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The median annual salary for physician assistants is $133,260 per year, according to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is significantly more (about twice) the average pay of all jobs in the U.S. as of January 30, 2026.

Working as a physician assistant can be a fulfilling way to have a career in the medical industry without having to spend as much time or money on school as a doctor. Like doctors, physician assistants stand to make a lot of money and can save on tuition costs since they typically only need a master’s degree to work in this role.

Keep reading to learn more about what physician assistants do and how much money they make.

What Are Physician Assistants?

A physician assistant is capable of performing a lot of tasks a medical doctor would perform, such as conducting patient examinations, diagnosing illnesses, and delivering treatments. They complete their work under physician supervision, and their day-to-day responsibilities can include tasks such as:

•   Obtaining and reviewing medical histories

•   Ordering diagnostic tests

•   Prescribing medications

•   Collaborating with health care teams

A physician assistant can specialize in a specific health care field, such as primary care, emergency medicine, and psychiatry, which can affect their job responsibilities.

As mentioned above, these individuals typically have a master’s degree, which is usually a requirement for licensing. However, you don’t need to go to and pay for medical school.

Job opportunities are likely to be plentiful. The projected growth over 2024-2034 is 20%, which is very well above the single-digit average for most professions.

💡 Quick Tip: We love a good spreadsheet, but not everyone feels the same. An online budget planner can give you the same insight into your budgeting and spending at a glance, without the extra effort.

How Much Do Starting Physician Assistants Make a Year?

Like with any career, it takes time to earn a high salary when working as a physician assistant. When a physician assistant is entry-level, their salary may compare with the lowest 10% of earners in this role, who make $99,380 or less, but there’s a lot of room for improvement here.

The highest 10% of earners make more than $190,280. In other words, it’s indeed possible to earn $100,000 a year.

What is the Average Salary for a Physician Assistant?

The answer to the question, “How much money does a physician assistant make?” can vary depending on where a physician assistant works. Some jobs will pay more due to location. The following table illustrates the average salary for this role in each state, and a quick glance makes it clear that there’s a lot of variance in pay by state. For example, a physician assistant in Washington makes $46,318 more on average than someone in this role in Florida, which is quite a gap.

The table below shares how much a physician assistant job pays both by state and by different rates, including hourly pay, from highest to lowest.

Recommended: Best Jobs for Extroverts That Pay Well

What Is the Average Physician Assistant Salary by State for 2026

State	Annual Salary	Monthly Pay	Weekly Pay	Hourly
Washington	$136,152	$11,346	$2,618	$65.46
New York	$131,516	$10,959	$2,529	$63.23
Massachusetts	$131,287	$10,940	$2,524	$63.12
Alaska	$129,462	$10,788	$2,489	$62.24
Vermont	$127,816	$10,651	$2,458	$61.45
North Dakota	$127,194	$10,599	$2,446	$61.15
Oregon	$127,099	$10,591	$2,444	$61.11
Colorado	$126,405	$10,533	$2,430	$60.77
Hawaii	$124,896	$10,408	$2,401	$60.05
Nevada	$122,413	$10,201	$2,354	$58.85
New Jersey	$122,044	$10,170	$2,347	$58.67
Wisconsin	$121,337	$10,111	$2,333	$58.34
Pennsylvania	$120,501	$10,041	$2,317	$57.93
Delaware	$120,316	$10,026	$2,313	$57.84
South Dakota	$120,212	$10,017	$2,311	$57.79
Virginia	$119,181	$9,931	$2,291	$57.30
California	$118,638	$9,886	$2,281	$57.04
Minnesota	$117,737	$9,811	$2,264	$56.60
Rhode Island	$117,725	$9,810	$2,263	$56.60
New Hampshire	$116,907	$9,742	$2,248	$56.21
Maryland	$116,671	$9,722	$2,243	$56.09
New Mexico	$116,495	$9,707	$2,240	$56.01
Illinois	$116,489	$9,707	$2,240	$56.00
Maine	$116,389	$9,699	$2,238	$55.96
Wyoming	$115,551	$9,629	$2,222	$55.55
Nebraska	$114,616	$9,551	$2,204	$55.10
Indiana	$114,390	$9,532	$2,199	$55.00
Connecticut	$114,356	$9,529	$2,199	$54.98
Ohio	$114,285	$9,523	$2,197	$54.94
Mississippi	$113,849	$9,487	$2,189	$54.74
Idaho	$113,107	$9,425	$2,175	$54.38
Iowa	$112,911	$9,409	$2,171	$54.28
Missouri	$112,760	$9,396	$2,168	$54.21
Arizona	$112,024	$9,335	$2,154	$53.86
Texas	$111,996	$9,333	$2,153	$53.84
South Carolina	$111,552	$9,296	$2,145	$53.63
Oklahoma	$110,996	$9,249	$2,134	$53.36
Montana	$110,336	$9,194	$2,121	$53.05
Utah	$109,438	$9,119	$2,104	$52.61
North Carolina	$109,249	$9,104	$2,100	$52.52
Tennessee	$109,107	$9,092	$2,098	$52.46
Alabama	$108,959	$9,079	$2,095	$52.38
Kansas	$107,211	$8,934	$2,061	$51.54
Michigan	$104,776	$8,731	$2,014	$50.37
Kentucky	$104,408	$8,700	$2,007	$50.20
Louisiana	$102,796	$8,566	$1,976	$49.42
Georgia	$101,505	$8,458	$1,952	$48.80
Arkansas	$99,404	$8,283	$1,911	$47.79
West Virginia	$93,065	$7,755	$1,789	$44.74
Florida	$89,834	$7,486	$1,727	$43.19

