CCRN Salaries

Registered nurses (RNs) provide essential healthcare services, caring for patients across various medical settings. Their role is demanding and highly valuable. However, when an RN pursues additional training and specialization, such as becoming a Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN), their pay scale can increase significantly.

A CCRN is an advanced certification offered by the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) for nurses who specialize in caring for critically ill patients, typically in intensive care units (ICU), emergency rooms (ER), and other acute care settings. Achieving CCRN certification enhances a nurse’s expertise and opens doors to higher-paying career opportunities. Many nurses choose to pursue this certification with the goal of improving patient outcomes and boosting their earning potential.

This article will break down the factors affecting CCRN salaries, from annual pay and hourly rates to regional differences. We will also look at how the salary of a CCRN compares to that of a standard RN and provide insights into whether pursuing the CCRN certification is worth it. Read on to learn more about how much you can make as a CCRN!

CCRN Salary vs. RN

Critical care nurses (CCRN) are crucial in caring for patients

Critical care nurses (CCRN) are crucial in caring for patients with severe, life-threatening conditions. These nurses typically work in high-stress, high-intensity environments such as Intensive Care Units (ICUs), trauma units, and emergency departments, where quick decision-making and advanced patient care are essential. As a result, CCRNs are required to undergo additional training and certification beyond the standard Registered Nurse (RN) role. This extra expertise, experience, and specialized knowledge justifies a higher salary than an RN.

What Sets CCRN Apart from RN?

To become a critical care registered nurse, one must first be a licensed registered nurse (RN) with at least two years of hands-on experience in a setting that involves caring for critically ill patients. This experience allows CCRNs to understand complex medical conditions and life-saving procedures better. The knowledge and skills gained through these years of experience and additional advanced training equip CCRNs to provide the highest level of care for critically ill patients.

In addition to this experience, CCRNs must pass a certification exam administered by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). This certification demonstrates their ability to handle critical situations and make vital medical decisions.

Given this advanced training, expertise, and specialized knowledge, CCRNs earn a significantly higher salary compared to RNs who don’t hold this certification.

Salary Comparison: CCRN vs. RN

1. Nationwide Average Salaries

  • CCRN Salary: According to ZipRecruiter, the nationwide average base salary for a CCRN is around $82,840 annually.
  • RN Salary: On the other hand, RNs earn an average salary of $76,721, according to ZipRecruiter, which means CCRNs make about $6,000 more annually compared to their RN counterparts.

2. Payscale Reports

  • RN Salary: Payscale reports the median salary for RNs is about $83,000 per year.
  • CCRN Salary: For those with the CCRN certification, the average base salary can increase to $98,000 annually, reflecting the advanced training and specialization required for the role.

3. Salary.com Data

  • CCRN Salary: Salary.com provides the median annual salary for a critical care registered nurse at $95,383.
  • RN Salary: This is significantly higher than the $66,000 median salary for an RN, further emphasizing the pay differential between the two roles.

4. Comparably’s Report

  • CCRN Salary: According to Comparably, critical care nurses earn a base salary of approximately $67,490.
  • RN Salary: For comparison, RNs earn about $65,666 annually, highlighting that even in this report, CCRNs earn more than RNs.

Additional Compensation and Benefits for CCRNs

Besides the base salary, critical care nurses can expect additional bonus compensation. These bonuses can significantly increase the overall earnings of a CCRN, ranging from $10,000 to $34,000 annually. The size of the bonus often depends on various factors such as:

  • Employer: Different healthcare organizations offer varying bonus structures.
  • Experience: Nurses with more years of experience and specialized expertise are often rewarded with higher bonuses.
  • Care Complexity: Nurses working in more complex care environments (e.g., trauma units and transplant centers) may receive higher compensation due to the demanding nature of the work.

Why the Pay Difference Matters

The pay disparity between CCRNs and RNs reflects the additional training, education, and expertise that CCRNs possess. Nurses who choose to become certified in critical care are investing in their careers, which pays off in terms of higher salaries and career advancement opportunities.

