63 Highest-Paying Nurse Practitioner Jobs in 2024 – (Earn Over $100K Per Year) (2024)

Written By: Raymond Aguirre, RN, BSN, PHN, CHPN

Being a nurse practitioner is a very rewarding career and among the many benefits you will enjoy is financial stability. It is no secret that nurse practitioners are some of the most well-paid healthcare professionals in today’s job market. If you have considered going into this profession, you may already know that there are many types of nurse practitioner specialties. But one question you may still be asking is what are the highest-paid nurse practitioner specialties? Hopefully, this list of the 63 highest-paying nurse practitioner jobs for 2024 will give you the answers you need and help you decide which job suits your passions and your career goals.

WHAT ARE THE HIGHEST-PAYING NURSE PRACTITIONER JOBS IN 2024?

(Below you will find the 63 highest-paying jobs for nurse practitioners that are paying an average annual salary of $100,000 or more in 2024.)

1.Cardiology Nurse Practitioner ($136,846)

What is a Cardiology Nurse Practitioner

Cardiology nurse practitioners are on the frontlines of treating many conditions that affect the heart and the blood vessels. That gives you a huge scope of practice, because you may treat patients with chronic diseases like hypertension and congenital heart disease, or children with congenital heart defects like Tetralogy of Fallot. And whether you work in an outpatient clinic or at an acute hospital, you will not only have an exciting career but one that provides critical care to others.

How Much Do Cardiology Nurse Practitioners Make

Cardiology nurse practitioners hold some of the highest-paid nurse practitioner jobs. They command an average hourly salary of $65.79 or $136,846 annually.

Why Cardiology NPs are Highly Paid

The level of responsibility that you have in this specialty makes it one of the most highly compensated NP specialties. Cardiology is serious business and you may deal with life-or-death situations. Cardiology nurse practitioners need to be proficient in understanding cardiac drugs and procedures that affect one of the most vital organs of the body, the heart.

2.Bilingual Nurse Practitioner ($134,329)

What is a Bilingual Nurse Practitioner

Melting pot. Salad bowl. Whatever imagery you like to use to describe America, the fact is that our country is home to one of the most diverse populations on the planet. With this comes a wide variety of cultures and languages, as this graphic from the Census Bureau clearly demonstrates. Not surprisingly, this simple truth affects the healthcare system, which is why bilingual nurse practitioners are so vital.

How Much Do Bilingual Nurse Practitioners Make

Bilingual nurse practitioners are paid $11,190 per month on average. This translates to an annual salary of $134,329 annually or $64.58 per hour.

Why Bilingual NPs are Highly Paid

Other than having the appropriate nursing licenses and certifications, being bilingual opens the door to many highly-paid nurse practitioner jobs in 2024 because of the need to communicate with growing segments of the U.S. population. As a bilingual nurse practitioner, you will be sought after not just for your clinical skills but also your ability to make healthcare accessible to members of society who may not be fluent in English.

3.Interventional Cardiology Nurse Practitioner ($131,450)

What is an Interventional Cardiology Nurse Practitioner

Does the idea of working with specialized cardiac procedures appeal to you? If so, you may want to consider interventional cardiology. Being an interventional cardiology nurse practitioner involves working with a cardiologist in performing procedures that involve cardiac catheters and stents. These medical devices are used for a variety of things, which may be for diagnostic purposes or for treatments, such as the case when a balloon stent is inserted into a clogged blood vessel in order to restore circulation.

How Much Do Interventional Cardiology Nurse Practitioners Make

Interventional cardiology is a high-paying NP specialty. Six-figure salaries are the average and the annual income of nurse practitioners in this specialty is about $131,450 annually or $63.20 per hour.

Why Interventional Cardiology NPs are Highly Paid

Interventional cardiology nurse practitioners are paid very well because of the level of competence they must possess. Not only are they expected to be clinically knowledgeable, but they must also be skilled at performing delicate cardiac procedures that can potentially save the life of an individual.

4.Kaiser Permanente Nurse Practitioner ($128,885)

What is a Kaiser Permanente Nurse Practitioner

If you are aspiring for highly paid nurse practitioner jobs in an organization that values excellence, then you may want to consider becoming a Kaiser Permanente nurse practitioner. Kaiser Permanente is a network of healthcare entities that include hospitals, clinics, and a managed care health plan that caters to several states like California, Washington, Colorado, and Hawaii. As a Kaiser Permanente Nurse Practitioner, you will be able to work in various specialty areas in both their outpatient and inpatient facilities.

How Much Do Kaiser Permanente Nurse Practitioners Make

Kaiser Permanente nurse practitioners have an hourly wage of $61.96 or $128,885 per year, and these positions can be found on their career website.

Why Kaiser Permanente NPs are Highly Paid

Kaiser Permanente is a premier healthcare organization that places great emphasis on providing high-quality care to the communities they serve. All employees are expected to live up to the mission of the organization, and that includes their practitioners. It is for this reason why Kaiser Permanente’s nurse practitioners are some of the most well-paid in the country.

5.Cardiothoracic Surgery Nurse Practitioner ($124,627)

What is a Cardiothoracic Surgery Nurse Practitioner

Cardiothoracic surgery is not for the faint heart. As a nurse practitioner in this specialty, you will have to deal with two of the most vital organs in the body, the heart, and the lungs, in addition to other organs in the chest. While you may not be doing a heart surgery on your own, you will certainly have the opportunity to participate in these kinds of procedures.

How Much Do Cardiothoracic Surgery Nurse Practitioners Make

If you like to have a high-paying nurse practitioner job that gives you a “front seat” to some very interesting medical procedures, then this specialty is for you. Nurse practitioners who specialize in cardiothoracic surgery earn an hourly wage of about $59.92 or $124,627 per year.

Why Cardiothoracic Surgery NPs are Highly Paid

Cardiothoracic surgery can be a challenging specialty area. You will be dealing with very ill individuals and helping them restore their health with invasive and potentially risky procedures. Nurse practitioners in this specialty are paid well because of the high level of responsibility that they must shoulder.

6.Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner ($123,607)

What is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners deal with the intricacies of the human psyche. They treat mental illnesses in clinics, hospitals, and behavioral facilities. They prescribe medications or recommend therapy sessions for their patients. Some examples of conditions that mental health nurse practitioners treat are depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, among others. You may not be dealing with “physical” conditions, but you will certainly be alleviating the psychological suffering of many individuals.

How Much Do Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners Make

With an average hourly wage of $59.43 or $123,607 per year, mental health can definitely be a rewarding career for nurse practitioners.

Why Psychiatric Mental Health NPs are Highly Paid

Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners will find that a high-paying nurse practitioner job is well within their reach because they are in demand. According to Health Resources and Services Administration data, thousands of mental health practitioners are needed to serve a population of 125 million individuals in what are called health professional shortage areas.

7.Pediatric Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner ($121,965)

What is a Pediatric Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Nurse practitioners who have a passion for mental health and love working with children may be excited to learn that they can specialize as pediatric psychiatric nurse practitioners. Nationwide Children’s Hospital actually has a fellowship that focuses on this specialty. Like their counterparts who treat adults, pediatric psychiatric nurse practitioners also treat mental disorders among children and adolescents. They also work in various settings, including behavioral hospitals with dedicated units for young patients.

How Much Do Pediatric Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners Make

If pediatric psychiatry is your passion, you may also like the fact that this specialty pays well. The average salaries of pediatric psychiatric nurse practitioners are $121,965 annually or $58.64 per hour.

Why Pediatric Psychiatric NPs are Highly Paid

Pediatric psychiatric nurse practitioners practice within a sub-specialty area of mental health. That means that they possess knowledge that other mental health nurse practitioners may not have, such as knowing how to manage psychiatric conditions within the context of child developmental psychology. Such highly specialized knowledge is why pediatric psychiatry is a highly-paid NP specialty.

8.Telepsychiatry Nurse Practitioner ($121,148)

What is a Telepsychiatry Nurse Practitioner

Some nurse practitioners love the intersection between technology and healthcare. If you happen to be one of them and are also interested in mental health, then you may want to become a nurse practitioner in the field of telepsychiatry, which can be a high-paying NP job. Telepsychiatry nurse practitioners deliver mental health services through remote means, such as videoconferencing. If this specialty interests you, companies like American Telepsychiatrists are on the lookout for nurse practitioners to join their teams.

How Much Do Telepsychiatry Nurse Practitioners Make

Telepsychiatry nurse practitioners are rather well-paid, on average, they can pull in an income of $121,148 every year or an hourly rate of $58.24.

Why Telepsychiatry NPs are Highly Paid

The COVID-19 pandemic and the social distancing guidelines that arose out of it has highlighted the importance of professionals who can competently provide care remotely. But even without a pandemic, telepsychiatry nurse practitioners will remain highly paid and valuable because they not only possess clinical skills, but they also can use technology to provide care for those with psychiatric issues.

9.Geriatric Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner ($120,266)

What is a Geriatric Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

If you love the idea of interacting and learning from the storied lives of older adults, then you may want to become a geriatric NP. Geriatric nurse practitioners care for the elderly. It is a somewhat broad specialty because older adults have a diverse set of medical needs that require the services of nurse practitioners. Geriatric nurse practitioners may practice in hospitals, long-term care, and even home care settings. They take care of many conditions, from acute, self-limiting viral illnesses to chronic diseases.

How Much Do Geriatric Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners Make

Geriatric nurse practitioners are among the highest-paid nurse practitioners in 2024. Hourly rates, on average, are about $57.82. That translates to $120,266 annually.

Why Geriatric Psychiatric NPs are Highly Paid

A big part of why geriatric nurse practitioners have a high salary is the sheer demand for their services. Data from the Administration for Community Living shows that there are now more than 50 million seniors in the United States. This number is expected to grow to about 94.7 million in 2060, and many of them will require medical care from competent professionals like geriatric nurse practitioners.

10.Hospitalist Nurse Practitioner ($117,880)

What is a Hospitalist Nurse Practitioner

Hospitalist nurse practitioners thrive in the dynamic and fast-paced working conditions of an acute setting. And while that may be unsettling for some, it is the perfect place for individuals who like the excitement of encountering new types of patients all the time. Hospitalist nurse practitioners work in tandem with their physician counterparts in treating a variety of conditions.

How Much Do Hospitalist Nurse Practitioners Make

As a hospitalist NP, you can expect to have one of the highest-paying nurse practitioner jobs. The average yearly wage is about $117,880. And while hourly rates vary based on region and specific hospitals, it is $56.67 on average.