Source: ZipRecruiter

Physician Assistant Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

It’s very common to work full-time as a physician assistant, which typically means that in addition to competitive pay, these professionals gain access to employer-sponsored benefits.

These may include:

•   Health insurance

•   Retirement plans

•   Paid sick days

•   Paid vacation

The tradeoff for a great compensation package can be having to work long hours or be on call. In addition, you may be exposed to medical emergencies, which can be stressful, and germs.

In addition, a career as a physician assistant requires much interaction with patients and the other members of the medical team. For this reason, it may not be a top choice as a job for antisocial people.

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Pros and Cons of Physician Assistant Salary

The main advantage of a physician assistant salary is that it’s well over the national average for all jobs, which is $64,505 as of May 30, 2026. As you have seen, a physician assistant can possibly make twice that amount.

This high take-home pay may make it easier to create and stick to a monthly budget.

The only real downside of this salary is that to earn it, a master’s degree is necessary, which could lead to student loan debt.

Recommended: How to Calculate Your Net Worth

The Takeaway

Building a career as a physician assistant can lead to making a high salary of $133,000-plus on average, or more than $190,280 for the top 10% of earners in this role. Many find this career path preferable to becoming a doctor, as it requires spending a lot less time in school, and the degree requirements come with a much lower sticker price. It’s also a fulfilling role for those who enjoy helping others.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

SoFi helps you stay on top of your finances.

FAQ

Can you make 100K a year as a physician assistant?

It’s very possible to earn $100,000 a year or more as a physician assistant. The median annual salary for this job is $133,260, and only the bottom 10% of earners in this specific role make less than $99,380.

Do people like being a physician assistant?

Those who are passionate about the medical field and who enjoy working with people tend to get a lot of job satisfaction from working as a physician assistant. However, an introvert may dislike how social this job requires them to be.

Is it hard to get hired as a physician assistant?

The good news for prospective physician assistants is that there are plenty of job openings to be found in this field, with a rapid growth of 20% from 2024-2034. And there’s an average projection of approximately 12,000 job openings annually.

What factors can affect a physician assistant’s salary?

A physician assistant’s salary can vary based on factors such as geographic location, years of experience, specialty, and employer. Those who work in higher-paying states or specialized areas of medicine may earn significantly more than the national median salary.

What are the benefits of becoming a physician assistant?

Becoming a physician assistant can provide strong earning potential, job stability, and the opportunity to make a difference in patients’ lives. The role also typically requires less schooling and lower educational costs than becoming a physician while still offering many clinical responsibilities.

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Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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The average salary for pediatricians is $222,340, according to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. There are many different paths a doctor can take when it comes to choosing their medical specialty. Doctors who enjoy helping children feel their best and live healthy lives will likely find a lot of fulfillment as a pediatrician.

To learn more about how much a pediatrician makes a year, keep reading.

What Are Pediatricians?

A pediatrician is a type of doctor who provides medical care to children ranging from infancy to adolescence. They specialize in diagnosing and treating injuries, developmental issues, and illnesses children commonly experience. From routine exams to issuing vaccines to providing medicine to sick children, pediatricians can help.

The path to becoming a pediatrician is a long and expensive one. Typically, that means college, medical school, a residency, and possibly a fellowship. Medical school can easily cost over $200,000 in total tuition. It’s wise to consider this investment when pursuing a career as a pediatrician. Many doctors have a high amount of medical school debt when starting out.

Also, keep in mind that being a pediatrician involves interacting with children and their families all day. Therefore, this may not be the best job for introverts.

💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

How Much Do Starting Pediatricians Make a Year?

While pediatricians can eventually earn very competitive salaries, like any job, they tend to earn less when they are entry-level. The lowest 10% of earners in this role make $96,240, which is significantly lower than the average salary for all pediatricians, at $222,340.

What is the Average Salary for a Pediatrician?

On average, a pediatrician can make a salary that is considerably higher than the American average for all jobs. Where a pediatrician chooses to work can greatly impact how much they earn. This is a quick glance at the annual mean wage for a variety of workplaces where a pediatrician may be employed:

•   Offices of physicians: $231,140

•   General medical and surgical hospitals: $201,860

•   Outpatient care centers: $236,720

•   Colleges, universities, and professional schools: $166,090

•   Specialty (except psychiatric and substance abuse) hospitals: $171,290

Another factor that also affects pediatrician earning potential is the state the doctor works in. The table below highlights how average pediatrician salaries vary by state, with typical pay arranged from highest to lowest by location.