This higher salary can motivate many nurses, especially those considering further specialization. It also serves as recognition for the increased responsibility and skills CCRNs bring to patient care. As the demand for healthcare professionals in critical care settings continues to rise, having a CCRN certification can open doors to higher pay and more prestigious job positions.

APRN vs. CCRN Salary

Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) and Critical Care Registered Nurses (CCRN) both hold advanced qualifications, but their roles differ significantly in terms of responsibilities and work settings. APRNs are highly trained nurses who specialize in areas such as nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and clinical nurse specialists. They are equipped with advanced education that allows them to diagnose, treat, and manage patient care, often independently or in collaboration with physicians. On the other hand, CCRNs are specialized registered nurses who focus on providing care to critically ill patients, typically in high-intensity environments such as ICUs or trauma units.

Given their specialized training, both APRNs and CCRNs earn higher salaries than standard registered nurses (RNs). However, the salary differences between an APRN and a CCRN are often narrower than one might expect, as both roles demand advanced expertise and critical care skills.

Salary Comparison: APRN vs. CCRN

1. Average Salaries Nationwide

  • APRN Salary: According to ZipRecruiter, the nationwide average salary for an APRN is approximately $98,147 annually. This higher salary reflects the advanced education and clinical responsibilities of being an APRN, including the ability to prescribe medications and manage patient care autonomously in many cases.
  • CCRN Salary: Critical care registered nurses, as reported by ZipRecruiter, earn an average salary of $75,371 annually. While this salary is higher than that of a standard RN, it falls short of the earnings for an APRN, reflecting the different nature of each role’s duties and expertise.

2. Payscale Insights

  • APRN Salary: Payscale reports that APRNs can expect to earn around $100,000 per year. This salary reflects their high level of education and the extensive clinical experience they must acquire to be certified in their specialized fields.
  • CCRN Salary: Payscale also shows that the salary for a CCRN is typically around $82,000 annually. Although this is much more than a standard RN, it still lags behind the salary of APRNs, who are often tasked with a broader range of responsibilities.

3. Salary.com Data

  • APRN Salary: Salary.com offers the median salary for an APRN at $106,000 annually. This figure can vary widely depending on factors such as the nurse’s specialty, years of experience, and geographic location, with some APRNs in higher-paying roles or regions making over $120,000 per year.
  • CCRN Salary: The salary for a CCRN, according to Salary.com, stands at $95,383 annually, which is closer to the median salary for an APRN but still lower, as APRNs typically perform a wider range of advanced duties.

Why APRN Salaries Are Higher Than CCRN Salaries

The primary reason why APRNs earn more than CCRNs is the scope of their roles. While both APRNs and CCRNs work in high-stress, high-responsibility environments, APRNs are trained to take on clinical and leadership roles that involve independent decision-making, diagnosing, and prescribing medications. In contrast, CCRNs focus primarily on providing specialized care to critically ill patients, often working with doctors and other healthcare professionals to stabilize and treat patients.

Furthermore, the educational requirements for becoming an APRN are typically more extensive, often involving a Master’s or Doctoral degree in nursing, compared to the certification process for CCRNs, which builds upon existing RN credentials and requires additional experience and testing specific to critical care.

Additional Compensation for APRNs and CCRNs

APRNs and CCRNs may receive additional compensation in bonuses, overtime pay, and other incentives. APRNs, especially those working in specialized areas like anesthesiology or pediatrics, may receive substantial bonuses, particularly in regions with high demand for advanced practice nurses. These bonuses can range from $5,000 to $30,000 annually, depending on the employer, specialty, and location.

CCRN nurses may also receive performance-based bonuses, although they tend to be smaller, with figures ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, reflecting their specialized expertise in critical care.

CCRN Salary Per Hour 

Critical care nurses (CCRNs) not only enjoy annual salaries but also receive hourly wages that reflect the intensity and dedication of their work. Since CCRNs often work long shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, their hourly pay significantly affects their total compensation.

Let’s break down the key factors that influence the hourly rate for CCRNs and specific salary data from reliable sources.