Why Hospitalist NPs are Highly Paid

Hospitalist nurse practitioners are a versatile breed of quick-thinking medical professionals. They are expected to be somewhat of a “jack of all trades”. They do not focus on one organ system or one group of individuals. Instead, they are expected to be good at assessing a multitude of conditions and to come up with ways to resolve problems effectively and efficiently.

11.Cleveland Clinic Nurse Practitioner ($117,617)

What is a Cleveland Clinic Nurse Practitioner

The Cleveland Clinic is a network of hospitals and medical facilities that are well-recognized for their excellence. It employs thousands of nurses, including nurse practitioners. As an NP for the Cleveland Clinic, you will become part of a prestigious organization that provides care to patients with a diverse set of medical needs.

How Much Do Cleveland Clinic Nurse Practitioners Make

Because the Cleveland Clinic is a large medical entity that treats many conditions, they employ many highly paid nurse practitioners in various specialty areas. On average, however, the Cleveland Clinic pays its nurse practitioners an average hourly rate of $56.55 or an annual salary of $117,617.

Why Cleveland Clinic NPs are Highly Paid

With a high salary comes great expectations. Maintaining the Cleveland Clinic’s great reputation requires a strong dedication and a high level of competence from the nurse practitioners it employs. Working at the Cleveland clinic is more than just a job, it is a commitment to go above and beyond as a medical professional.

12.Internal Medicine Nurse Practitioner ($117,080)

What is an Internal Medicine Nurse Practitioner

You can think of internal medicine nurse practitioners as the first line of defense when it comes to healthcare providers. The role of those who practice internal medicine is to be the primary health care providers for different kinds of patients. You will be tasked with addressing their immediate medical concerns and, when necessary, refer them to other specialists that have more training in a particular field of medicine.

How Much Do Internal Medicine Nurse Practitioners Make

There are many highly-paid nurse practitioners that specialize in internal medicine. The hourly wage for this type of specialty is $56.29 or $117,080 annually.

Why Internal Medicine NPs are Highly Paid

Internal medicine nurse practitioners are valued members of the healthcare community because they are arguably some of the most accessible providers. As you may know, healthcare in the U.S is set up in a way that primary care providers act as “gatekeepers”. They not only provide medical treatment, but they also make critical decisions on which specialists might best be able to help a patient.

13.Oncology Nurse Practitioner ($117,074)

What is an Oncology Nurse Practitioner

Data from the American Cancer Society shows that cancer is a major cause of illness and death in the United States. As an oncology nurse practitioner, you will become part of the solution to this problem. You will treat patients with various types of cancers, from the relatively benign to some that are potentially life-threatening. In any case, your skill and compassion in prescribing and administering treatments can provide comfort to others or better yet, give them a second chance at life.

How Much Do Oncology Nurse Practitioners Make

Oncology nurse practitioners have an average hourly rate of $56.29. Annually, that amounts to $117,074.

Why Oncology NPs are Highly Paid

Oncology is one of the highest-paying NP specialties because of the level of specialization needed in this area. Treating cancer involves some very potent drugs, some of which have side effects that cause great discomfort and physical harm. Oncology nurse practitioners need to have the knowledge to determine what treatments are appropriate so that their patients get the optimal benefit from them.

14.Hematology-Oncology Nurse Practitioner ($116,139)

What is a Hematology-Oncology Nurse Practitioner

Hematology-Oncology or “Hem-Onc” is a unique sub-specialty that deals with conditions like leukemia. As a hematology-oncology nurse practitioner, you will not only be one of the highest-paid nurse practitioners, you will also treat people with very debilitating conditions. Your patients are likely to be very sick and immunocompromised, and it will be your job to help restore their health. Some conditions you may be treating are quite unfamiliar to most people, such as von Willebrand Disease, which is a type of bleeding disorder, or thalassemia, a disease that causes severe anemia.

How Much Do Hematology-Oncology Nurse Practitioners Make

Nurse practitioners in this specialty have an average annual salary of $116,139 or $55.84 per hour.

Why Hematology-Oncology NPs are Highly Paid

To become a hematology-oncology nurse practitioner, you will have to go beyond the generalist knowledge you may have learned in school. Hematology-oncology is a highly specialized field that requires further study beyond a typical advanced nursing practice degree. It is this knowledge that makes hematology-oncology nurse practitioners such valued and highly paid professionals.

15.Bariatric Nurse Practitioner ($115,589)

What is a Bariatric Nurse Practitioner

Weight loss is a goal for many people who are looking to change their lifestyle and appearance. For others though, weight loss is a medical necessity. Bariatric nurse practitioners help people whose weight has become a detriment to their overall health. Obese and overweight individuals are prone to many conditions, including diabetes and cardiac diseases. Bariatric surgery may be their best hope of either managing these diseases or preventing themselves from acquiring them.

How Much Do Bariatric Nurse Practitioners Make

Nurse practitioners who specialize in bariatrics are paid, on average, an hourly rate of $55.57. This translates to $115,589 per year.

Why Bariatric NPs are Highly Paid

Bariatrics is a highly specialized field with unique treatment modalities. Nurse practitioners who choose to focus on this specialty are highly paid because they must learn these treatments and should also be able to explain them to their patients in a manner that is understandable, sensitive, and non-threatening.

16.Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner ($115,195)

What is an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Adult-gerontology primary care is a specialty for nurse practitioners who like variety but also desire a more relaxed practice setting. In this specialty, your patients have different and, at times, multiple conditions. But rather than treating patients in the high-octane environment of a hospital, you will most likely work in a clinic.

How Much Do Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioners Make

The hourly pay in this specialty is $55.38. That is equivalent to $115,195 per year.

Why Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NPs are Highly Paid

As an adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, you are paid a good salary for your ability to treat multiple types of conditions. You may not be expected to have highly technical knowledge, but you will at least have to know how to prevent patients from destabilizing into worse conditions, which may require you to have knowledge about other providers in your community who have a more focused specialization on your patients' unique medical needs.

17.Wound Care Nurse Practitioner ($114,504)

What is a Wound Care Nurse Practitioner

Some nurse practitioners find wounds fascinating, and if you are one of them, you can choose to go into this specialty and get certified. Wound care nurse practitioners treat many types of skin injuries, from the pressure injuries of bedbound patients to the chronic ulcers of diabetics and persons with circulatory problems. They work in many types of facilities or may serve as wound consultants.

How Much Do Wound Care Nurse Practitioners Make

Pay varies among wound care nurse practitioners, but their average yearly salary is $114,504. That translates to $55.05 per hour.

Why Wound Care NPs are Highly Paid

Wound care nurse practitioners are a special breed of healthcare providers. What they see on a daily basis may be a bit too gruesome for some. But a strong stomach is not the only reason why wound care NPs command a high salary. Wound care nurse practitioners are one of the highest-paid nurse practitioners because of their keen assessment skills and their unique knowledge in prescribing treatments that may not be familiar to many clinicians.

18.Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner ($114,468)

What is an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Perhaps you like working with adults in a fast-paced hospital setting but do not want to focus solely on a narrow specialty area. If that is true for you, you may want to get your certification as an adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner. In this specialty, you will be treating just about every person 18 years old and up. And as you might imagine, it is nearly impossible to know exactly what diseases you may encounter on a day-to-day basis. For some, that may be part of the excitement of going into this specialty--the thrill of unpredictability.

How Much Do Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioners Make

Adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioners are among the highest-paid nurse practitioners. Their hourly salary average is $55.03. Annually, that amounts to about $114,468.

Why Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NPs are Highly Paid

Adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioners are paid well for their ability to respond to the needs of diverse groups of people. In addition, they are also expected to make sound clinical decisions under pressure in a fast-paced acute care environment.

19.Telemedicine Nurse Practitioner ($113,883)

What is a Telemedicine Nurse Practitioner

Telemedicine nurse practitioners provide care to their patients by leveraging the power of technology. For some clinicians, the draw of being able to help others while having the flexibility of working remotely can be very appealing. As a telemedicine NP, you will assess, diagnose, and treat patients from your office or even your own home.

How Much Do Telemedicine Nurse Practitioners Make

Telemedicine NPs are highly-paid nurse practitioners. In this specialty, you can expect an annual salary of $113,883 or $54.75 per hour.

Why Telemedicine NPs are Highly Paid

It takes talent to be able to identify and treat medical issues on a remote basis and because telemedicine NPs are not always able to see their patients in person, they may have to rely on other skills, such as asking incisive and detailed assessment questions. This is a major reason why they are highly paid. And as our country moves towards improving healthcare access, especially to remote areas, we can continue to expect NPs skilled in telemedicine to become more valued professionals.

20.Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner ($113,387)

What is a Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

To be a pediatric primary care nurse practitioner, you must like variety and, more importantly, love working with children. Your role will be to treat kids, from babies to teenagers with different types of acute or chronic conditions. You will need to have the skills to treat children with different conditions, some of which may be serious. To go into this specialty, you may want to consider getting certified by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board as a CPNP-PC.

How Much Do Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioners Make

Pediatric primary care is among the highest-paid NP specialties. You can expect an average annual salary of $113,387, which translates to $54.51 per hour.

Why Pediatric Primary Care NPs are Highly Paid

Pediatric primary care nurse practitioners are paid well because of their unique understanding of conditions that affect children. Some childhood diseases may have subtle symptoms that require the trained eye of a pediatric specialist to identify. Moreover, you will also have to understand child development and be able to build relationships with parents.

21.Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner ($112,511)

What is a Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner

It takes a special kind of person who has the compassion and courage to treat children with cancer. As a pediatric oncology nurse practitioner, you will be one of these people. In this specialty, you will use your clinical knowledge to help children with cancer recover from their disease, or at least alleviate some of the untoward symptoms of having cancerous diseases. You can find work in this specialty by joining organizations like the Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses.

How Much Do Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioners Make

Pediatric oncology is one of the best-paying nurse practitioner specialties in 2024. Hourly wages are $54.09 on average or $112,511 annually.

Why Pediatric Oncology NPs are Highly Paid

Oncology pediatric nurse practitioners are highly paid because they deal with some very fragile individuals. Not only will your patients be children, but children who have potentially fatal diseases. Depending on where they are on their disease progression, your job as an oncology nurse practitioner is to help them attain the best quality of life possible.

22.Neurosurgery Nurse Practitioner ($112,384)

What is a Neurosurgery Nurse Practitioner

Specializing in neurosurgery fascinates people, almost in the same way people are in awe if you tell them you are some kind of rocket scientist. Why? Because the brain and the nervous system are perplexing even to medical professionals. If this specialty is your passion, you will not only be among some of the highest-paid nurse practitioners but possibly one of the most admired. You will be part of a team that provides surgical care for major diseases that involve the brain, the spine, and the intricate network of nerves in the human body.