In addition, it shares how much a pediatrician’s hourly pay vs. salary is.

What Is the Average Pediatrician Salary by State for 2026

State	Annual Salary	Monthly Pay	Weekly Pay	Hourly Wage
Washington	$218,033	$18,169	$4,192	$104.82
New York	$210,610	$17,550	$4,050	$101.25
Massachusetts	$210,242	$17,520	$4,043	$101.08
Alaska	$207,320	$17,276	$3,986	$99.67
Vermont	$204,684	$17,057	$3,936	$98.41
North Dakota	$203,688	$16,974	$3,917	$97.93
Oregon	$203,535	$16,961	$3,914	$97.85
Colorado	$202,425	$16,868	$3,892	$97.32
Hawaii	$200,007	$16,667	$3,846	$96.16
Nevada	$196,031	$16,335	$3,769	$94.25
New Jersey	$195,440	$16,286	$3,758	$93.96
Wisconsin	$194,308	$16,192	$3,736	$93.42
Pennsylvania	$192,970	$16,080	$3,710	$92.77
Delaware	$192,673	$16,056	$3,705	$92.63
South Dakota	$192,507	$16,042	$3,702	$92.55
Virginia	$190,856	$15,904	$3,670	$91.76
California	$189,986	$15,832	$3,653	$91.34
Minnesota	$188,544	$15,712	$3,628	$90.65
Rhode Island	$188,525	$15,710	$3,625	$90.64
New Hampshire	$187,215	$15,601	$3,600	$90.01
Maryland	$186,836	$15,569	$3,593	$89.83
New Mexico	$186,554	$15,546	$3,587	$89.69
Illinois	$186,544	$15,545	$3,587	$89.68
Maine	$186,385	$15,532	$3,584	$89.61
Wyoming	$185,042	$15,420	$3,558	$88.96
Nebraska	$183,546	$15,295	$3,529	$88.24
Indiana	$183,183	$15,265	$3,522	$88.07
Connecticut	$183,130	$15,260	$3,521	$88.04
Ohio	$183,016	$15,251	$3,519	$87.99
Mississippi	$182,318	$15,193	$3,506	$87.65
Idaho	$181,129	$15,094	$3,483	$87.08
Iowa	$180,816	$15,068	$3,477	$86.93
Missouri	$180,573	$15,047	$3,472	$86.81
Arizona	$179,395	$14,949	$3,449	$86.25
Texas	$179,350	$14,945	$3,449	$86.23
South Carolina	$178,638	$14,886	$3,435	$85.88
Oklahoma	$177,749	$14,812	$3,418	$85.46
Montana	$176,692	$14,724	$3,397	$84.95
Utah	$175,253	$14,604	$3,370	$84.26
North Carolina	$174,951	$14,579	$3,364	$84.11
Tennessee	$174,723	$14,560	$3,360	$84.00
Alabama	$174,486	$14,540	$3,355	$83.89
Kansas	$171,688	$14,307	$3,301	$82.54
Michigan	$167,788	$13,982	$3,226	$80.67
Kentucky	$167,198	$13,933	$3,215	$80.38
Louisiana	$164,618	$13,718	$3,165	$79.14
Georgia	$162,550	$13,545	$3,125	$78.15
Arkansas	$159,185	$13,265	$3,061	$76.53
West Virginia	$149,033	$12,419	$2,866	$71.65
Florida	$143,859	$11,988	$2,766	$69.16

Source: ZipRecruiter

Recommended: What Is a Six-Figure Salary?

Pediatrician Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

Alongside earning a $100,000 salary or more, most pediatricians also receive superior employee benefits. If a pediatrician runs their own practice, they will need to supply themselves and their employees with these benefits.

Those who are employed by employers such as hospitals or medical groups can expect to gain access to benefits such as paid time off, health insurance, and retirement accounts. They may also have unique benefits, including continuing education allowances and malpractice insurance coverage.

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Pros and Cons of Pediatrician Salary

The main advantage associated with competitive pay for pediatricians is that it’s quite high. With an average salary of $222,340, pediatricians are greatly rewarded for their hard work.

However, they must pursue many years of higher education to earn that salary. Many young doctors struggle under the weight of their student loan payments. So while this salary may seem high at first glance, much of it may go toward student loan debt initially.

It’s also worthwhile to consider your work-life balance. Being a pediatrician and improving the health of children may be a very rewarding career, but it also involves long, tiring hours and being on call for patients on nights and weekends. Medical problems and emergencies crop up all the time, so this is a factor to acknowledge.

Recommended: Average US Salary by State

The Takeaway

Pediatricians can earn very high pay while making a big difference in the lives of their patients and their families. They do have to commit to many years of schooling and education to become a pediatrician, but once they do, they can earn a great living.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

SoFi helps you stay on top of your finances.