Average Hourly Rate for CCRNs

The hourly rate for critical care nurses can vary based on several factors, but here’s an overview of the general pay rates across the country:

  • ZipRecruiter: According to their data, the average hourly rate for a CCRN is approximately $40 per hour. This reflects the national average and can vary depending on location and employer.
  • Payscale: Payscale reports an average hourly rate of $37.32 for CCRNs. This figure is based on a combination of geographical location, years of experience, and workplace setting.
  • Salary.com: Salary.com says the average hourly rate for CCRNs is around $39. This pay scale is typical for most hospitals and healthcare facilities nationwide.

Factors Influencing Hourly Pay

While these numbers provide a useful guideline, several factors influence the specific hourly wage a CCRN might earn:

  1. Location: The state and even the city where CCRN works can have a significant impact on their hourly rate. For example, nurses in large metropolitan areas or states with a higher cost of living, like New York or California, tend to earn higher hourly wages. For instance, a CCRN in New York may earn considerably more than one working in a rural area.
  2. Experience: More experienced critical care nurses typically command higher hourly rates. Nurses with several years of experience or specialized skills in certain fields (such as trauma care) often earn more than those just starting out.
  3. Employer: Hospitals, healthcare facilities, and private practices offer varying compensation packages. Some employers may provide more competitive pay, while others may offer benefits that supplement hourly pay, such as healthcare plans or retirement contributions.
  4. Shifts and Workload: Critical care nurses often work in high-pressure environments, and those who take on night shifts, weekend shifts, or on-call duties may earn higher hourly pay due to shift differentials. For instance, night shift nurses may receive additional pay for working outside of regular business hours.

Additional Compensation

In addition to base hourly wages, critical care nurses may also receive additional compensation for working overtime or in high-demand environments like emergency rooms and intensive care units. These bonuses and shift differentials are common for nurses in critical care settings, as they work long hours and handle complex, life-threatening situations.

  • Overtime Pay: Critical care nurses who work overtime—especially in emergency or intensive care—may receive higher pay for these extra hours. Overtime pay is typically calculated at time and a half or double time, depending on the employer and location.
  • Shift Differentials: Many hospitals offer shift differentials for those working evening, night, or weekend shifts. This means a CCRN working the night shift may earn a higher hourly wage than one working a standard daytime shift. The differential varies but typically costs $2-$5 per hour.
  • Bonus Pay: Many CCRNs receive additional bonuses that range from $10,000 to $34,000 annually. These bonuses can be tied to performance, critical care unit needs, or simply working in a high-demand setting.

How to Maximize Your Hourly Pay as a CCRN

To maximize your hourly pay as a CCRN, consider the following strategies:

  • Seek out high-paying locations: Certain states and cities offer higher pay due to cost-of-living factors. For example, states like New York, California, and Colorado tend to offer higher compensation.
  • Gain experience and specializations: With more experience and additional certifications, CCRNs can earn higher pay. Specializing in pediatric or neonatal care or gaining expertise in trauma or intensive care can make you more valuable to employers.
  • Work additional shifts or overtime: You can increase your hourly earnings by picking up extra shifts or volunteering for weekend and holiday work. Many critical care nurses find this especially beneficial in emergency or trauma settings.

CCRN Salary By State

Salaries for Certified Critical Care Registered Nurses (CCRNs) vary widely across the United States, influenced by factors like state demand, cost of living, and healthcare infrastructure. Understanding these differences can help nurses decide where to work to maximize their earnings. Below is a detailed breakdown of CCRN salaries in key states:

New York

  • Average Salary: $136,296 per year (highest nationwide).
  • Why It’s High: New York’s robust healthcare system and high demand for critical care services drive competitive wages. Major cities like New York City and Albany often offer additional incentives for specialized nursing skills.
  • Cost of Living: Keep in mind that New York also has a higher cost of living, especially in urban areas.
  • Resource: Explore nursing job opportunities in New York at AACN Career Center.