How Much Do Neurosurgery Nurse Practitioners Make

Neurosurgery nurse practitioners earn an annual salary of $112,384, which amounts to $54.03 per hour.

Why Neurosurgery NPs are Highly Paid

As a neurosurgery nurse practitioner, your patients will have conditions that affect some of the most vital and delicate organs in the body. Providing surgical care to these people requires utmost precision. There is not much room for error and it is for this reason that neurosurgery NPs are highly paid.

23.Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner ($111,681)

What is an Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner

If the musculoskeletal system fascinates you, then perhaps you may want to consider being an orthopedic NP. From minor dislocations to hip replacements, there is no shortage of work in this specialty. You will prescribe treatments such as casts or participate in surgeries as you help restore the mobility of your patients. NPs who wish to specialize in this area can be certified as ONP-C.

How Much Do Orthopedic Nurse Practitioners Make

Orthopedic NPs are among the highest-paid nurse practitioners in the US. Their annual salary is $111,681. That is an hourly wage of $53.69.

Why Orthopedic NPs are Highly Paid

Orthopedic nurse practitioners are highly paid because orthopedics, in general, is a high-paying medical specialty. Your patients require critical care because, in many cases, musculoskeletal injuries can be very debilitating if left untreated. In addition, your training encompasses many treatment modalities, which include surgery. It is perhaps this knowledge of surgery that make orthopedic NPs such valuable, and thus, well-paid members of the medical team.

24.Rheumatology Nurse Practitioner ($110,782)

What is a Rheumatology Nurse Practitioner

Similar to orthopedic nurse practitioners, rheumatology nurse practitioners work with physicians who specialize in diseases involving bones and joints. However, rheumatology is primarily founded on internal medicine. This means that unlike those who specialize in orthopedics, rheumatology treatments are typically medical in nature, rather than surgical. Rheumatology nurse practitioners help patients with conditions like arthritis, lupus, and Lyme Disease.

How Much Do Rheumatology Nurse Practitioners Make

As a rheumatology nurse practitioner, you can expect an annual salary of $110,782 or an hourly wage of $53.26.

Why Rheumatology NPs are Highly Paid

Their expertise in treating chronic and (unfortunately) common conditions like arthritis makes rheumatology NPs one of the highly paid nurse practitioners in 2024. It takes highly specialized medical knowledge and strong assessment skills to design a treatment plan for patients who have joint diseases. This may require working with patients over a long period of time to ensure that their symptoms are being adequately addressed.

25.Neonatal Nurse Practitioner ($110,249)

What is a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

As a neonatal nurse practitioner, you will be caring for some of the most fragile and vulnerable people in society. You will most certainly be working in a hospital, and your patients will be newborn babies who are unfortunately born prematurely or have congenital conditions that may be life-threatening. Your job will be to help stabilize these infants and give them the best chance of living their lives to their fullest potential.

How Much Do Neonatal Nurse Practitioners Make

Neonatal nurse practitioners are some of the highest-paid nurse practitioners. Their salary is $110,249 annually on average, which is about $53.00 per hour.

Why Neonatal NPs are Highly Paid

If you decide to specialize as a neonatal nurse practitioner, you will be highly paid because you are providing critical care services. It is, after all, an intensive care unit, similar to the ones that cater to adults. The high salary in this specialty comes with the expectation that you must think on your feet because your patients, for the most part, are medically unstable.

26.Functional Medicine Nurse Practitioner ($110,244)

What is a Functional Medicine Nurse Practitioner

If you have never heard of functional medicine, do not fret. You are probably not the only one. Functional medicine aims to address the root cause of diseases, rather than just taking care of the symptoms. The medical community has not truly embraced this specialty, and thus you may find work in select clinics that adhere to alternative medicine. That does not mean though that you won’t have a rewarding career in this specialty, as functional medicine is one of the highest-paid nurse practitioner specialties.

How Much Do Functional Medicine Nurse Practitioners Make

Functional medicine nurse practitioners have an average hourly pay of $53.00 or an annual salary of $110,244.

Why Functional Medicine NPs are Highly Paid

Notwithstanding how some in the medical community view functional medicine, it is one of the growing number of alternative medicine fields in the United States. If you choose to specialize in this field, one reason you will be highly paid is not simply because of your medical knowledge, but also because of your pioneering role in this field.

27.ENT Nurse Practitioner ($110,118)

What is an ENT Nurse Practitioner

ENT nurse practitioners specialize in conditions that deal with the head and the neck. This is a very exciting field that treats conditions like hearing loss, Meniere’s Disease, among many other conditions. As an NP in this specialty, you may work in clinics or hospital settings with physicians, physician assistants, and other medical professionals to provide medical or surgical treatment to patients with conditions of the ears, nose, and throat.

How Much Do ENT Nurse Practitioners Make

Some of the highest-paid nurse practitioners specialize in ENT. Salaries in this field are, on average, $110,118 per year or $52.94 per hour.

Why ENT NPs are Highly Paid

Nurse practitioners who choose to focus on ENT must have a deeper understanding of diseases of the ears, nose, and throat than a generalist. ENT nurse practitioners are paid well for their expertise, which may require advanced study, clinical experience, and perhaps even certifications specific to this field.

28.Hepatology Nurse Practitioner ($110,067)

What is a Hepatology Nurse Practitioner

Hepatology is a unique specialty area for NPs. It is an area of medicine that deals with diseases of the liver, bile ducts, and the pancreas. In this specialty, you may work in hospitals or clinics. This is a rather small specialty area compared to others, but if it is something you are passionate about, you can definitely consider applying for AASLD Foundation’s Fellowship program. Not only will you gain knowledge in a highly specialized area, but you can also earn a salary for a full year in the process.

How Much Do Hepatology Nurse Practitioners Make

Hepatology nurse practitioners earn an hourly pay of $52.92 or an annual salary of $110,067.

Why Hepatology NPs are Highly Paid

Hepatology NP's are not just highly paid nurse practitioners, they are also highly valued experts in a niche field, treating millions of patients each year. Jobs as a hepatology NP may not be as ubiquitous as, say, family practice, but those who enter this specialty will most certainly be sought after. As a hepatology NP, you will be a valued team member with many growth opportunities.

29.Radiation Oncology Nurse Practitioner ($110,010)

What is a Radiation Oncology Nurse Practitioner

Radiation oncology is a sub-specialty within the field of oncology medicine. As a radiation oncology NP, you work with physicians and other medical professionals in providing radiation therapy, either in an outpatient or inpatient setting, to patients with neoplastic diseases. Radiation therapy is a form of treatment that uses waves to kill cancer cells.

How Much Do Radiation Oncology Nurse Practitioners Make

Radiation oncology NPs get paid $110,010 per year or $52.89 per hour, making it one of the highest-paid nurse practitioner specialties.

Why Radiation Oncology NPs are Highly Paid

Radiation oncology requires expertise in a technical field of medicine. NPs who specialize in this field are highly paid for their ability to safely administer a kind of cancer treatment that, if improperly used, can actually do more harm than good to patients. Radiation therapy can be detrimental not just to cancer cells, but also to good cells. As a radiation oncology nurse practitioner, it will be your responsibility to ensure that patients get the most benefit out of their cancer treatment.

30.Urology Nurse Practitioner ($110,000)

What is a Urology Nurse Practitioner

You may want to consider urology as a specialty if diseases of the urinary tract fascinate you. Urology nurse practitioners deal with a wide variety of conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, bladder cancer, among many others. One key thing to understand is that urology is a surgical specialty, so you may have an interest in surgery as well. You may find work as a urology NP in hospitals or the medical offices of urologists.

How Much Do Urology Nurse Practitioners Make

Urology NPs can expect to earn an annual salary of $110,000 or an hourly pay of $52.88.

Why Urology NPs are Highly Paid

Urology is a vital specialty that serves the medical needs of millions of people with genitourinary conditions. Urology NPs are highly paid nurse practitioners who have advanced knowledge and skills to understand and treat these conditions. This specialty, despite not being the first choice of many nurse practitioners is still the one that is definitely in demand and quite well-paid.

31.Endocrinology Nurse Practitioner ($109,840)

What is an Endocrinology Nurse Practitioner

Endocrinology nurse practitioners treat fairly common conditions like diabetes, but that is not all. The field of endocrinology encompasses many conditions that deal with hormonal imbalances and abnormalities. Thyroid diseases, growth hormone deficiencies, and glandular conditions are just some of the things you will deal with in this specialty. It is a highly interesting field of medicine that you can consider. Duke University is one institution you can look into if you want to take formal classes in this specialty.

How Much Do Endocrinology Nurse Practitioners Make

Endocrine NP's are among the most highly-paid nurse practitioners. Annual salaries are $109,840 on average, which is about $52.81 per hour.

Why Endocrinology NPs are Highly Paid

As with most medical professionals with highly specialized knowledge, endocrine NPs are well-paid for their strong expertise in a vital medical niche. Typically, those with more complicated endocrine conditions are referred to specialists’ offices, which may employ nurse practitioners. Unlike generalist nurse practitioners, your knowledge of endocrine conditions and their treatment is expected to be more in-depth and comprehensive.

32.Gastroenterology Nurse Practitioner ($109,719)

What is a Gastroenterology Nurse Practitioner

The digestive system involves many organs that must properly function individually and in concert with other organs within the system. As a gastroenterology nurse practitioner, it will be your job to ensure that your patients’ digestive tract is at an optimal level. You may provide preventative health education or prescribe treatments to manage various conditions. In some cases, you may even perform some diagnostic procedures such as endoscopy.

How Much Do Gastroenterology Nurse Practitioners Make

As a gastroenterology NP, you can expect an average annual salary of $109,719 or an hourly wage of $52.75.

Why Gastroenterology NPs are Highly Paid

Gastroenterology is among the highest-paid NP specialties because of the vast number of conditions that are encompassed by this specialty. Some of these diseases are serious and may be life-threatening. GI nurse practitioners need to be knowledgeable professionals who can assess subtle symptoms and find solutions that will not only solve a patient’s immediate symptoms but also help them achieve a better quality of life.

33.Nephrology Nurse Practitioner ($109,665)

What is a Nephrology Nurse Practitioner

Nephrology nurse practitioners work in a medical specialty that deals with conditions of the kidney. It is important to note that if you decide to go into this specialty, your role will be different from that of a urology NP. Urology is a surgical specialty while nephrology is a sub-specialty of internal medicine. If this specialty is of any interest to you, you may consider getting certified to demonstrate your commitment and competence.