FAQ

Can you make $100k a year as a pediatrician?

Most pediatricians make $100,000 a year or more, especially after gaining a few years of work experience. The average salary for a pediatrician is $222,340.

Do people like being a pediatrician?

Pursuing a career in pediatric medicine is a major commitment, and those who are passionate about this field and patient care are likely to really enjoy their work. However, this role requires many hours of patient interaction a day, so even if someone finds the work fascinating, it won’t be a good fit for them if they’re antisocial.

Is it hard to get hired as a pediatrician?

The main challenge in getting hired as a pediatrician is not having the right credentials. Potential pediatricians must pursue medical school and any required medical licenses in order to find a job in this field, which is no easy feat.

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Photo credit: iStock/alvarez

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

SORL-Q226-024

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As nice as a spa day or yoga class is, sometimes the best form of self-care doesn’t cost anything at all. It’s financial self-care, and practicing it may help you manage your money.

Financial self-care involves taking steps to avoid financial stress and meet financial goals. According to a 2025 report from the American Psychological Association, 66% of Americans say money is a significant source of stress, so practicing financial self-care can be a very good thing.

But what exactly does financial self-care mean, and how do you do it? Read on to find out.

What Is Financial Self-Care?

Financial self-care is a form of self-care that focuses on financial wellness. Essentially, instead of more traditional self-care activities (such as getting massages or enjoying dinners out), you learn the best way to manage your finances and improve your financial situation. This may not sound fun, but worrying about debt, paying the bills, and falling short of savings goals can all lead to a lot of stress that can be draining both physically and mentally. Self-care and money can go hand in hand.

Here’s another perk: Once you get your financial life under control, you’ll have more money to put toward the more exciting areas of self-care. Whether that means finally splurging on that cleaning service or a new puppy is up to you.

Tips for Practicing Financial Self-Care

Self-care and money can combine in the pursuit of financial self-care. Here are some strategies to help incorporate this form of self-care into daily life.

Creating Realistic Financial Goals

To make strides in the area of financial self-care, it’s important to set reasonable goals. That way, you can make progress and feel a positive boost when you finally do reach a goal. Here’s an example: Paying off your student debt in a single year would likely be hard even on a high salary. Instead, having a goal of paying off your highest-interest debt (perhaps a credit card balance) in a year may be more attainable. Look at your income versus your monthly necessary expenses (the “musts” in your life), and see if you can begin funneling some of the funds left over after bill-paying toward your debt.

Tracking Your Expenses Daily

Impulse spending can feel good in the moment, but it can do a lot of harm. You can be more mindful about your spending by reviewing your personal finances daily and focusing on where your cash is spent. You may not realize just how much money flows away from you on a typical day. Expense tracking will reveal that. On days that you don’t spend much or anything at all, give yourself a big pat on the back. You’ve just taken care of yourself financially.

Checking Your Banking Accounts Frequently

Good cash management is an important part of hitting your financial goals. Alongside tracking your daily spending, it can be helpful to check bank account balances daily or at least a couple of times a week. You’ll see where you stand financially and won’t be caught unaware by a low balance. This process will also give you a deeper look at how any automatic bill payments are impacting your cash flow.

After all, most people don’t see the money they earn or spend in cold, hard cash, so it can feel less tangible. Your paycheck may be directly deposited into your checking account, for example. When you know exactly where you stand financially, it can empower you and help better inform your purchasing decisions.

Making Any Needed Changes to Budgets

After keeping an eye on spending habits and account balances, it’s a good idea to review your monthly budget goals and see how you’re doing. Perhaps you put a reminder in your calendar to do a quick check-in on the last day of every month and see how things look. Maybe eating lunch out on weekdays has made it hard to stick to your food budget for the month. Perhaps having too many subscription services left no wiggle room in the entertainment section of the budget.

The end of the month is the perfect time to reevaluate spending habits, to see where you can cut back on spending, and to figure out how to increase savings.

Focusing On Getting Rid of Debt

Debt is likely part of your life, but it can also cause a lot of worry. Thanks to interest charges, debt can mount and be hard to pay off. So, when you have some extra money, sure, you might spend it on a new outfit or a weekend getaway and lift your spirits that way. Or you could pay down your debt instead.

By prioritizing debt, you’d be a step closer to eliminating some money stress from your life. Getting rid of debt can be a key aspect of financial self-care and can reduce money-related anxiety.

Improving Your Mindset on Money

Self-care has just as much to do with someone’s mental health as their physical health. Feeling negative about money can really drag a person down. That’s why it can be helpful to focus on what you have instead of what you don’t have.

If you’re feeling as if you can’t compete with other people’s lifestyles, it may be that your comparison framework is skewed. It may be beneficial to take a break from social media (or unfollow certain luxury accounts), stop watching reality TV, or skip hanging out with that friend who earns and spends big.

