10 Nurse Practitioner Specialties Earning $100K+ in the U.S.

Nurses are at the core of America’s healthcare system. Not only do they aid physicians, but they assess, treat, educate and support patients at every step of care. From hospitals and clinics to schools and home care settings, demand for healthcare services is increasing across America, making their role more vital over time.

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) represent some of the most advanced roles in nursing. These highly skilled professionals diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and manage patient care, making a substantial impactful contribution while earning a healthy income from this rewarding career path.

Here are 10 high-paying Nurse Practitioner specialties that earn $100K or more in the US:

1. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

Average Annual Salary: $214,200 per year

CRNAs provide anesthesia during surgical procedures and monitor patients before, during, and after procedures. Their role requires extensive training and certification. CRNAs typically command one of the highest salaries among Nurse Practitioners.

2. Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Average Salary: $154,330 per year

PMHNPs specialize in diagnosing, treating, and monitoring mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and more. With increased awareness around mental illness comes increased demand and pay for these professionals. Certification by ANCC is mandatory.

3. Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)

Average Salary: $142,320 per year

Neonatal nurse practitioners specialize in caring for premature or critically ill infants within neonatal intensive care units (NICU). It’s a high-stress field requiring prior experience and completion of an NNP program to become one.

4. Dermatology Nurse Practitioner

Average Salary: $140,203 per year

Dermatology nurse practitioners specialize in diagnosing and treating skin conditions, performing biopsies, and providing cosmetic procedures. Working for private clinics or aesthetic practices can increase earnings substantially.

5. Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP)

Average Salary: $136,285 per year

Emergency nurse practitioners work in emergency departments and urgent care centers, treating trauma and acute medical conditions. Experience in emergency medicine is required, and dual certification in family medicine and emergency care is beneficial.

6. Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner

Average Salary: $134,369 per year

Orthopedic NPs assist orthopedic surgeons in treating bone, joint, and muscle injuries for patients. Experience in surgical units or orthopedics is key, while many pursue specialty fellowships to earn more.

7. Cardiology Nurse Practitioner

Average Salary: $133,739 per year

Cardiology nurse practitioners specialize in managing chronic heart conditions for their patients as well as aiding during procedures. Advanced certifications or experience may often be required in order to secure top salaries.

8. Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP)

Average Annual Salary: $130,303 per year

Providing acute care nursing services, often within hospital ICUs or specialty units. A master’s or doctoral degree in acute care nursing and hospital experience are usually necessary to become an ACNP.

9. Oncology Nurse Practitioner

Average Salary: $124,840 per year

These NPs specialize in treating cancer patients, managing chemotherapy regimens and supporting them throughout diagnosis and recovery. AOCNP certification and experience working in oncology units are highly valued.

10. Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)

Average Salary: $122,069 per year

WHNPs specialize in reproductive and gynecological health services such as prenatal services, birth control counselling, and menopause support. Certification through specific bodies, such as WHNP, can increase earning potential significantly.

Choosing a Nurse Practitioner specialty

Deciding upon a specialty as an aspiring nurse practitioner means balancing passion, lifestyle preferences, and income potential. High-paying roles often require advanced certifications, clinical experience, and graduate-level degrees. Your setting—private practices, specialty clinics, or hospitals—can significantly affect earnings potential.

Another important consideration when planning your career path is nursing malpractice insurance, commonly referred to as Professional Liability insurance. Nurse practitioners taking on more responsibilities and autonomy, potentially increasing their liability risks. A malpractice policy offers legal protection and peace of mind, particularly in high-risk specialties such as anesthesia or acute care.

Building your healthcare career

Specialized nursing offers nurses a clear path to a financially and professionally rewarding nursing career, with several NP specialties earning $100K or more annually. By selecting an area of specialty, earning relevant certifications, and protecting your practice with malpractice insurance coverage, nurses can build long-term careers that are both sustainable and meaningful.