How Much Do Nephrology Nurse Practitioners Make

Nephrology nurse practitioners make an average hourly wage of $52.72 per hour, which is equivalent to an annual salary of $109,665.

Why Nephrology NPs are Highly Paid

Nephrology is one of the highest-paying nurse practitioner specialties and that has to do with the critical role they play in enhancing the health and well-being of many individuals. Many renal diseases may be life-threatening and it cannot be stressed enough how important it is to have a clinician who has a high level of competence in this specialty area.

34.Integrative Medicine Nurse Practitioner ($109,662)

What is an Integrative Medicine Nurse Practitioner

As an integrative medicine nurse practitioner, you will become part of a growing movement of medical professionals who are supporting alternative medicine. Integrative medicine is a new paradigm in treating people. Its philosophy aims to use conventional medical knowledge and practices with other alternative forms of therapy. As an NP in this specialty, you will certainly be exposed to many treatment modalities that you may not learn in a traditional advanced practice nursing program.

How Much Do Integrative Medicine Nurse Practitioners Make

Integrative medicine NPs make, on average, an annual salary of $109,662 or $52.72 per hour.

Why Integrative Medicine NPs are Highly Paid

Integrative medicine is of the highest-paid NP specialties because of the unique knowledge they possess. Many clinicians today are still unfamiliar with the principles of alternative medicine. Those who consider themselves experts in this specialty area will not only be able to provide care to their patients but also serve as educators and innovators in their workplace and in the communities they serve.

35.Neurology Nurse Practitioner ($109,566)

What is a Neurology Nurse Practitioner

Are you interested in treating diseases of the nervous system but are not? If so, neurology may be the NP specialty area for you. Neurology nurse practitioners work with neurologists to treat many conditions that involve the brain and the nerves. But unlike neurosurgery, neurology is a medical specialty. You may treat familiar conditions like Alzheimer’s Disease and Parkinson’s Disease and be familiar with certain diagnostic procedures, such as CT scans or MRI.

How Much Do Neurology Nurse Practitioners Make

Nurse practitioners who specialize in neurology are paid, on average, an hourly rate of $52.68 or a yearly salary of $109,566.

Why Neurology NPs are Highly Paid

Neurology is one of the best paying nurse practitioner specialties. There are many complex diseases treated in this specialty, some of which are not even completely understood by the medical community. As an NP in this specialty, you will care for many individuals who may have lifelong, degenerative disorders. Your job is to help them achieve the best quality of life despite their disease.

36.Pulmonary Nurse Practitioner ($108,199)

What is a Pulmonary Nurse Practitioner

The COVID-19 pandemic may have increased our awareness of pulmonary disease only recently, but there has always been the prevalence of many other respiratory diseases out there. Some diseases you may encounter in this specialty include tuberculosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and lung cancer. If treating these conditions is something you are passionate about, being a pulmonary nurse practitioner may be a great option for you. You may sign up as a member of the Association of Pulmonary Advanced Practice Providers to build your network in this medical specialty.

How Much Do Pulmonary Nurse Practitioners Make

Pulmonary NPs make an average of $108,999 per year or $52.02 per hour.

Why Pulmonary NPs are Highly Paid

Pulmonary nurse practitioners are some of the most highly-paid nurse practitioners because they provide critical care. Respiratory diseases are medical priorities, as failure to manage them can easily result in severe discomfort, disability, or death. Pulmonary NPs need to have strong assessment skills and the ability to prescribe appropriate treatments both for acute and chronic respiratory conditions.

37.Chief Nurse Practitioner ($108,064)

What is a Chief Nurse Practitioner

Being a chief nurse practitioner is not a medical specialty in the traditional sense because it does not involve treating a particular organ system or a specific group of people. Instead, chief nurse practitioners are leaders who are involved in managing the operations of their respective organizations. Chief nurse practitioners typically perform administrative duties rather than clinical tasks. They may manage other NPs and be involved in staffing, education, and hiring decisions.

How Much Do Chief Nurse Practitioners Make

On average, chief nurse practitioners make an average salary of $108,064 per year or $51.95 per hour.

Why Chief NPs are Highly Paid

Chief nurse practitioners have some of the best paying nurse practitioner jobs in the country because of the high level of responsibility of their position. They ensure that healthcare organizations are functioning optimally and are well-equipped to provide the best care for patients. Although chief nurse practitioners do not always provide care at the bedside, their job is just as vital as their counterparts who are on the frontlines.

38.Pediatric Neurology Nurse Practitioner ($107,851)

What is a Pediatric Neurology Nurse Practitioner

NPs who love studying the complexities of the nervous system while also caring for children may be drawn to become pediatric neurology nurse practitioners. Because of the level of expertise needed in this field, some jobs in prominent hospitals like Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles may ask applicants to have several years of experience.

How Much Do Pediatric Neurology Nurse Practitioners Make

Pediatric neurology NPs make an average hourly wage of $51.85, which translates to an annual salary of about $107,851.

Why Pediatric Neurology NPs are Highly Paid

Pediatric neurology is one of the highest-paid NP specialties because of how delicate their job can be. Neurological diseases can be very complex, and the fact that your patients are children may make things more challenging. You will need to become an expert in the unique physiology of children and be able to explain some complicated concepts in a manner that is understandable for your patients and their parents.

39.Electrophysiology Nurse Practitioner ($107,762)

What is an Electrophysiology Nurse Practitioner

There are many areas of specialty that nurse practitioners can go into within the realm of cardiology, and electrophysiology is one of them. The American Heart Association has an in-depth explanation of electrophysiology, but it is essentially a way to test the heart for abnormal cardiac rhythms that can cause various physical symptoms, which can be life-threatening in some cases.

How Much Do Electrophysiology Nurse Practitioners Make

Electrophysiology nurse practitioners earn an average hourly pay of $51.81 or $107,762 per year, making it one of the highest-paying NP specialties.

Why Electrophysiology NPs are Highly Paid

Those who choose to specialize in managing cardiac diseases tend to be paid well because the heart is a major organ. That fact applies to those who further sub-specialize in a niche area like electrophysiology. Electrophysiology NPs must go beyond the basic knowledge they may have learned about electrophysiology while they were in school and either take additional continuing education classes or be an apprentice to doctors or other NPs who are experienced in this specialty.

40.Pain Management Nurse Practitioner ($106,785)

What is a Pain Management Nurse Practitioner

Just about every person has felt pain at some point in their lives. Often, the symptoms are mild and may only last for a short period of time. For others, however, pain can be chronic and debilitating. This is where pain management nurse practitioners come in. In this specialty, your job will be to design treatment plans that will give comfort to patients suffering from pain due to various types of diseases.

How Much Do Pain Management Nurse Practitioners Make

Pain management NPs are highly-paid nurse practitioners. Their average annual salary is about $106,785 or $51.34 per hour.

Why Pain Management NPs are Highly Paid

Nurse practitioners who specialize in pain management are highly paid for their ability to properly treat pain. Not all types of pain are the same and patients may have different pain thresholds. The different variables required to manage pain create the need for skilled pain management NPs who know the various types of medications and non-pharmacological treatments that can be used to treat pain.

41.Correctional Nurse Practitioner ($106,522)

What is a Correctional Nurse Practitioner

Have you considered working in a prison setting? As a correctional nurse practitioner, you will not only have one of the highest-paying NP jobs, but you will also have a unique career. Correctional NPs provide treatment to incarcerated individuals. Working in this specialty requires an open mind and a non-judgmental attitude. Your patients may be in jail, but they still have the right to have access to quality healthcare.

How Much Do Correctional Nurse Practitioners Make

Correctional nurse practitioners typically make an average hourly pay of $51.21 or $106,522 per year.

Why Correctional NPs are Highly Paid

Jobs in correctional settings are typically government positions, which means they are stable and well-paid. However, that is not the only reason why correctional NPs are highly paid. Working in this specialty comes with unique challenges. There may be legitimate safety concerns working in a prison system, and it can be stressful to provide medical care in a confined environment with strict rules and protocols. Nevertheless, this specialty can be financially and personally rewarding for the right person.

42.Perinatal Nurse Practitioner ($106,439)

What is a Perinatal Nurse Practitioner

Perinatal nurse practitioners have the special privilege of witnessing the miracle of life. In this specialty, you will not only care for women, but you will also ensure the health and well-being of the children they are carrying in their wombs. You will do more than just prescribe medications. You will also act as a counselor to pregnant women who may be worried or concerned. As a perinatal nurse practitioner, you are expected to be skilled at nurturing others.

How Much Do Perinatal Nurse Practitioners Make

Nurse practitioners in this specialty generally make about $120,002 per year. That amounts to a monthly salary of $10,000 or an hourly wage of $57.69.

Why Perinatal NPs are Highly Paid

Perinatal medicine is a high-paying nurse practitioner specialty because of the delicate nature of their job. Pregnancy can be a very critical time for women, as they are prone to all kinds of complications. Perinatal NPs bear a great responsibility in addressing the risks of pregnancy and potentially preventing them from happening.

43.Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner ($106,206)

What is a Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner

Many diseases produce several unpleasant symptoms. As a palliative nurse practitioner, you will help your patients achieve a better quality of life by managing these symptoms. You will also work as part of a team that may include other medical specialties. Your input will be valued by colleagues who treat a diverse range of conditions and patients who have unique needs. If this specialty interests you, you may want to consider becoming an Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse.

How Much Do Palliative Care Nurse Practitioners Make

Palliative care nurse practitioners earn an average hourly wage of $51.06, which translates to $106,206 per year.

Why Palliative Care NPs are Highly Paid

Palliative care is a specialty that requires a high level of expertise and that is a big reason why it is a highly paid NP job. One example of this is how palliative NPs address pain. Pain comes in many forms and for various reasons. As a palliative nurse practitioner, you are expected to have the advanced knowledge to distinguish between different types of pain and prescribe the appropriate treatments.

44.Family Nurse Practitioner ($105,898)

What is a Family Nurse Practitioner

When people think of nurse practitioners, they usually think of family nurse practitioners. Out of this list of the highest-paying NP specialties, family nurse practitioners are perhaps one of the most ubiquitous and visible. They treat everyone across the lifespan and have a vast knowledge of pediatric, adult, and geriatric diseases. They provide care in many settings and are one of the first clinicians that people consult for their medical issues. To become an FNP, you can get your certification from the American Nursing Credentialing Center.

How Much Do Family Nurse Practitioners Make

Annual salaries for family nurse practitioners are, on average, $105,898. This amounts to an hourly rate of $50.91.