California

  • Average Salary: $62,907 per year.
  • Top City: San Jose offers significantly higher pay, with CCRNs earning an average of $70,679 annually.
  • Factors Influencing Pay: The demand for healthcare professionals in major urban areas and the state’s stringent licensing requirements contribute to higher salaries.
  • Resource: Learn more about California nursing license requirements on the California Board of Nursing website.

Colorado

  • Average Salary: Denver leads the state, with CCRNs earning around $69,564 annually.
  • Why Work Here: Colorado offers a blend of competitive wages and a slightly lower cost of living than states like California or New York.
  • Job Outlook: The state has a growing demand for critical care professionals in its expanding healthcare network.
  • Resource: Discover CCRN job listings in Colorado on Indeed Healthcare Jobs.

Florida

  • Salary Range: $53,424 to $85,313 annually.
  • Variation: Salaries differ significantly by city, with larger metropolitan areas like Miami and Orlando offering higher compensation.
  • Cost of Living: Florida’s no-state-income-tax policy makes it attractive despite slightly lower average pay.
  • Resource: Check out Florida’s healthcare sector opportunities at the Florida Nurses Association.

Delaware

  • Average Salary: $59,134 per year.
  • Top City: Rehoboth Beach offers the best pay in the state.
  • Why Work Here: Delaware’s smaller size means less competition for roles, which could benefit experienced CCRNs.
  • Resource: Explore Delaware-specific nursing roles through Nurse.com.

North Carolina

  • Median Salary: $61,060 annually.
  • Appeal: North Carolina is known for its blend of competitive pay and lower living costs, especially in cities like Raleigh and Charlotte.
  • Career Growth: The state is investing in healthcare infrastructure, increasing opportunities for CCRNs.
  • Resource: Search for nursing positions in North Carolina via the North Carolina Nurses Association.

What Affects CCRN Salaries by State?

Several factors influence CCRN salaries, including:

  1. Demand for Critical Care Services: States with higher patient volumes often pay more to attract skilled nurses.
  2. Cost of Living: Salaries are often adjusted to reflect regional living expenses.
  3. Healthcare Infrastructure: States with large hospital systems or specialized care units tend to offer higher wages.
  4. Experience and Certifications: CCRNs with additional certifications or extensive experience may earn more, regardless of location.

Tips for Maximizing CCRN Earnings

  • Consider relocating to states with higher average salaries or cities with greater demand for critical care nurses.
  • Pursue additional certifications and specializations to increase your value as a healthcare professional.
  • Network through professional organizations like the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN).

By understanding these salary variations and leveraging available resources, CCRNs can make strategic career decisions to achieve their professional and financial goals.

How to Become a CCRN?

Becoming a Certified Critical Care Nurse (CCRN) is a valuable credential that opens doors to career advancement, higher pay, and a deeper level of expertise in patient care. If you’re ready to take the next step in your nursing career, here’s a detailed guide on how to become a CCRN:

1. Obtain Licensure

Before pursuing CCRN certification, you must be a licensed registered nurse (RN) or an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).

  • RN License: If you have an RN license, you can apply for the CCRN exam if you meet the experience requirements.
  • APRN License: If you hold an APRN license, you can also pursue CCRN certification, as your advanced skills and knowledge will complement the critical care expertise in the CCRN exam tests.

You can find more about RN licensure requirements here. For APRNs, visit the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties for detailed information on licensure.

2. Gain Required Experience

Experience is crucial for becoming a CCRN. You must meet one of the following two criteria for direct care experience with critically ill patients:

  • 1,750 hours of direct patient care in the last two years, including at least 875 hours in the most recent 12-month period.
  • 2,000 hours of direct care over the past 5 years, with at least 144 hours completed in the last year.

Direct patient care means you are actively engaged in assessing, planning, and providing care to critically ill patients, such as those in intensive care units (ICU), emergency departments, or trauma units. This hands-on experience is essential in ensuring you’re equipped with the skills and clinical knowledge required for the exam.

3. Take the CCRN Exam

Once you meet the experience requirements, the next step is to pass the CCRN certification exam administered by the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN).