Recognizing what your money can do for you rather than feeling deprived is an important step. It can be a very empowering mindset to adopt.

Improving Financial Literacy

Money can be intimidating in part because most people lack a basic financial education. While you may not have learned about money management in school, you can teach yourself the financial basics and beyond. Knowledge is power, after all.

From learning about how credit scores work to the investing basics, take some time to read up on the financial topics that seem confusing. Also, look into apps that help you with budgeting, saving, and tracking your spending. These tools can be part of financial self-care, helping to boost your financial literacy and wellness.

Visualizing Retirement and Investing in It

Financial self-care means taking care of today’s and tomorrow’s needs. Retirement can seem like a distant concept, so try picturing your future self at retirement age and how you’d want to live then. That way, you may feel more motivated to save even though retirement is far away. Look at your budget again to see if there’s room to improve your retirement savings. Even saving an extra 1% a month can make a major impact.

Respecting Money

Money is a tool and a very valuable one at that. Embracing financial self-care means recognizing that money isn’t just about buying things. That may be the easy and fun part, but saving and investing it is what really makes the most of your cash. Educating yourself on saving and investing or seeking professional advice may help you harness the full power of the money you make. Money is a force to be reckoned with — respecting its importance could help you achieve your financial and lifestyle goals.

Why Financial Self-Care Is Important

Financial self-care is equally important, if not more so, than more traditional forms of self-care, such as heading to the spa or taking a personal day off work. When you prioritize financial self-care, you can work to reduce money stress and move closer to your short- and long-term goals.

The Takeaway

Financial self-care can be a way to help reduce money stress and make the most of what you earn. Being smart about your cash and building your savings can unlock the good things in life today and in the future. Try practicing some financial self-care ideas and see if you don’t feel more in control of your money and less stressed about it.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

Better banking is here with SoFi, named the #1 Bank in the U.S. for the fourth year in a row by Forbes (2026).* Enjoy up to 3.10% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

Why is financial self-care important?

Financial self-care can help reduce financial stress in your life. Specifically, prioritizing financial self-care may make it easier to reach financial goals, such as paying down debt or saving for retirement.

How do you take care of yourself and your money?

Budgeting, focusing on debt repayment, and setting clear savings goals are all good ways to take care of yourself and your money. Not having to worry about too much debt or overdue bills is another potential benefit of financial self-care.

How do I respect my money?

Respecting money involves not wasting it and instead looking for ways to make the most of it. Being mindful about purchases, sticking to savings goals, and not taking on high-interest debt are all ways someone can respect their money.

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Certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) are registered nurses (RNs) with graduate-level education who provide anesthetics to patients in surgical and other procedures.

Currently, nurse anesthetists must have an RN license and a master’s degree from a nurse anesthesia educational program accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Nurse anesthesia programs typically range in length 36 to 51 months. Starting in 2025, all CRNAs must have a Doctor in Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), according to the COA. It typically takes two years for a student with an MSN to earn a doctorate.

Continue reading for six tips that can help you learn how to pay for CRNA school.

How Much Does CRNA School Cost?

You may have already spent a few years paying for nursing school to get your RN degree, but how much does it cost to further your education to become a nurse anesthetist?

The total cost of CRNA school (including tuition, clinical fees, and other expenses) can vary widely, depending on whether you choose to attend an out-of-state institution, a private college, or an in-state university.

For example, the 2026-2027 tuition and fees at Loma Linda University in Loma Linda, California, are an estimated $170,243. In contrast, if you are already an RN with an MSN, the tuition and fees are approximately $45,030 at Arkansas State University. There are additional costs associated with a CRNA degree, such as books, supplies, licensing, insurance, and exam fees.

Note that the average nursing school cost can vary widely, ranging from $10,000 for an associate degree to over $200,000 for an advanced degree.

Recommended: Important FAFSA Deadlines to Know

6 Tips to Help You Pay for CRNA School

Let’s look at nine tips you can use to pay for CRNA school, from choosing a less expensive school to answering the question, “Will financial aid pay for CRNA school?”

1. Choose a Less Expensive School

You can save money by choosing a less expensive school or by having residency in the state where you want to attend school. For example, the total cost of attending Georgetown University’s DNAP program for the first year is $150,426, $92,561 for the second year, and $78,784 for the third year, regardless of residency.

The cost to attend the University of Iowa is $85,690 if you’re an in-state resident or $163,805 if you’re an out-of-state resident.

It’s important to compare and contrast the costs of several programs before you decide which school will both meet your needs and help you save money.

2. Save Money

You may also want to consider saving money for college to reduce the amount of money you’ll have to borrow for CRNA education. Knowing the costs of the schools on your shortlist can help you set aside a certain amount of money. However, remember that you may receive scholarships and grants that you don’t have to pay back. You might not need to save for the full cost of a nurse anesthetist program. One way to understand your exact costs is to meet with the financial aid offices of the schools you’re considering. They can give you an idea of the type of institutional financial aid you could qualify for.