Why Family NPs are Highly Paid

Family NPs are paid well for their versatility and their ability to treat a wide range of diseases in all age groups. Moreover, family nurse practitioners, depending on where they practice, may have full practice authority, meaning they can function without physician supervision. This is particularly true in places with limited healthcare providers, such as rural areas.

45.Vascular Nurse Practitioner ($105,702)

What is a Vascular Nurse Practitioner

Many people struggle with diseases that affect their circulation. As a vascular nurse practitioner, you will be one of the people helping these individuals. Vascular NPs work with vascular surgeons to treat conditions that involve the arteries, veins, and the lymphatic system. As a vascular NP, you will need to be familiar with common interventions used in this specialty, which typically includes surgical procedures.

How Much Do Vascular Nurse Practitioners Make

Vascular NP's earn an average annual salary of $105,702 or $50.82 per hour, which makes it one of the highest-paying nurse practitioner jobs.

Why Vascular NPs are Highly Paid

Vascular surgery is a medical specialty that requires technical medical knowledge and a high degree of clinical competence. Having the expertise to navigate a fairly complex specialty is a big reason why vascular nurse practitioners are highly paid. In addition, because vascular NPs work in a surgical specialty, they are also expected to have the skills to respond to critical care situations, and these skills are highly valued in the job market.

46.Travel Nurse Practitioner ($105,347)

What is a Travel Nurse Practitioner

Being able to travel to many places is a dream for many people, but not all are able to do so. But what if you could? Travel nurse practitioners do just that. Not only are travel NPs well paid, but they also have a very enjoyable job. You will have great flexibility in selecting your assignments while using your clinical skills. If this sounds interesting, you can sign up for organizations like the American Travel Health Nurses Association to develop your professional network.

How Much Do Travel Nurse Practitioners Make

As a travel nurse practitioner, you can expect an average hourly rate of $50.65 or an annual salary of 105,347.

Why Travel NPs are Highly Paid

A job as a travel nurse practitioner sounds like a lot of fun and is also one of the highest-paying NP specialties. But it is also serious business. Travel NPs are expected to provide a high level of care wherever they work. They are also expected to quickly adapt to their constantly changing environment. This is a big reason why they are highly paid.

47.Botox Nurse Practitioner ($105,158)

What is a Botox Nurse Practitioner

You may have heard about Botox in advertisem*nts and probably already have some idea about it. But did you know that Botox is derived from a very toxic bacteria? As a Botox nurse practitioner, you will use your knowledge of Botox in a therapeutic way. You will be prescribing and administering Botox treatments to many individuals. Some of your patients will be seeking treatment for aesthetic purposes. However, there are also individuals, like those with cerebral palsy, who may benefit from Botox treatments.

How Much Do Botox Nurse Practitioners Make

Some of the highest-paid nurse practitioner jobs out there are for nurse practitioners who specialize in Botox treatments. The hourly average wage in this specialty is $50.56, or about $105,158 per year.

Why Botox NPs are Highly Paid

Botox nurse practitioners are highly paid primarily because they handle a kind of medical treatment that can be deadly, if not used correctly. Botox treatments are more than just giving injections. It also entails having good assessment skills and the pharmacological knowledge of Botox.

48.NIH Nurse Practitioner ($104,828)

What is an NIH Nurse Practitioner

The National Institutes of Health is a large, globally recognized agency, known for its role in medical research and public health. Dr. Anthony Fauci, who has become a household name because of the COVID-19 pandemic is actually a director in one of the centers that make up the NIH. As an NIH nurse practitioner, you can fulfill many different kinds of roles, particularly in clinical trials. Your task will be to provide essential support and collaboration with other members of the research team.

How Much Do NIH Nurse Practitioners Make

NIH nurse practitioners make an average hourly wage of $50.40, which translates to $104,828 per year.

Why NIH NPs are Highly Paid

Nurse practitioners who work for the government, including those within the NIH, have some of the highest-paying nurse practitioner jobs in the country. But with a great paycheck and set of benefits comes great responsibility. As an NIH nurse practitioner, you have the noble role of contributing to the advancement of medical research in the United States and across the world.

49.Women's Health Nurse Practitioner ($103,930)

What is a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

Women have unique medical needs that require the expertise of a skilled and passionate nurse practitioner. If helping women manage their health is where your heart is, then you may find it rewarding to specialize in women’s health. To get into this specialty, you will need to have your WHNP-BC credential. You may find work in a variety of clinics, which may include physician offices or large outpatient centers.

How Much Do Women's Health Nurse Practitioners Make

As a women’s health nurse practitioner, you can expect an annual salary of $103,930. That is equivalent to $49.97 per hour.

Why Women's Health NPs are Highly Paid

Some of the highest-paid NP jobs are within the specialty area of women’s health. That is because women’s health NPs treat a huge segment of the population who have a wide variety of medical needs. These needs, whether they are measures to prevent disease or to treat a condition, may be unique to women only. Thus, it is important to have clinicians who have strong expertise in women’s health.

50.Genetic Nurse Practitioner ($103,816)

What is a Genetic Nurse Practitioner

Genetics is a fascinating field that can, at times, be mystifying for some people. But genetics is not simply an arcane science. Genetics can help people understand the conditions they are predisposed to, which in turn guides them towards healthy choices that will hopefully prevent them from having such diseases. As a genetics nurse practitioner, you will be using your highly specialized knowledge of genetics to lead people towards healthier lives.

How Much Do Genetic Nurse Practitioners Make

On average, genetics nurse practitioners make an annual salary of $103,816. This amounts to an hourly pay of $49.91.

Why Genetic NPs are Highly Paid

Genetics is one of the highest-paying nurse practitioner specialties because of the technical nature of this field of science. Working as an NP in this specialty may require you to acquire knowledge that requires further study beyond your typical NP program. Some institutions, like Vanderbilt University, even offer fellowships to help NPs develop expertise in genetics. Because of their advanced knowledge, genetics NPs are valued, and thus highly paid.

51.Diabetes Nurse Practitioner ($103,459)

What is a Diabetes Nurse Practitioner

Diabetes is a disease that leads to many complications, and unfortunately, it affects millions of people. As a diabetes nurse practitioner, you can do your part in solving this major epidemic. You may work in various settings, but your role will essentially be the same. You will be treating people who have the disease while also helping prevent disease in those who may be at risk. This means you may have to know more than just medications to treat diabetes. You may also need to have a strong foundation in nutrition, genetics, and perhaps, even psychology.

How Much Do Diabetes Nurse Practitioners Make

Diabetes NPs make an average hourly wage of $49.74, or $103,459 per year.

Why Diabetes NPs are Highly Paid

Diabetes can be an insidious disease. For this reason, some of the highest-paying nurse practitioner jobs are in the field of diabetes management. It requires having the ability to prescribe individualized treatments, which may include a combination of dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, or complex medication regimens.

52.Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner ($103,148)

What is a Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

If you are a nurse practitioner passionate about helping children in a fast-paced setting, then being a pediatric acute care practitioner may be the career for you. In this specialty, you will be working in the hospital, treating a variety of conditions in different medical units. Those who are interested in this specialty can get certified as a CPNP-AC through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.

How Much Do Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioners Make

Pediatric acute care is among the highest-paying nurse practitioner specialties. The average salary is $103,148 or an hourly rate of $49.59.

Why Pediatric Acute Care NPs are Highly Paid

Children have medical needs that are unique from adults. A firm understanding of children’s physiology is one reason why pediatric acute care NPs are highly paid. Another reason is that working in acute care requires more than just clinical competence. It also requires an ability to make quick, but competent decisions. That is a skill that comes with time, and one that is valued in the medical community.

53.Interventional Radiology Nurse Practitioner ($102,781)

What is an Interventional Radiology Nurse Practitioner

Interventional radiology is a specialty of medicine that treats patients using minimally invasive procedures using medical technology such as MRI, CT scan, or ultrasound. As an interventional radiology NP, you will not only be in one of the highest-paying nurse practitioner specialties, you will also assist many people in improving their quality of life without going through major surgery. Some places you may work in as an interventional radiology NP include hospitals or outpatient surgery centers.

How Much Do Interventional Radiology Nurse Practitioners Make

Interventional radiology nurse practitioners get paid an average hourly rate of $49.41 or an annual wage of $102,781.

Why Interventional Radiology NPs are Highly Paid

NPs in interventional radiology must be well-versed in various medical treatments used in this specialty. They are highly compensated because of their specialized knowledge in addition to their keen assessment skills and their ability to perform critical technical procedures. While interventional radiology is considered minimally invasive, this specialty is still one that requires a high level of clinical competence.

54.Navy Nurse Practitioner ($102,749)

What is a Navy Nurse Practitioner

Do you have a calling to serve your country? If so, you may want to consider becoming a nurse practitioner in the Navy. As an NP for the Navy, you will become part of their Nurse Corps who provide care for fellow servicemembers and their families. Besides being one of the highest-paying nurse practitioner jobs, working as an NP for the Navy is also a very noble profession.

How Much Do Navy Nurse Practitioners Make

NPs in the Navy have an average annual salary of about $102,749, or $49.40 per hour.

Why Navy NPs are Highly Paid

Working in the Navy is more than just a job. It is a commitment to serve your country. That means having to be deployed to many places, often in countries that are far from home. NPs are highly paid in the Navy because, like all other service members, they make great sacrifices for the common good. Another reason, of course, is that they are skilled clinicians who bring much-needed medical expertise to the Navy.

55.Sports Medicine Nurse Practitioner ($102,627)

What is a Sports Medicine Nurse Practitioner

People often think of athletes when they think of careers in sports. But being an athlete is certainly not the only way to work in the field of sports. There are many types of personnel needed to support organizations and athletes. Sports medicine nurse practitioners are one of them. You probably won’t win an Olympic medal as an NP in this specialty, but your services will certainly be valuable to the many athletes who need care for their injuries.

How Much Do Sports Medicine Nurse Practitioners Make

As a sports medicine nurse practitioner, you can expect an hourly rate of $49.34. That is equivalent to about $102,627.

Why Sports Medicine NPs are Highly Paid

Sports medicine is one of the highest-paid nurse practitioner specialties because athletes may depend on their physical health for their livelihood. Therefore, injuries, especially major injuries, can be quite devastating for them. In this specialty, your job is to help your patients rehabilitate and restore themselves to their fullest potential.

56.Surgical Nurse Practitioner ($102,222)

What is a Surgical Nurse Practitioner

The word surgery can make some people very queasy. Just the thought of having surgery can be very intimidating. Others, however, are fascinated by surgery. And if you are a nurse practitioner who belongs to this group of people excited by surgery, you can choose to become a surgical NP. You will work in the OR with a team of specialists, including physicians, surgical technologists, and other nurses in performing invasive procedures on patients with a wide variety of conditions.

