Anesthesiologist assistants (AAs) are advanced practitioners who work under the supervision of physician anesthesiologists to administer anesthesia and monitor patients during surgical procedures.
They practice in the anesthesia care team model.
As of 2026, AAs are among the highest-paid non-physician healthcare practitioners.
While the BLS does not separately report wages for AAs, professional surveys indicate median annual compensation typically between $180,000 and $220,000, placing AAs near or above the level of nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) in many markets.
For the supervising physician's compensation data, see our guide on the anesthesiologist salary.
Anesthesiologist Assistant Salary Overview
The BLS groups AAs within the broader anesthesiologist assistant/health diagnosing category.
Professional association data suggests median annual compensation for AAs in the $180,000 to $220,000 range.
Compensation varies by geographic location, hospital system size, and work schedule (e.g., call coverage obligations).
AAs are among the highest-paid allied health practitioners — significantly above the median for roles like a registered nurse salary (~$81,000) or a nurse practitioner salary (~$121,000).
Their compensation reflects the highly specialized, high-acuity nature of anesthesia care.
For additional context on allied health pay, see how AAs compare to an occupational therapist salary and a radiologist salary.
For a complete breakdown of how any hourly wage in these ranges translates to annual, monthly, weekly, and after-tax take-home, see our hourly-to-annual salary conversion guides.
AA vs. CRNA Salary Comparison
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) have a BLS-reported median of approximately $212,650.
AAs in similar anesthesia care team settings often earn comparably, though CRNA wages are generally better documented and more consistent nationally.
AAs are currently licensed in fewer states than CRNAs, which may limit geographic earning opportunities.
CRNAs have broader state practice authority and can practice independently in some states, which affects earning potential.
AAs, by contrast, practice under physician anesthesiologist supervision in all currently licensing states — a distinction that shapes both compensation and practice model.
Both roles are part of the broader highest-paid nursing specialties and advanced practice landscape.
Education Requirements
AAs hold master's degrees from accredited AA programs (typically 2 years of graduate training after a pre-medical undergraduate degree).
The Anesthesiologist Assistant Certifying Exam (AACE) administered by the National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants (NCCAA) is required for certification.
The total training pathway — typically 4 years undergraduate followed by a 2-year master's program — is shorter than most doctoral health programs, yet the resulting compensation is among the highest in allied health.
AAs who carry graduate school debt should be aware of the student loan interest deduction and should explore maximizing a Roth IRA in early attending years before income may exceed contribution limits.
Scope of Practice and State Licensure
AAs practice in fewer states than CRNAs, as state laws governing AA practice vary. Most states that license AAs require supervision by a physician anesthesiologist. The number of states recognizing AA practice has grown in recent years, expanding employment options.
AAs considering relocation to maximize opportunities should evaluate both state licensure status and cost of living.
The cost of living in Florida and the cost of living in Texas — two states with growing AA programs and no state income tax — may offer particularly favorable real after-tax income compared to states with similar nominal salaries but higher tax burdens.
AAs in high-income markets should also develop a clear strategy for how much to contribute to a 401(k) each year to build long-term wealth efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do anesthesiologist assistants earn in 2026?
Professional surveys indicate median annual compensation for AAs in the $180,000 to $220,000 range, though BLS does not separately report AA wages.
Are AAs the same as CRNAs?
No. AAs hold master's degrees and practice under physician anesthesiologist supervision. CRNAs are advanced practice registered nurses in anesthesia. Both work in the anesthesia care team but have different educational backgrounds and licensing frameworks.
What degree do anesthesiologist assistants need?
A master's degree from an accredited anesthesiologist assistant program is required, followed by passing the AACE certification exam and obtaining state licensure where applicable.
In which states can anesthesiologist assistants practice?
As of 2026, AAs are licensed to practice in a growing number of states.
Specific state licensure requirements vary; the American Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants (AAAA) maintains current state-by-state information.
States with large hospital systems and favorable practice laws — including Florida and Texas — are common employer markets.
Is anesthesiologist assisting a good career?
Yes.
AAs earn among the highest salaries of all non-physician healthcare practitioners, work in a critical care specialty, and benefit from growing recognition across more states.
High earners in this role should work toward strong retirement savings targets and understand how net worth by age percentile benchmarks apply to their income tier.
Sources & References
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Nurse Anesthetists (Comparison Reference) — https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291151.htm
- American Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants — AA Career Information — https://www.aaaa.org/
- National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants — Certification — https://www.nccaa.net/
Last updated: April 27, 2026