How much does a Certified Nurse Midwife make?
Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) enjoy a rewarding career in healthcare. Their average yearly salary stands at around $138,145. This salary can vary based on several factors. These include the number of years in practice, the type of healthcare facility, and the geographic location. Many CNMs find their profession not only financially rewarding but also personally fulfilling.
The salary range for CNMs can be quite broad. At the lower end, CNMs can earn around $90,000 per year. On the higher end, salaries can reach up to $210,760 annually. The distribution of salaries shows that a significant number of CNMs earn between $122,935 and $166,847 per year. This range provides a good overview of what CNMs can expect in terms of compensation. With experience and specialization, many CNMs see their salaries increase over time.
What are the highest paying cities for a Certified Nurse Midwife?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $216,262
San Francisco offers a diverse patient base for midwives. The city’s many hospitals and clinics provide excellent opportunities. UCSF Health and Kaiser Permanente are notable employers.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $179,098
In San Diego, professionals find a supportive environment for midwifery. Many community health centers and hospitals offer rewarding experiences. Scripps Health and Kaiser Permanente are prominent employers.
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Chico, CA
Average Salary: $160,924
Chico offers a close-knit community where midwives can make a real difference. Local health centers and clinics provide ample opportunities to work with a variety of patients. Enloe Medical Center is a notable employer.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $156,127
Fresno provides a dynamic setting for midwifery. The city’s growing population offers diverse experiences. Kaiser Permanente and St. Agnes Medical Center are key employers.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $149,748
Modesto offers a welcoming environment for midwives. The community-focused approach at local clinics makes for a rewarding experience. Doctors Medical Center is a notable employer.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $148,448
Los Angeles is a bustling city with diverse opportunities for midwives. The large and varied population provides rich experiences. Cedars-Sinai and Kaiser Permanente are leading employers.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $147,205
Sacramento offers a balanced approach to midwifery. The city’s health centers and hospitals provide a mix of urban and rural experiences. UC Davis Medical Center is a key employer.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $145,425
Portland provides a progressive environment for midwifery. The city’s health centers emphasize holistic care. Kaiser Permanente and Legacy Health are prominent employers.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $139,988
Seattle offers a vibrant setting for midwives. The city’s health system includes many progressive hospitals. Swedish Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente are major employers.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $130,009
Denver provides a thriving environment for midwifery. The city’s health centers and hospitals value community care. UCHealth and Kaiser Permanente are leading employers.
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What are the best companies a Certified Nurse Midwife can work for?

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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $177,071
Kaiser Permanente offers rewarding opportunities for Certified Nurse Midwives. They provide excellent care across various locations in California, Colorado, and more. Kaiser emphasizes work-life balance and professional growth.
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Nuvance Health
Average Salary: $150,244
Nuvance Health has a strong reputation for Certified Nurse Midwife positions. They serve communities in New York and Connecticut. This company offers a supportive environment with opportunities for professional development.
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Intermountain Health
Average Salary: $134,640
Intermountain Health is a great choice for Certified Nurse Midwives. They operate in Utah, Idaho, and several other states. This company values patient care and teamwork, offering a fulfilling work experience.
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Denver Health
Average Salary: $132,684
Denver Health provides competitive salaries for Certified Nurse Midwives. They serve the Denver metropolitan area. This health system is known for its dedication to community health and employee support.
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Stony Brook University Medical Center
Average Salary: $132,500
Stony Brook University Medical Center offers attractive opportunities for Certified Nurse Midwives. They operate on Long Island, New York. This institution values education and professional advancement, making it a great fit for career growth.
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Essentia Health
Average Salary: $129,631
Essentia Health is known for its supportive environment for Certified Nurse Midwives. They serve areas in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota. Essentia emphasizes collaboration and patient-centered care.
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Unified Women’s Healthcare
Average Salary: $127,978
Unified Women’s Healthcare offers rewarding positions for Certified Nurse Midwives. They operate across several states, including New York and Pennsylvania. This company focuses on providing quality care and fostering a positive work environment.
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OnPoint Medical Group
Average Salary: $123,333
OnPoint Medical Group provides a supportive setting for Certified Nurse Midwives. They serve the Denver area. This group values teamwork and patient care, offering a fulfilling career experience.
How to earn more as a Certified Nurse Midwife?
A Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) often enjoys a rewarding career. With the right strategies, CNMs can also increase their earnings. Focus on the following areas to enhance income potential. These steps are practical and can make a significant difference.
First, gain additional certifications and specializations. CNMs who obtain credentials in fields like neonatal care or pain management often see higher pay. These added skills make a CNM more valuable to employers. Seek opportunities to take advanced courses and tests. They can open doors to better-paying positions.
Second, choose to work in high-demand areas. Certain regions and facilities need more midwives. Urban centers and underserved rural areas often offer higher wages. Consider relocating if it means better pay and more job options. Look at where the need is greatest and plan accordingly.
- Obtain additional certifications
- Work in high-demand areas
- Pursue advanced degrees
- Join professional organizations
- Network with other professionals
Third, pursue advanced degrees. A Master’s or Doctorate in Nursing can lead to higher salaries. These degrees also offer more career advancement opportunities. They prepare CNMs for leadership roles that come with higher pay. Investing in education can lead to long-term financial gains.
Fourth, join professional organizations. Membership in groups like the American College of Nurse-Midwives offers many benefits. These organizations provide resources, networking opportunities, and continuing education. They also advocate for better pay and working conditions. Being part of such groups can lead to job leads and salary increases.
Lastly, network with other professionals. Building relationships can lead to job offers and higher salaries. Attend conferences, join committees, and connect on social media. Sharing experiences and advice with peers can reveal new earning opportunities. A strong professional network is a powerful tool in increasing income.