How Much Do Surgical Nurse Practitioners Make

You can expect to make $49.15 per hour or $102,222 per year as a surgical nurse practitioner.

Why Surgical NPs are Highly Paid

Surgery is a serious business. Some of the highest-paying nurse practitioner jobs are in the field of surgery because of the critical services provided in this specialty. Any invasive procedure puts patients at risk for complications, including infections, hemorrhage, among other things. It takes strong clinical skills, quick thinking abilities, and intense focus in order to become a competent surgical nurse practitioner.

57.HIV Nurse Practitioner ($102,008)

What is an HIV Nurse Practitioner

HIV is a deadly disease that has claimed the lives of millions of individuals. As an HIV nurse practitioner, you will have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of these people. Your patients will require medical treatment as well as education on many things, such as preventing secondary infections and engaging in safe sex practices. You can choose to get certified if this specialty area interests you.

How Much Do HIV Nurse Practitioners Make

HIV nurse practitioners have an average hourly pay of $49.04. This amounts to about $102,008 per year.

Why HIV NPs are Highly Paid

HIV treatment is one of the highest-paying NP specialties because of the complex level of care required by patients who have an HIV-AIDS infection. They are prone to many medical complications because of their immunocompromised status. In addition, you may also be expected to be a counselor for your patients. HIV is unfortunately still stigmatized and this can greatly affect the psychological health of your patients.

58.Consultant Nurse Practitioner ($101,724)

What is a Consultant Nurse Practitioner

If you are a nurse practitioner who is often approached for your expert opinion, perhaps you may want to go into consulting. Consultant NPs can be found in many different areas within the medical field, and they are people whose experience, background, and skills have made them a resource for patients, colleagues, and organizations. As a consultant nurse practitioner, your work setting may vary and in some cases, you may even be able to start your own independent practice.

How Much Do Consultant Nurse Practitioners Make

Consultant nurse practitioners make an average annual salary of $101,724 or $48.91 per hour.

Why Consultant NPs are Highly Paid

If you are wondering why consulting is one of the highest-paying nurse practitioner jobs, just think of the common saying, “knowledge is power.” Consultant NPs possess knowledge that adds value to organizations, whether in clinical practice, management, or some other area. Regardless of their specific expertise, consultant NPs are paid very well because they help create healthcare systems that are more effective and efficient.

59.Ophthalmology Nurse Practitioner ($100,767)

What is an Ophthalmology Nurse Practitioner

The eyes are vital organs, and as such, they require great care. Ophthalmology nurse practitioners treat visual conditions and may work in physician offices and hospitals. Some examples of conditions that affect the eyes include glaucoma, cataracts, retinal detachment, among other things.

How Much Do Ophthalmology Nurse Practitioners Make

Nurse practitioners who specialize in ophthalmology earn an average annual salary of about $100,767, which translates to $48.45 per hour.

Why Ophthalmology NPs are Highly Paid

Ophthalmology is a field of medicine with some of the highest-paying nurse practitioner jobs because it is a specialty area focused on a sole organ. This means that you are expected to possess advanced knowledge that other nurse practitioners may not have. As an ophthalmology NP, you will be considered an expert in the field of eye care. Your medical opinion will be valued and you will be an integral part of the care of millions of people with various kinds of eye conditions.

60.Dialysis Nurse Practitioner ($100,676)

What is a Dialysis Nurse Practitioner

Kidney disease is a serious chronic condition that requires extensive treatment. One such treatment is dialysis, which is used by patients who either have acute or chronic kidney failure. There are several kinds of dialysis treatment and dialysis nurse practitioners are specialists who understand the complex nature of this type of treatment. They may work in acute settings or in outpatient centers.

How Much Do Dialysis Nurse Practitioners Make

Dialysis nurse practitioners have an average hourly wage of $48.40 and an annual salary of about $100,676.

Why Dialysis NPs are Highly Paid

Dialysis nurse practitioners work within a sub-specialty of nephrology. What this means is that they possess highly technical knowledge, a trait that generally carries a lot of value in today’s job market. Many of the highest-paying nurse practitioner jobs tend to be specialties that have very focused areas of expertise. Dialysis is certainly a focused specialty area that requires highly skilled clinicians.

61.Dermatology Nurse Practitioner ($100,562)

What is a Dermatology Nurse Practitioner

Dermatology nurse practitioners are clinicians who specialize in treating skin conditions, from common acne to malignant skin cancers. Treatments you may need to know more about in this specialty include cryotherapy, sclerotherapy, skin biopsies, and dermabrasion. Dermatology NP Jobs can typically be found in physician offices, aesthetic clinics, and facilities that specialize in skin cancer treatment. If this is a specialty you would like to get into, you may want to consider becoming certified as a DCNP through the Dermatology Nursing Certification Board.

How Much Do Dermatology Nurse Practitioners Make

Dermatology nurse practitioners have an average annual salary of $100,562 or $48.35 per hour.

Why Dermatology NPs are Highly Paid

Dermatology nurse practitioners have some of the highest-paid NP jobs available in today’s market because of their expertise in treating a major organ system. The skin is the largest organ in the body, and there are plenty of diseases that can arise from it. Dermatology NPs are valued for their expert knowledge in treating these conditions.

62.Transplant Nurse Practitioner ($100,331)

What is a Transplant Nurse Practitioner

Transplant nurse practitioners treat some of the sickest members of our society. Organ transplantation is typically considered a last resort when all other treatments have failed. As a transplant NP, you may treat patients who have severe lung disease, kidney failure, liver failure, or leukemia. This is a challenging field of specialty that requires competent and compassionate clinicians.

How Much Do Transplant Nurse Practitioners Make

Specializing in transplants can lead to some of the highest-paid NP jobs. Transplant nurse practitioners make an average annual hourly wage of $48.24 or $100,331 per year.

Why Transplant NPs are Highly Paid

Transplant nurse practitioners are highly paid primarily because of the expertise needed in caring for the types of patients within this specialty. Patients who undergo transplants are critically ill. Even after they receive a new organ, they will still continue to require ongoing monitoring and treatment to prevent organ rejection. Typically, this means lifelong use of medications with side effects that need to be followed closely by skilled clinicians like transplant NPs.

63.Occupational Health Nurse Practitioner ($100,116)

What is an Occupational Health Nurse Practitioner

As an occupational health nurse practitioner, your job is to ensure the health of people in the workplace. There are hazards to just about any job out there, and you will encounter injuries that range from minor ones to those that can potentially end a person’s career. Whatever the case may be, you are expected to use your clinical skills and judgment in treating these various conditions.

How Much Do Occupational Health Nurse Practitioners Make

Occupational health is among the highest-paying nurse practitioner specialties. Average yearly wages are about $100,116 or $48.13 per hour.

Why Occupational Health NPs are Highly Paid

Occupational health NPs are well-paid because they provide an essential service that benefits both employers and employees. By treating individuals with work-related injuries, occupational health NPs help these people maintain their ability to work and earn a livelihood. At the same time, ensuring the health of workers also benefits employers because when workers are healthy, they are productive.

NOTABLE NP JOBS THAT COULD NOT MAKE IT TO OUR LIST OF HIGHEST PAYING NURSE PRACTITIONER JOBS

(Although the following NP jobs could not make it to our list of highest-paying jobs for nurse practitioners, they do offer exciting career opportunities for nurse practitioners with salaries ranging from $90,000 to $99,999)

64.Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner ($99,735)

What is an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner:

Aesthetic nurse practitioners are known for providing cosmetic treatment. But that is not the only thing they do. Aesthetic NPs help their patients gain more self-esteem and lead happier lives by enhancing their appearance. Some procedures you may need to be familiar with in this specialty include laser treatments, liposuction, tattoo removal, among many others. Typically, aesthetic NPs work in clinic settings. If you would like to learn more, you may want to consider becoming a member of the American Association of Aesthetic Medicine and Surgery.

How Much Do Aesthetic Nurse Practitioners Make:

Aesthetics is one of the highest-paying nurse practitioner specialties. The average hourly rate in this field is $47.95 or $99,735 per year.

Why Aesthetic NPs are Highly Paid:

Aesthetic nurse practitioners are highly paid because of the high demand for their skills. Some people invest resources into cosmetic procedures and expect competent clinicians to perform these procedures. Working as an aesthetic NP requires a high level of skill because of the potential to harm patients through poor practice.

65.Emergency Nurse Practitioner ($99,710)

What is an Emergency Nurse Practitioner:

Are you an adrenaline-seeker who relishes the fast-paced environment of the emergency room? If so, you can choose to become an emergency nurse practitioner. You will encounter a wide variety of cases and be expected to think on your feet. Working in the ER is very rewarding and also happens to be one of the highest-paying nurse practitioner jobs in the market. Those who are interested in going into this specialty may get certified through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

How Much Do Emergency Nurse Practitioners Make:

Emergency NPs get paid an annual average salary of $99,710 which translates to about $47.94 per hour.

Why Emergency NPs are Highly Paid:

Problem-solving is a skill that carries a huge value in the job market. Because of that, emergency nurse practitioners are well-paid because their job revolves around solving problems all day long. Whether it is treating a minor fracture or a major gunshot wound, working in the ER requires critical thinking skills and an ability to stay focused in highly stressful situations.

66.Holistic Nurse Practitioner ($99,621)

What is a Holistic Nurse Practitioner:

Holistic medicine is one of the several growing areas of alternative medicine. It is also one of the many areas in which a nurse practitioner can specialize. Holistic NPs use the principles of holistic medicine to treat patients. In addition to their knowledge of traditional Western edicine, they must also know about treatments such as acupuncture, hydrotherapy, and hypnosis. Their role is to help provide these treatments and educate patients on their benefits.

How Much Do Holistic Nurse Practitioners Make:

Holistic practice can lead to some of the highest-paid nurse practitioner jobs. NPs in this specialty have an average hourly wage of $47.89 or $99,621 per year.

Why Holistic NPs are Highly Paid:

Holistic nurse practitioners are paid well because of their knowledge of treatments that may not be familiar to people. In fact, these treatments may not even be taught in traditional nurse practitioner programs. It is this specialized knowledge that makes holistic NPs valuable medical professionals. Also, holistic NPs help increase the diversity of treatment options available to healthcare consumers.

67.Army Nurse Practitioner ($99,344)

What is an Army Nurse Practitioner:

The U.S. Army is one of the most distinguished and revered armed forces in the world. As a nurse practitioner, you can be part of this corps of honorable men and women who have chosen to devote their lives to serving our country. As an NP for the army, you will be providing treatment to your fellow soldiers and their families.

