How Much Do DNPs Make?

What is the average doctor of nursing practice (DNP) salary? On average, DNP nurses make $117,859 annually or $57 an hour, according to ZipRecruiter. Payscale reports a similar doctor of nursing practice salary of $111,000 annually or $55.13 an hour.

While national average DNP salary statistics offer a starting point, they don't capture the complete picture. Factors like location, industry specialization, and experience play a crucial role in determining actual DNP pay. Keep reading to find out more details about DNP salary in 2025.

Your DNP nursing salary will vary depending on which state you live in. But remember, many higher-paying states also have higher living costs and vice versa for lower-paying states. So practicing in Washington may not provide more spending power than in North Carolina, despite WA DNPs earning $50K more annually.

Understanding DNP salary expectations in your state can help you decide whether a DNP is the right path for you.

Via ZipRecruiter; Accessed August 2023

DNP salary also varies by city. In general, metropolitan areas have higher-paying DNP jobs, while rural areas offer lower salaries. Let’s take a closer look at DNP salaries in different cities.

Highest-Paying Cities for DNPs

ZipRecruiter reports that the highest-paying cities for DNPs are:

After earning a DNP, you might be able to work a variety of different jobs. DNP nurses can have a background in any advanced practice nursing specialty, earning the following salaries:

• Nurse practitioner (NP): $126,260 per year
• Certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA):  $212,650 per year
• Nurse educator: $80,780 per year
• Certified nurse midwife (CNM): $129,650 per year
• Nurse manager: $110,680 per year

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

Since MSN and DNP-prepared nurses often take on similar roles in healthcare settings, the BLS does not differentiate between their degrees in salary reports.

The BLS does not differentiate between MSN- and DNP-prepared nurses. However, MSN nurse salaries will typically be less than those with a DNP. 

Most employers compensate nurses with a DNP, which is a terminal degree, for their advanced expertise. For example, Payscale reports that MSN-prepared nurses make an average of $102,000 per year, while DNP nurses make $111,000.

Short answer- yes! From DNP salary expectations to expanding your career, earning a DNP can be worth your time.

However, this may depend on the type of job you have and if you need a DNP for it. For example, CRNAs and nurse administrators can expect to earn their DNP as it will be helpful, or required in the case of CRNAs, for their profession.

Earning a DNP takes time and commitment and can come with a hefty price tag. It will be up to you if this is a feasible option. Finishing a DNP program can lead to countless job opportunities as it illustrates a mastery of a profession and a commitment to advancing your education and abilities.

Learn more about earning this terminal nursing degree with our DNP meaning guide and DNP programs guide.