There are a wide variety of ways to save, including through a general savings account, certificate of deposit, or a 529 plan — a state tax-advantaged plan that will allow you to withdraw funds tax-free to cover nearly any type of college expense. 529 plans may also have additional state or federal tax benefits.

3. FAFSA and Financial Aid

The FAFSA is a form you can complete to determine your eligibility for student financial aid, which can include scholarships, grants and federal student loans.

College grants are “free money” that you typically don’t have to pay back. The AANA offers members grants to develop health care policy, anesthesia science, education, clinical practice, and leadership opportunities. With the proper documentation, the Foundation will reimburse up to 15% of indirect costs. The best way to learn more is to ask questions through the financial aid offices of the schools you’re considering.

Like grants, you do not have to pay back scholarships and other aid awards. The AANA also offers scholarships. Students who are AANA members and currently enrolled in an accredited nurse anesthesia program may be eligible for scholarships as long as they are in good standing in their program, meet the application requirements, and apply online. In addition, the university you plan to attend may also offer merit-based scholarships. Contact your school’s financial aid office to see what they offer and how to apply.

Similar to student loans for undergrads, you can get student loans for graduate school, which must be repaid. As a graduate student, you may be eligible for federal Direct Unsubsidized loans that come from the U.S. Education Department. The benefits of federal loans include a six-month grace period before repayment and flexible repayment plans if you’re eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. This means that if you make 120 monthly payments under such a repayment plan, you might get your loans forgiven as long as you work full-time for a qualifying employer.

Note that Direct PLUS loans, also called Graduate PLUS loans, will no longer be available to grad students beginning July 1, 2026.

Learn more about the FAFSA with SoFi’s comprehensive FAFSA guide.

4. Work More

If you’re already working as a nurse, you may want to pick up more hours before you start your CRNA degree. Nurse anesthesia programs are labor-intensive, so most students find it difficult to work while attending CRNA school. However, you can save up as much as possible before starting school.

If you must work during your degree, you may want to limit your hours.

5. Get an Employer to Pay for Your Education

Will a hospital pay you to go to CRNA school? Hospitals and groups often offer tuition reimbursement to offset loan debt. However, you may have to sign a tuition reimbursement payback agreement, which means you may have to pay back your reimbursement if you leave the company within a specific period of time.

Ask your human resources office and read the fine print if your hospital has an agreement requiring you to repay tuition if you are laid off or fired.

6. Private Student Loans

Private student loans originate with a bank, credit union, or online lender, unlike government-offered federal student loans. Private student loans can fill in the gaps between tuition and your savings, grants, scholarships, and federal student loans.

It’s a good idea to explore the interest rates, fees, repayment terms, discharge, and repayment options among private student loan lenders.

The application process involves submitting your personal information, the school you plan to attend, your graduation date, and the loan amount you need. You must also agree to the lender’s terms and conditions.

It’s important to note that private student loans don’t offer the same borrower protections, such as income-driven repayment plans, as federal student loans, so they are typically considered an option only after you have thoroughly reviewed all other financing opportunities.

Recommended: Guide to Nursing Student Loans

How Much Can CRNAs Expect to Make?

Nurse anesthetists can expect to earn an average salary of $231,700, or $111.39 per hour. The job outlook for CRNAs will grow about 35% from 2022 to 2034 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The Takeaway

There are many ways to make your dreams of becoming a CRNA a reality. Everyone should file the FAFSA to qualify for federal loans, grants, and other types of funds. The AANA also offers scholarships that you may qualify for. Don’t forget to check with your employer and local businesses for other funds.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

Can you get paid for going to CRNA school?

You typically cannot get paid to attend Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) school, but universities often offer a wide variety of merit-based and need-based financial aid options. You may need to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to qualify for certain types of aid. Check with the financial aid offices at the universities you’re considering for more information about your financial aid options.

How much does CRNA school cost?

The cost of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) school depends on a wide range of factors, including whether you plan to attend an in-state or out-of-state institution or a private or public school. For example, the three-year program at Georgetown University, a private institution, costs $321,771. On the other hand, the three-year program at the University of Iowa for an in-state resident costs $85,690 or $163,805 for an out-of-state resident.

How much do CRNAs typically make?

As a nurse anesthetist, you can expect to make a median salary of $231,700 per year. That’s the equivalent of $111.39 per hour.

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Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.
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A Doctor of Pharmacy degree is a 4-year, licensed professional degree that teaches students how to fill prescription medications and educate patients about using prescriptions safely. Pharmacy school can be expensive, adding up to nearly $200,000.

With that price tag, it’s not a surprise that pharmacy students may have to rely on a few different sources of financing to pay for school, sometimes using a combination of savings, grants, scholarships, and federal and private student loans. This article will review pharmacy school costs, the amount pharmacists can make, and nine tips for paying for pharmacy school.

Key Points

How Much Does Pharmacy School Typically Cost?

