CRNA Locum Tenens Pay Explained: Rates, Pros, and Trade-Offs

Locum tenens work has become increasingly popular among Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), especially for those seeking higher pay, flexibility, or short-term assignments.

But how much do locum CRNAs actually make — and what are the trade-offs?

In this guide, we break down CRNA locum tenens pay, explain how rates compare to permanent roles, and help you decide whether locum work fits your career and lifestyle goals.

What Is Locum Tenens for CRNAs?

Locum tenens refers to temporary or contract-based work, often used to fill staffing gaps in hospitals, surgery centers, or rural facilities.

Locum CRNAs typically:

• Work as independent contractors (1099)
• Take short-term or flexible assignments
• Receive higher hourly rates than permanent staff
• Are not provided traditional employee benefits

Assignments can range from a few days to several months.

Average CRNA Locum Tenens Pay

CRNA locum tenens pay is usually quoted as an hourly rate rather than an annual salary.

Typical locum CRNA rates:

• $150–$200+ per hour
• Higher rates for:
  • Rural locations
  • High call burden
  • Short-notice coverage
  • Independent practice settings

When annualized, locum CRNA income can exceed $280,000–$350,000+, depending on workload and time off.

Why Locum CRNAs Earn More

Higher pay reflects the nature of locum work.

Facilities pay a premium because:

• Assignments are temporary
• There is no long-term commitment
• Benefits are not included
• Coverage is often urgent or high-need

The higher hourly rate compensates for uncertainty and lack of traditional job security.

Expenses Locum CRNAs Must Consider

While gross pay is higher, locum CRNAs are responsible for expenses typically covered by employers.

Common expenses include:

• Self-employment taxes
• Health insurance
• Retirement contributions
• Malpractice insurance (sometimes covered)
• Travel and housing (sometimes covered)

Net income depends on how well these costs are managed.

Lifestyle Pros of Locum Tenens Work

Many CRNAs choose locum work for reasons beyond pay.

Benefits may include:

• Flexible schedules
• Geographic variety
• Control over time off
• Ability to work intensely, then take extended breaks

For some, this flexibility outweighs the lack of benefits.

Lifestyle Cons of Locum Tenens Work

Locum work is not ideal for everyone.

Potential drawbacks include:

• Inconsistent income
• Frequent travel
• Less predictable schedules
• Limited integration into care teams

It may be less appealing for those seeking long-term stability.

Locum Tenens vs Permanent CRNA Roles

Locum roles are often compared to permanent W-2 or 1099 positions.

• Locum CRNAs: Higher hourly pay, less stability, more flexibility
• Permanent CRNAs: Lower hourly pay, more benefits, predictable schedules

Some CRNAs alternate between locum and permanent roles throughout their careers.

When Locum Tenens Makes Sense

Locum work may be a strong option if you:

• Want to accelerate debt repayment
• Value flexibility over benefits
• Are early or late in your career
• Enjoy travel or varied environments

Intentional planning is key to making locum work sustainable.

Where This Pay Data Comes From

The locum CRNA pay ranges in this article are based on:

• Publicly listed locum CRNA job postings across multiple states
• Compensation ranges reported by anesthesia staffing agencies
• Industry observations from CRNA locum and 1099 markets
• Aggregate trends compared with BLS nurse anesthetist wage data

Wise CRNA uses ranges rather than single numbers to reflect variation by region, assignment length, call requirements, and experience.

Final Thoughts

CRNA locum tenens pay can be significantly higher than permanent roles, but it comes with trade-offs.

When approached strategically, locum work can be a powerful tool for income growth, flexibility, or career transition.

Wise CRNA exists to help you understand these options clearly — so you can choose what works best for you.