can find work in major hospitals like Cedars-Sinai and Kaiser Permanente. The city's diverse population provides a rich variety of experiences.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $131,131
Seattle's healthcare system is robust, with midwives working in institutions like Swedish Medical Center. The city's tech-driven economy and natural beauty make it an attractive place to work.
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Lexington, KY
Average Salary: $130,819
Lexington offers a blend of urban and rural settings. Midwives work in hospitals like UK Healthcare. The city's strong community and educational institutions add to its appeal.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $127,312
Denver provides a high-altitude environment with a strong healthcare network. Midwives can find opportunities in facilities like Denver Health. The city's outdoor activities and vibrant culture make it a great place to live.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $124,448
Baltimore offers a rich history and diverse community. Midwives work in hospitals like Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center. The city's cultural attractions and affordable living add to its charm.
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What are the best companies a Certified Nurse Midwife can work for?

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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $210,617
Sutter Health offers Certified Nurse Midwife jobs in California. They provide excellent benefits and a supportive work environment. Locations include Northern California.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $172,051
Kaiser Permanente provides Certified Nurse Midwife positions across the United States. They focus on patient care and offer competitive salaries. Locations include California, Colorado, and more.
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Nuvance Health
Average Salary: $146,284
Nuvance Health offers Certified Nurse Midwife jobs in New York and Connecticut. They emphasize teamwork and professional development. Locations include Danbury, New Milford, and more.
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Optum
Average Salary: $136,300
Optum offers Certified Nurse Midwife positions nationwide. They focus on innovation and patient care. Locations include various states across the United States.
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Stony Brook University Medical Center
Average Salary: $132,500
Stony Brook University Medical Center provides Certified Nurse Midwife jobs in New York. They offer a collaborative environment and excellent benefits. Locations include Stony Brook, NY.
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Intermountain Health
Average Salary: $132,313
Intermountain Health offers Certified Nurse Midwife positions in Utah and Idaho. They focus on quality care and professional growth. Locations include Salt Lake City, Boise, and more.
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Unified Women’s Healthcare
Average Salary: $128,958
Unified Women’s Healthcare provides Certified Nurse Midwife jobs across the United States. They emphasize patient care and professional development. Locations include various states.
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Denver Health
Average Salary: $128,846
Denver Health offers Certified Nurse Midwife positions in Colorado. They focus on community health and provide excellent benefits. Locations include Denver, CO.
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Essentia Health
Average Salary: $128,014
Essentia Health provides Certified Nurse Midwife jobs in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota. They emphasize teamwork and professional growth. Locations include Duluth, MN, and more.
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OnPoint Medical Group
Average Salary: $122,708
OnPoint Medical Group offers Certified Nurse Midwife positions in Colorado. They focus on patient care and professional development. Locations include Denver, CO.
How to earn more as a Certified Nurse Midwife?
Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) have a rewarding career in healthcare. They can earn more by taking certain steps. This can lead to a higher salary and better job opportunities. CNMs can increase their earnings by gaining experience, specializing in a niche, and seeking advanced certifications. These actions can open doors to higher-paying positions and more responsibilities.
Here are some ways CNMs can earn more:
- Gain Experience: Working in different settings can help CNMs gain valuable experience. This can lead to higher-paying jobs.
- Specialize in a Niche: Focusing on areas like neonatal care or women's health can make a CNM more valuable. This can lead to higher pay.
- Get Advanced Certifications: Certifications in areas like lactation consulting or pain management can increase a CNM's skills. This can lead to higher salaries.
- Work in High-Demand Areas: CNMs can earn more by working in areas with a shortage of healthcare providers. This can include rural or underserved urban areas.
- Pursue Leadership Roles: Taking on roles like nurse manager or clinical director can lead to higher pay. These roles come with more responsibilities and higher salaries.