The cost of pharmacy school can vary depending on where you enroll, the location of the institution, and the extent to which public dollars support the university you plan to attend. As mentioned, the complete cost of pharmacy school can add up to nearly $200,000, and this can swing higher for students who opt for an out-of-state institution. The American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) lists the tuition and fees for pharmacy school for the 2025-2026 academic year, which can help you compare costs across the pharmacy schools you may be considering.

For example, the first school on the list, Auburn University, costs $11,340 per year for in-state pharmacy students and $34,020 per year for out-of-state students. Mandatory fees cost $14,566 for 33 credit hours for students in their first year. However, in the fourth year, mandatory fees cost $13,316 for 46 credit hours.

It’s worthwhile to compare the costs of various institutions before you make a decision. However, remember that financial aid can potentially bring the costs down further, so don’t rely completely on the published tuition prices. A conversation with the financial aid office at each school may give you a more in-depth analysis of how much it will actually cost, taking your personal situation into account.

Is Pharmacy School Worth It?

For the right individual, pharmacy school can be worth it. The costs of pharmacy school may seem daunting, but the professional perks, ability to become a part of a health care team, job opportunities, and career stability mean that pharmacy school can be the right option for many individuals. The high salary of pharmacists may also make pharmacy school worth it.

How Much Can Pharmacists Make?

The 2024 median pay for pharmacists was $137,480 per year, or $66.10 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The job outlook for 2024-2034 will increase 5% in total, which is faster than average.

9 Tips for Paying for Pharmacy School

Think of paying for pharmacy school as dividing up a pie, as there are many ways to do this. For example, various pieces of the pie might be made up of scholarships, grants, loans, and money out of your own pocket. No matter how you slice the pie, every dollar you contribute is an investment into your career and your future. We’ll discuss scholarships, including university, pharmacy, and private scholarships as well as grants in the next section.

1. Scholarships

Scholarships are funds that you don’t have to pay back. You can get scholarships as a pharmacy student from a number of different sources, including the university that you plan to attend as well as through designated pharmacy and private scholarships.

It’s also worth considering your other interests beyond pharmacy. Scholarships may be awarded based on heritage, location, or even hobbies or special skills. Take some time to review if you have talents in other areas that may qualify you for additional scholarships.

University Scholarships

Pharmacy colleges and schools traditionally offer direct financial assistance to pharmacy students through various sources, including alumni associations and local chapters of pharmaceutical organizations and fraternities. Consider setting up a meeting with the financial aid office at the university you plan to attend to learn more about specific scholarships available for the pharmacy program.

Pharmacy Scholarships

Local and state pharmaceutical associations, practicing pharmacists, drug manufacturers, and wholesalers may also offer pharmacy scholarships to promising pharmacists. For example, seven pharmacy students annually can receive a $5,000 Walmart Community Pharmacy Scholarship. Students must be accepted or enrolled in the professional curriculum at a U.S. college or school of pharmacy and show evidence of leadership skills and academic success. They must also have a preference to serve rural or medically underserved patients.

Private Scholarships

Private scholarships come from companies, service groups, local or regional organizations, foundations, and individuals. For example, Tylenol offers a scholarship for students pursuing careers in health care, including pharmacy.

2. Grants

Like scholarships, you do not have to repay the money you receive from grants. Grants, which are typically based on need, can also be awarded based on merit. Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) automatically considers you for federal grants based on need. You may also become eligible for state grants. Your college or university can give you more information about the types of grants you’re eligible for through your pharmacy program.

3. Federal Student Loans

You may be wondering how to pay for pharmacy school without loans. It’s possible to do it through a combination of scholarships, grants, and savings, though many people take advantage of federal student loans through the U.S. Department of Education.

Federal student loans are a type of federal financial aid, and to apply, you must file the FAFSA. Learn more about the requirements for this application in SoFi’s comprehensive guide to the FAFSA. You can qualify for two types of federal student loans for pharmacy school: Direct PLUS Loans and Direct Unsubsidized Loans.

Federal student loans have fixed interest rates and benefits, such as income-driven repayment plans. Just like obtaining an auto loan or a mortgage, you must pay back these loans with interest.

Direct PLUS Loans

Pharmacy students can take advantage of Direct PLUS Loans, also called grad PLUS loans or direct grad PLUS loans, to help finance graduate and professional school. The grad PLUS loan comes from the U.S. Department of Education for graduate or professional students. In order to get one, your school must participate in the Direct Loan Program.

Please note, however, that grad PLUS loans will be discontinued for new borrowers after July 1, 2026. Borrowers who received a grad PLUS loan before June 30, 2026, can continue borrowing under current terms through the 2028-29 academic year.

The Direct PLUS Loan is not need-based, which means you can get it no matter your income level. You can borrow up to the full cost of attendance and use the money to pay for your tuition, room and board, and fees. Your school will subtract other financial aid you receive, such as scholarships, grants, and fellowships, from the full cost of attendance and award you the difference with a Direct PLUS Loan. The interest rate is 8.94% for Direct PLUS Loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2025 and before July 1, 2026.

