How much does a Certified Nurse Midwife make?
Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) play a vital role in healthcare. They provide care to women, focusing on pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. Their work is both rewarding and impactful. The average yearly salary for a CNM is around $137,000. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the type of healthcare facility.
CNMs can earn more as they gain more experience. Entry-level CNMs may start with salaries on the lower end of the scale. Those with several years of experience often see higher pay. Location also plays a big role. Urban areas and regions with a shortage of healthcare professionals may offer higher salaries. Hospitals, private practices, and clinics all have different pay scales. Each setting offers unique benefits and opportunities for growth.
What are the highest paying cities for a Certified Nurse Midwife?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $214,500
In San Francisco, midwives work in top-tier hospitals like UCSF Health. They provide care for women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. The city offers many opportunities for professional growth.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $179,098
San Diego offers a vibrant environment for midwives. They work in facilities like Sharp HealthCare. The city's diverse population allows for varied experiences. Midwives here enjoy a strong community support system.
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Chico, CA
Average Salary: $160,986
Chico provides a more relaxed setting for midwives. They work in the local healthcare system, focusing on community health. The smaller size allows for closer patient relationships. It's a great place for those who prefer a quieter lifestyle.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $154,125
Fresno offers a mix of urban and rural settings. Midwives here work in places like Community Regional Medical Center. They serve a diverse population. The city provides a good balance of professional opportunities and a lower cost of living.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $149,748
Modesto is known for its family-friendly environment. Midwives work in hospitals like Memorial Medical Center. They focus on providing personalized care. The city offers a supportive community and a lower cost of living.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $148,448
Los Angeles offers a bustling environment for midwives. They work in major hospitals like Cedars-Sinai. The city provides endless opportunities for professional development. Midwives here can expect a dynamic and diverse work experience.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $147,205
Sacramento offers a balanced lifestyle for midwives. They work in facilities like UC Davis Health. The city provides a mix of urban and suburban settings. Midwives here enjoy a strong sense of community and professional growth.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $139,988
Seattle offers a progressive environment for midwives. They work in renowned hospitals like Swedish Medical Center. The city values healthcare and wellness. Midwives here enjoy a vibrant community and many professional opportunities.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $137,218
Portland provides a unique setting for midwives. They work in places like Providence Portland Medical Center. The city values natural childbirth and holistic care. Midwives here enjoy a strong community and a healthy lifestyle.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $129,987
Baltimore offers a rich history for midwives. They work in hospitals like Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center. The city provides diverse experiences. Midwives here enjoy a strong sense of community and many professional opportunities.
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What are the best companies a Certified Nurse Midwife can work for?

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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $208,464
Sutter Health offers Certified Nurse Midwife jobs with competitive salaries. They operate in Northern California. Their facilities provide comprehensive care and support for midwives.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $175,215
Kaiser Permanente provides Certified Nurse Midwife jobs with a strong salary. They have locations across the West Coast and Mid-Atlantic. They focus on patient-centered care and professional development.
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Nuvance Health
Average Salary: $149,146
Nuvance Health offers Certified Nurse Midwife jobs with a good salary. They serve areas in New York and Connecticut. They emphasize a supportive work environment and community health.
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Intermountain Health
Average Salary: $134,150
Intermountain Health provides Certified Nurse Midwife jobs with a solid salary. They operate in Utah and Idaho. They focus on quality care and professional growth.
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Stony Brook University Medical Center
Average Salary: $132,500
Stony Brook University Medical Center offers Certified Nurse Midwife jobs with a competitive salary. They are located on Long Island, New York. They provide a dynamic work environment and educational opportunities.
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Denver Health
Average Salary: $130,906
Denver Health provides Certified Nurse Midwife jobs with a good salary. They serve the Denver area. They focus on community health and professional development.
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Essentia Health
Average Salary: $129,631
Essentia Health offers Certified Nurse Midwife jobs with a solid salary. They operate in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota. They emphasize a supportive work environment and patient care.
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Unified Women’s Healthcare
Average Salary: $128,271
Unified Women’s Healthcare provides Certified Nurse Midwife jobs with a good salary. They have locations across the United States. They focus on comprehensive care and professional support.
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OnPoint Medical Group
Average Salary: $123,036
OnPoint Medical Group offers Certified Nurse Midwife jobs with a competitive salary. They serve the Denver area. They emphasize a supportive work environment and patient-centered care.
How to earn more as a Certified Nurse Midwife?
Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) have the opportunity to earn more by focusing on several key factors. These professionals can enhance their earnings through experience, specialization, and location. Gaining experience in different healthcare settings can broaden a CNM's skill set and make them more valuable. Specialization in areas such as neonatal care or women's health can also lead to higher pay. Working in high-demand areas or regions with a shortage of healthcare providers can result in better compensation packages.
Additionally, pursuing advanced degrees or certifications can open up higher-paying positions. CNMs who become educators or take on leadership roles can see significant salary increases. Networking with other professionals and staying updated on industry trends can lead to more job opportunities and higher salaries. By focusing on these areas, CNMs can maximize their earning potential and advance their careers.
Here are five key factors to consider:
- Gain experience in various healthcare settings.
- Specialize in high-demand areas like neonatal care.
- Work in regions with a shortage of healthcare providers.
- Pursue advanced degrees or certifications.
- Network with other professionals and stay updated on industry trends.