How Much Do Army Nurse Practitioners Make:

Army nurse practitioners get paid an average annual salary of $99,344, which is equivalent to about $47.76 per hour.

Why Army NPs are Highly Paid:

While NPs in the army may not be on the frontlines of a battlefield, their role is very critical. Serving as an NP in the army can translate into one of the highest-paying nurse practitioner jobs because of the critical nature of services they deliver. Being an Army NP is more than just about treating wounded soldiers on the battlefield. Your skills will also be utilized in various areas, including mental health, family practice, and anesthesia.

68.Flight Nurse Practitioner ($99,231)

What is a Flight Nurse Practitioner:

Are you interested in critical care but do not want to work in the hospital setting? Perhaps, being a flight nurse practitioner may be the specialty for you. As a flight or critical care transport NP, you will provide medical care to critically ill patients while they are being transported from potentially dangerous environments. Some schools, like Case Western Reserve University, may have a program that lets nurse practitioners specialize as a flight NP.

How Much Do Flight Nurse Practitioners Make:

Average hourly pay for flight NPs is $47.71 or $99,231 per year.

Why Flight NPs are Highly Paid:

Working as a flight NP can be an exciting career, but it is definitely not easy. Critical care transport is one of the highest-paid nurse practitioner jobs because of the high level of clinical skills you need in this field. You may be faced with life-or-death situations, and your job is to ensure the well-being of your patients, who may be severely injured or critically ill.

69.Radiology Nurse Practitioner ($99,226)

What is a Radiology Nurse Practitioner:

Radiology nurse practitioners are clinicians who specialize in the use of radiologic medical technology for diagnosis and treatment. You will likely work in the hospital setting and your patients will likely have a diverse set of conditions. As an expert on radiology procedures, clinicians from other specialties may look to you for assistance in managing their patients.

How Much Do Radiology Nurse Practitioners Make:

Radiology is among the highest-paying nurse practitioner specialties. The average annual salary in this field is $99,226 or $47.70 per hour.

Why Radiology NPs are Highly Paid:

Radiology NPs are highly paid because of their mastery in a specialized kind of medical technology. There are many conditions that can be detected and treated through radiology, which is why it is critical to have clinicians who have expert knowledge in interpreting radiologic information. Radiology NPs are valued members of the healthcare team because their services are useful to other medical specialties that have a more organ system-based focus.

70.Infectious Disease Nurse Practitioner ($98,842)

What is an Infectious Disease Nurse Practitioner:

Microbes can be fascinating, but unfortunately, many of them also cause disease. Infectious disease nurse practitioners are the experts in identifying, treating, and managing diseases caused by harmful bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses. You may also be the person in charge of planning and implementing infection control measures at various facilities.

How Much Do Infectious Disease Nurse Practitioners Make:

NPs who specialize in infectious disease are paid an average annual salary of $98,842 or $47.52 per hour, which makes it one of the highest-paying nurse practitioner specialties.

Why Infectious Disease NPs are Highly Paid:

Infectious diseases can be challenging conditions to treat. For this reason, clinicians who specialize in infectious diseases are well paid. This specialty requires a great understanding of the various micro-organisms that can harm people. It also requires a strong knowledge base on the various types of treatments needed to manage infections. Lastly, and more importantly, infectious disease NPs are also highly paid because of their role in safeguarding public health by preventing infections as much as possible.

71.Hospice Nurse Practitioner ($98,660)

What is a Hospice Nurse Practitioner:

Hospice is a unique type of medical care that can lead to a very rewarding career. As a hospice nurse practitioner, you will be caring for patients with a life expectancy of six months or less. Your primary role is in ensuring that these patients are as comfortable as possible in their final moments. If you are interested in this specialty, there are organizations that you can connect with to develop a network with fellow clinicians in this field.

How Much Do Hospice Nurse Practitioners Make:

Hospice nurse practitioners are paid an annual salary of $98,660, which amounts to about $47.43 per hour.

Why Hospice NPs are Highly Paid:

Hospice care is one of the highest-paying nurse practitioner careers. This is mainly because of the specialized type of care received by hospice patients. Unlike other healthcare specialties, the focus of hospice is not to cure conditions. Rather, the focus is on alleviating the untoward effects of advanced, terminal diseases. This requires keen assessment skills and advanced knowledge of symptom management.

72.Fertility Nurse Practitioner ($97,053)

What is a Fertility Nurse Practitioner:

Having children can be a very fulfilling experience. Unfortunately, not all adults who wish to become parents are able to conceive children. If you are passionate about helping these people, then you may want to consider becoming a fertility nurse practitioner. In addition, you may also assist patients who have other reproductive issues in various settings, including hospitals and clinics.

How Much Do Fertility Nurse Practitioners Make:

Fertility nurse practitioners make an average hourly wage of $46.66, which translates to $97,053 annually.

Why Fertility NPs are Highly Paid:

Fertility medicine is one of the highest-paid nurse practitioner specialties because of the high level of expertise required in this field. In addition, many individuals look to fertility NPs not only for medical advice but also for support. Childbearing issues can be frustrating and depressing to some individuals and fertility nurse practitioners are vital in ensuring the physical and emotional well-being of their patients.

73.Mayo Clinic Nurse Practitioner ($96,808)

What is a Mayo Clinic Nurse Practitioner:

Chances are, you may have heard of the Mayo Clinic because it is a reputed healthcare organization known for providing world-class medical care. The Mayo Clinic employs a vast array of healthcare professionals, and nurse practitioners are one of them. Mayo Clinic NPs are found in various specialty areas and you can choose the one that feels right for you. You can find current job openings for nurse practitioners on their webpage.

How Much Do Mayo Clinic Nurse Practitioners Make:

Nurse practitioners who work for the Mayo Clinic have an average hourly pay of $46.54 or $96,808 per year.

Why Mayo Clinic NPs are Highly Paid:

Mayo Clinic offers some of the highest-paying nurse practitioner jobs in the country. That is because as a clinician for the Mayo Clinic, you are expected to uphold the standards that have made this organization one of the most revered and recognized healthcare institutions in the world. Working for the Mayo Clinic is not just a job, but an opportunity to grow as a medical professional.

74.Forensic Nurse Practitioner ($93,734)

What is a Forensic Nurse Practitioner:

Mainstream media has somewhat romanticized the field of forensics with shows like CSI. When we think of forensics, we may think of swashbuckling detectives hunting for evidence in odd places to solve high-profile cases. While that may be true to some extent, the field of forensics also needs people behind the scenes, such as nurse practitioners who can provide much-needed medical assistance to vulnerable crime victims. The International Association of Forensic Nurses offers a membership for those interested in this field.

How Much Do Forensic Nurse Practitioners Make:

NPs who specialize in forensics are among the highest-paid nurse practitioners in the job market. They have an annual salary of $93,734 or $45.06 per hour.

Why Forensic NPs are Highly Paid:

Forensic NPs are highly paid because of their expertise in caring for crime victims, particularly those who have been sexually assaulted. They are expected to not only have the clinical skills to address the medical needs of crime victims, but also the ability to work with criminal justice and legal professionals.

75.Long-Term Care Nurse Practitioner ($93,650)

What is a Long Term Care Nurse Practitioner:

Some clinicians may relish the fast-paced environment of hospitals, but others may opt for the more subdued long-term care setting. Long-term care nurse practitioners typically care for people with chronic and disabling conditions. One of the benefits of working in this type of setting is that clinicians get to know their patients very well. In the hospital setting, patients may come and go, which may leave little time for clinicians to develop a connection with their patients.

How Much Do Long-Term Care Nurse Practitioners Make:

As a long-term care NP, you can expect an average annual salary of $93,650 or an hourly pay of $45.02.

Why Long-Term Care NPs are Highly Paid:

Long-term care NPs are some of the highest-paid nurse practitioners today mainly because of their skills in managing chronic conditions. Diseases like diabetes, heart failure, and stroke require continuous management. Nurse practitioners who work in long-term care settings are expected to know these conditions well and be familiar in preventing complications from them.

76.Home Health Nurse Practitioner ($93,266)

What is a Home Health Nurse Practitioner:

If you like the idea of working in the community, perhaps you can specialize as a home health nurse practitioner. Home health NPs provide many of the same services provided by their counterparts in inpatient settings but do so in patients' homes. There is a great demand for the services of home health NPs nowadays that legislations have recently started to expand advanced nursing practice in this area, an example being the recently enacted Home Health Care Planning Improvement Act.

How Much Do Home Health Nurse Practitioners Make:

Home health NPs are paid an average hourly wage of $44.84, which translates to $93,266 per year.

Why Home Health NPs are Highly Paid:

Many of the highest-paying nurse practitioner jobs today are in home health because of the growing demand for home care services. More and more, people are opting to receive medical services in the comfort of their homes. This demand is fueling the need for competent clinicians like NPs who are comfortable in providing care outside of traditional healthcare settings like hospitals.

77.Public Health Nurse Practitioner ($92,882)

What is a Public Health Nurse Practitioner:

Public health nurse practitioners may wear many hats, but they have one important duty: to safeguard the health of their community. They may plan health programs, educate the community, monitor diseases and conditions, conduct assessments of health trends among the population they serve, or treat patients in a clinic. If public health sounds interesting to you, you may consider looking at the website of the American Public Health Association for networking or career opportunities.

How Much Do Public Health Nurse Practitioners Make:

Public health NPs, on average, make an annual salary of $92,882 or an hourly pay of $44.65.

Why Public Health NPs are Highly Paid:

Public health is among the highest-paying nurse practitioner specialties because of the breadth of responsibilities involved in this field. Public health NPs have a non-traditional role as a clinician because they are not limited to treating one patient at a time. They may care for entire populations and address issues that encompass other non-medical fields, such as politics, environmental science, among other things.

78.Air Force Nurse Practitioner ($92,698)

What is an Air Force Nurse Practitioner:

The armed forces of the United States is a vast organization that includes multiple branches. One of them is the Air Force, and if this branch interests you, there are opportunities to become a nurse practitioner. As with other branches of the armed forces, your duties as an Air Force Nurse Practitioner are plenty, and you may work in a number of areas as part of the United States Air Force Nurse Corps.

How Much Do Air Force Nurse Practitioners Make:

The Air Force has some of the highest-paid nurse practitioner jobs in the country. Air Force NPs make an average hourly wage of $44.57 or $92,698.

