MCC
Nurse Midwife

The definitive guide to becoming a Nurse Midwife. Explore salary data, accredited schools, and job opportunities.

Avg Salary

$128,790

/yr

Job Growth

6%

High

New Jobs

194,500

Workforce

0.0M

How Much Does a Nurse Midwife Make in United States in 2026

Comprehensive salary data for Nurse Midwifes in United States. Analyze earnings by percentile, compare with national averages, and identify top-paying locations.

Earning Potential Curve

Salary growth potential for Nurse Midwife

The healthcare industry continues to face high demand for skilled professionals, and Nurse Midwifes are no exception. As we look towards 2026, understanding the salary landscape is crucial for both new entrants and seasoned professionals. If you are considering a career path as a Nurse Midwife, you're likely asking: "How much does a Nurse Midwife actually make in United States?"

According to the latest available data, the average annual salary for a Nurse Midwife in United States is $128,790, which breaks down to approximately $61.92 per hour. However, this single figure doesn't tell the whole story. Your actual take-home pay can vary dramatically based on your experience level, the specific facility you work in, and even the city you call home.

For those just starting their journey, entry-level Nurse Midwife positions typically offer a starting base pay around $74,670 per year ($35.90/hr). While this is the starting point, the potential for growth is significant.

With a few years of experience under your belt, you can expect to move into the mid-tier earning bracket. Experienced Nurse Midwifes often command salaries upwards of $146,520 annually, with the most highly skilled and specialized top 10% of earners making over $177,040 per year.

Geographically, opportunities abound. States like California currently lead the nation in compensation, offering some of the most competitive wages for Nurse Midwifes. Whether you are looking to work in a bustling metropolitan hub like San Francisco or a quieter rural setting, maximizing your earning potential starts with understanding these numbers.

Salary by State

Salary by State

RankStateMedian Salaryvs NationalJobs
1California$196,700+53%880
2Massachusetts$155,710+21%190
3Washington$145,000+13%150
4Vermont$140,240+9%40
5Virginia$139,770+9%0
6Utah$138,020+7%100
7New York$137,860+7%490
8Iowa$136,450+6%70
9New Hampshire$135,860+5%50
10New Jersey$135,680+5%190

Top 10 Paying Cities

What factors affect Nurse Midwife salary?

Geographic Location & Cost of Living: This is often the single biggest factor. A Nurse Midwife working in a high-cost-of-living area like San Francisco or New York City will naturally see a higher paycheck than one in a rural town, simply to match local living expenses.

Years of Experience: Healthcare values tenure. As you transition from a novice Nurse Midwife to a seasoned veteran, your efficiency and clinical judgment improve. Employers reward this reliability with steady pay increases, often seeing jumps of 20-30% over a decade.

Industry Setting: Not all healthcare facilities pay the same. Working in a general medical and surgical hospital often pays better than a private physician's office. Specialized outpatient care centers can sometimes offer even higher premiums due to the specialized nature of the work.

Shift Differentials: Healthcare is a 24/7 operation. Nurse Midwifes who are willing to cover "unsocial" hours—nights, weekends, and holidays—often receive shift differential pay. This can add significantly to your annual gross income compared to a standard 9-to-5 shift.

Certifications & Specializations: Going beyond the basics pays off. Obtaining advanced certifications or specializing in areas like acute care or geriatrics can make you a more valuable asset to your employer, justifying a higher hourly wage.