Direct Unsubsidized Loans

Similar to student loans for undergraduates, you can tap into Direct Unsubsidized Loans. Unsubsidized means that the government doesn’t pay the interest while you’re in school and during the grace period. You can borrow up to $20,500 per year with this type of loan, and the interest rate is 7.94% if disbursed on or after July 1, 2025 and before July 1, 2026 for graduate students.

4. Private Student Loans

Private graduate student loans do not come from the federal government. This type of loan can come from a bank, credit union, or another financial institution and can be used to help finance your education. The amount you can borrow depends on the costs of your degree but also depends on your personal financial factors, such as your credit score and income.

You may have gotten advice that suggested exhausting all of your federal grant and loan options before considering private loans because interest rates are usually higher compared to federal student loans. Additionally, private student loans don’t qualify for the same borrower protections as federal student loans, such as income-driven repayment plans or deferment options. However, private student loans can be an option to consider if you need additional funding to cover your pharmacy school expenses.

Recommended: Things to Know Before Applying for Private Student Loans

5. PSLF Programs

The Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program is a federal student loan forgiveness program. More specifically, you may qualify to have the remaining balance on your Direct Loans forgiven after you have made 120 qualifying monthly payments under a qualifying repayment plan. You must work full-time for an employer that belongs to a qualifying organization, such as a federal, state, local, or tribal government organization or other nonprofit organization.

You must have Direct Loans or consolidate your other types of federal student loans into a Direct Loan, repay these loans under an income-driven repayment plan, and make 120 qualifying payments toward these loans. The requirements for PSLF can be quite strict, so be sure to read them closely. For more information about PSLF programs and to learn more about your eligibility, contact your loan servicer, which is the entity that services your loan.

6. Pharmacy Internships

Pharmacy internships can be instrumental in your budding career. This approach can help you understand how pharmacies operate, learn the ins and outs of customer service, help you dive into inventory management, and learn the professional skills necessary to become a pharmacist. You may also learn more from pharmacist professionals about leading a team and gain tangible professional experience to bring back to the classroom.

You may also want to look into pharmacy fellowships, which provide financial support in an external or internal capacity (in or out of the university environment). Assistantships also provide financial support in an academic department through teaching, research, or administrative responsibilities.

7. Work Part Time

You may want to consider working a part-time job in conjunction with pharmacy school. For example, if you attend school from 8am-4pm, you may want to seek a part-time job after hours.

However, it’s important to consider your time constraints and whether you can succeed in your coursework. Consider your ability to manage your time before you take on a part-time job. For the right student, taking on a job can help pay for college tuition and provide an additional source of income. Networking opportunities and skill development can also come from a part-time job, even if it doesn’t directly relate to your pharmacy career.

8. Borrow From Family

Do you have a family member who really wants to give you money for your education? You may seriously consider borrowing from your parents, sister, brother, or whoever else wants to lend you money.

Just remember that it could strain family relationships if you fail to pay back the loan. It’s a good idea to have a plan in place to repay your relative(s), as well as create boundaries so both parties feel good about the arrangement.

9. HRSA Loans

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), improves health care for geographically isolated and vulnerable individuals.

The HHS, through the HRSA, also offers several loans for health services students.

For example, Health Professions Student Loans are available to individuals who study pharmacy, as well as dentistry, optometry, podiatric medicine, or veterinary medicine. Pharmacy students who show financial need may also be able to tap into Loans for Disadvantaged Students. Health Professions Student Loans have fixed interest rates of 5%, which is lower than both Direct Unsubsidized Loans and grad PLUS loans.

These loans also allow a 12-month grace period, while most other loans only offer six months. In addition, Health Professions Student Loans are subsidized, which means you don’t pay interest on the loan while you’re in school, and you do not pay additional loan fees. However, they come with a few downsides: not all schools participate, and there are no set borrowing limits. You also can’t tap into income-driven repayment plans or PSLF.

The Takeaway

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

Can you use FAFSA for pharmacy school?

Absolutely! It’s generally a smart idea to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) for pharmacy school, no matter your financial situation. The FAFSA can give you access to a range of financial aid options, including scholarships (your school will consider your eligibility based on the FAFSA results), grants, loans, and work-study programs. You want to be able to put together the best financial aid options for your needs, and the best way to do that involves filing the FAFSA.

Does Walgreens pay for pharmacy school?

Walgreens offers the Pharmacy Educational Assistance Program. This program requires working for the company for a period of time as a registered pharmacist upon receiving your license. Check the company’s website for more details.

How much can pharmacists make after graduating?

The median pay for pharmacists is $137,480 per year, or $66.10 per hour, according to 2024 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The job outlook for pharmacists is projected to grow by 5% between 2024 and 2034, which is faster than average.

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SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Not all repayment options may be available for all loans. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is current as of 3/2/2026 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.
Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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