Why Air Force NPs are Highly Paid:

Air Force NPs are commissioned officers and because they are ranking officials, their pay grade is more advanced than many other service members. Moreover, nurse practitioners in the Air Force are highly paid because they are advanced practice clinicians, which means that their medical skills are highly valuable.

79.Clinical Research Nurse Practitioner ($92,344)

What is a Clinical Research Nurse Practitioner:

If doing research is more appealing to you than practicing at the bedside as an NP, one option is to become a clinical research nurse practitioner. It is one of the highest-paying nurse practitioner jobs and one of the most rewarding. Although your contact with patients may not be as extensive as someone who treats patients in other settings, your work will contribute to the advancement of healthcare as a whole.

How Much Do Clinical Research Nurse Practitioners Make:

Clinical research NPs make an average hourly wage of $44.40 or $92,344 annually.

Why Clinical Research NPs are Highly Paid:

NPs who work in clinical research are paid well because they are critical to completing potentially groundbreaking research that can help solve diseases and enhance the overall quality of healthcare in the country. Their assessment skills, critical thinking abilities, and clinical competence are valuable in ensuring that clinical studies are done to the highest medical standards.

80.Plastic Surgery Nurse Practitioner ($91,977)

What is a Plastic Surgery Nurse Practitioner:

When one thinks of plastic surgery, they may think of facelifts and other cosmetic procedures. That is one area of plastic surgery, but that's is not all. Another type of plastic surgery is reconstructive surgery, which involves treating patients who have body or facial defects as a result of injury or congenital conditions. Nurse practitioners who choose to go into plastic surgery can decide to focus on cosmetic surgery, reconstructive surgery, or both.

How Much Do Plastic Surgery Nurse Practitioners Make:

Plastic surgery is one of the highest-paid nurse practitioner specialties. The average annual salary of plastic surgery NP is $91,977, which is equivalent to $44.22 per hour.

Why Plastic Surgery NPs are Highly Paid:

Plastic surgery NPs are paid well for their advanced knowledge and clinical skills in a highly specialized area. The procedures performed in plastic surgery are not typically studied in a general nurse practitioner curriculum, and those who choose this specialty may need some type of additional training, whether on the job or through continuing education courses.

81.School Nurse Practitioner ($91,930)

What is a School Nurse Practitioner:

School nurse practitioners have a very interesting role. They are medical professionals and educators at the same time. In fact, in states like California, you need to have a credential to work in a school setting just like teachers do. Besides treating students in school clinics and health centers, school NPs may also develop educational programs designed to address health issues within the school or the district where they work.

How Much Do School Nurse Practitioners Make:

School nurse practitioners have some of the highest-paid NP jobs today. They are paid an average hourly rate of $44.20 or an annual salary of about $91,930.

Why School NPs are Highly Paid:

School nurse practitioners are well paid because they have a unique blend of professional skills. Not only are they medical specialists, but they are also educators who must have an understanding of teaching methodologies. Their input is highly valued by other educators because they can enhance a school’s curriculum by contributing highly specialized healthcare knowledge.

82.Substance Abuse Nurse Practitioner ($90,746)

What is a Substance Abuse Nurse Practitioner:

Substance abuse nurse practitioners are valuable clinicians who provide essential medical services to those struggling with drug addiction. Though often stigmatized in society, people with substance abuse issues need medical help and must have a competent and non-judgmental clinician to help them overcome their condition.

How Much Do Substance Abuse Nurse Practitioners Make:

NPs who specialize in substance abuse treatment make an average annual salary of $90,746 or an hourly wage of $43.63 per hour.

Why Substance Abuse NPs are Highly Paid:

Specializing in substance abuse treatment as an advanced practice nurse leads to some of the highest-paying nurse practitioner jobs today. The reason for this is that substance abuse can be a challenging condition to treat. Patients may react differently to treatments. They may relapse. Or they may be non-compliant. Skilled NPs are needed in order to create a treatment plan that would give those with substance abuse problems the best chance for recovery.

My Final Thoughts

Whether you are considering a career as a nurse practitioner or are already an NP looking for a job, one question you may have been asking is what are the highest-paid nurse practitioner specialties? Perhaps, it is this question that led you to read through this article. Of course, there are many other factors that go into deciding on a job. However, salary is definitely one of the most important considerations. Hopefully, this list of the 63 highest-paying nurse practitioner jobs for 2024 will help you make a sound decision as you progress through your healthcare career.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY OUR EXPERT

1.What Nurse Practitioner Specialty Is The Highest-Paid In 2024?

Cardiology nurse practitioners are the highest-paid nurse practitioners in the nation. There are several reasons why cardiology NPs are the highest-paid nurse practitioners. For one, they work with one of the most vital organs in the body. As such, they are expected to be extremely skillful. Second, cardiology NPs are highly paid because cardiology is a dynamic field that requires clinicians to be knowledgeable in many types of treatments and procedures. Third, there is a big demand for cardiology specialists due to the number of people with heart conditions, and that leads to higher salaries in this field. Another reason why cardiology NPs are highly paid is because there are several high-paying cardiology sub-specialties that raise the overall pay of cardiology NPs as a whole. Lastly, cardiology NPs are the highest-paid nurse practitioners because they can practice in many settings, including hospitals, clinics, and other outpatient centers.

Those who are just starting out as cardiology NPs earn an average hourly rate of $47.66 or $99,140 per year. With 1-4 years of experience, average annual salaries go up to $113,400 or $54.52 per hour. Those with 5-9 years of experience earn an average hourly rate of $64.16 or $133,460 per year. At 10-19 years of experience, annual wages are about $155,640 or $74.83 per hour. Lastly, cardiology NPs with more than 20 years of experience can expect to earn $89.72 per hour on average or about $186,620 per year.

2.What Are The 10 Highest-Paying Nurse Practitioner Specialties in 2024?

Below is a list of the highest-paid nurse practitioner specialties. Topping the list is cardiology with an average annual salary of $136,846. It is followed by psychiatric mental health and pediatric psychiatry with average annual salaries of $123,607 and $121,965, respectively. Internal medicine comes in next with an annual salary of $117,080, followed by oncology at $117,074 per year. Adult-Gerontology Primary Care is next on the list with annual salaries averaging $115,195. Wound care NPs make $114,504 annually. The last three of the top ten highest-paying NP specialties are adult-gerontology acute care ($114,468), pediatric primary care ($113,387), and pediatric oncology ($112,511).

3.What Are The 5 Highest Paying Industries For Nurse Practitioners in 2024?

The highest-paid nurse practitioner jobs can be found in five industries. Outpatient care centers pay average annual salaries of $123,850. Hospitals pay NPs $118,210 per year. Offices of other health practitioners pay about $112,040 to nurse practitioners. Meanwhile, offices of physicians pay NPs about $111,310 annually. Lastly, nurse practitioners in colleges, universities, and professional schools earn a salary of about $108,060 per year.

4.What Are The 5 Industries Hiring The Highest Number Of Nurse Practitioners in 2024?

As you review the list of the highest-paid nurse practitioner jobs, you should also consider where the jobs are. There are five industries that hire NPs more than other industries. Offices of physicians employ about 101,220 nurse practitioners. Hospitals have about 49,940 advanced practice nurses. Outpatient care centers come in third on the list as they employ 18,920 NPs. There are 6,970 NPs in colleges, universities, and professional schools, and 6,170 in offices of other health practitioners.

5.What Are The 10 Highest Paying States For Nurse Practitioners in 2024?

The following are the ten states where you are most likely to find the highest-paid NP jobs. California tops the list as NPs there make an annual salary of $145,970. New Jersey comes next with annual average salaries at $130,890. Washington state, on average, pays NPs $126,480 annually while nurse practitioners in New York and Massachusetts earn $126,480 and $126,440 per year, respectively. Nevada NPs have annual salaries of about $119,890. Minnesota NPs make an annual salary of $118,900 and those in Wyoming make $118,810 per year. Hawaii NPs have an annual salary of $118,890 while Oregon NPs make $118,600 annually.

6.What Are The 10 States Employing The Highest Number Of Nurse Practitioners in 2024?

Nurse practitioners are in demand across the country. However, there are states that tend to employ NPs more than others. California is the state that employs that most nurse practitioners as there are currently 15,100 in that state. New York has 14,850 NPs while Texas has 14,680. Florida and Ohio also employ many nurse practitioners as these two states have 13,010 and 9,430 NPs, respectively. The state of Tennessee currently employs 8,300 NPs while Pennsylvania has 8,150. Georgia is also a state that employs many NPs as it currently has 8,120. Illinois and Massachusetts are also among the top ten states that employ NPs as they have 6,890 and 6,430, respectively.

7.What Are The 10 States Hiring The Highest Number Of Nurse Practitioners in 2024?

Most of the openings for the highest-paying nurse practitioner jobs are in the states listed in the table below. The state of New York has a need for about 1,640 nurse practitioners. Meanwhile, California has annual job openings of 1,390. Texas and Florida each have job openings of 1,170 and 1,110, respectively. Meanwhile, there are 760 job openings for NPs each year in Illinois. Each year, the state of Tennessee hires about 730 nurse practitioners, while Georgia has a requirement of 660 NPs and Ohio 650. Pennsylvania and New Jersey have 570 and 560 NP job openings each year, respectively.

8.What Are The 10 Highest Paying Metros For Nurse Practitioners in 2024?

The table below shows the 10 metros with the highest-paid nurse practitioner jobs. Nurse practitioners in Vallejo-Fairfield, CA are paid $188,070 annually. Those in San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA have salaries of $177,800. In Salinas, CA, NPs have salaries of $155,310. The San Jose-Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, CA and Napa, CA areas have salaries of $153,240 and $152,640 for nurse practitioners, respectively. Meanwhile, NPs in the Sacramento-Roseville-Arden-Arcade, CA earn $148,150 annually. New Bedford, MA NPs make $147,510 annually. In Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA, NPs make $146,020 annually. Those in the Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA and Yuba City, CA areas make $145,740 and $145,080, respectively.

9.What Are The 10 Metros Employing The Highest Number Of Nurse Practitioners in 2024?

Jobs for the highest-paid nurse practitioner jobs are concentrated in several metro areas in the United States. There are 13,760 nurse practitioners in New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA. In Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, MA-NH, there are 4,950 nurse practitioners. The Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI and Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA metros each have 4,760 and 4,740 NPs, respectively. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA metro area has 4,550 NPs. There are 4,320 NPs employed in the Dallas-Forth Worth-Arlington, TX area and 4,150 in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD. In the Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, FL area, there are 3,620 nurse practitioners. The Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX and Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ metro areas employ 3,520 and 3,430 NPs.

Sources

1.Ziprecruiter.com
2.Payscale.com