  • Exam Content: The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions, focusing on:
    • Clinical Judgment: Decision-making in critical care situations.
    • Patient Care: Knowledge of patient assessment and care plans.
    • Professional Ethics: Ethical considerations and practices in critical care.
  • Exam Format: The exam is 3 hours long, and you need a strong understanding of critical care to succeed.

You can learn more about the exam content and format on the official AACN CCRN certification page.

4. Prepare for the Exam

Proper preparation is key to passing the CCRN exam. Many nurses find enrolling in specialized review courses helpful to guide them through the exam content. These courses provide:

  • Practice Tests: These mimic the actual exam format and help familiarize you with the questions.
  • Study Materials: Comprehensive study guides and reference materials focusing on the key areas of the exam.
  • Tips and Strategies: Advice on approaching each section of the exam and managing your time effectively during the test.

Some popular review courses include:

These resources can help ensure you’re well-prepared and boost your chances of passing on the first try.

5. Submit Your Application

After you feel ready, you can submit your application for the CCRN exam. Applications can be submitted online through the AACN Certification website. The cost of the exam is typically:

  • $360 for non-members
  • $245 for AACN members

You can find more information about exam fees and how to apply on the AACN Certification Application page.

6. Take the Exam and Get Certified

Once your application is accepted, you’ll receive instructions on how to schedule your exam. After passing the exam, you will be awarded the CCRN certification, valid for three years.

You must complete continuing education and renewal requirements during this period to maintain your certification. Renewal typically involves earning a certain number of continuing education credits and passing a renewal exam, depending on the AACN’s policies.

The Benefits of Becoming a CCRN

Becoming a CCRN offers significant benefits:

  • Career Growth: CCRN certification can open the door to more specialized roles, leadership opportunities, and career advancement.
  • Increased Salary: Certified critical care nurses often earn higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts. According to recent data, the average salary for a CCRN is higher than the median salary of a registered nurse.
  • Improved Patient Outcomes: Certification is associated with better patient outcomes, as certified nurses possess advanced knowledge and skills.
  • Professional Satisfaction: CCRN certification recognizes your expertise in critical care, offering you personal satisfaction and greater professional credibility.

Is the CCRN Certification Worth It?

For many nurses, the CCRN certification is a valuable investment in their careers. The added skills and knowledge help them excel in their role, leading to better patient care and greater job satisfaction. Additionally, the potential for higher salaries, better job prospects, and a more specialized career path makes the CCRN certification a great option for registered nurses seeking to advance in critical care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is CCRN certification a hard test?

The CCRN exam is challenging, but it’s not insurmountable. The first-time pass rate for the CCRN exam is typically between 72-79%, which shows that many candidates succeed on their first attempt with adequate preparation. Many free practice tests and review courses are available online to help nurses prepare.

How much does the CCRN test cost?

The CCRN exam costs $360 for non-members and $245 for AACN members. If you need to retake the exam, the cost is $275 for non-members and $170 for members.

What is the cost of AACN membership?

AACN membership costs $78 annually. Becoming a member can save you money on certification and provide valuable networking opportunities with other critical care professionals.

Which state has the highest salary for critical care nurses?

New York offers the highest average salary for CCRNs, with an annual salary of $136,296.

Is it worth becoming a critical care registered nurse?

Yes, becoming a CCRN can be highly rewarding. Not only do you earn a higher salary than standard RNs, but you also gain specialized knowledge that can lead to improved job satisfaction and career advancement. Additionally, it enables you to make a more significant impact on patient care, especially in critical settings, which can be deeply fulfilling.

Conclusion

The role of a Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) offers a path to both higher pay and career advancement. With advanced education and hands-on experience in acute care, CCRNs earn higher salaries than standard RNs, and the compensation varies by state, employer, and experience.

If you’re considering advancing your nursing career and specializing in critical care, the CCRN certification could be a smart and rewarding choice. It leads to higher earnings and opens doors to new job opportunities, challenges, and the chance to make a significant difference in patient care. If you’re ready to take the next step, prepare for the CCRN exam today!