Anesthesiologist Assistant Salary Realities: How Starting Pay Broke the $200K Barrier
By Alexander Ross
Geographic mobility represents the most critical strategic consideration for anyone entering the CAA field. Unlike nurse anesthetists, who are licensed in all 50 states, CAAs currently practice in roughly 20 states plus Washington, D.C., and the U.S. territory of Guam, as well as throughout the federal Veterans Affairs health system.
State-by-state wage comparisons reflect this regulatory map:
- Texas and Florida: These states feature high concentrations of large private-practice anesthesia groups and extensive outpatient surgery networks. First-year packages average $205,000 to $225,000. Favorable state income tax conditions further amplify take-home pay.
- Georgia and Ohio: Home to legacy training programs at Emory University and Case Western Reserve University, these states host mature, integrated practice models. Salaries average $195,000 to $215,000, balanced by lower Midwestern and Southeastern costs of living.
- Colorado and Wisconsin: High demand across academic health centers and regional networks keeps base rates competitive at $200,000 to $220,000, though available positions fill quickly due to desirable lifestyle locations.
Legislative advocacy through state medical societies continues to introduce licensing recognition bills in new jurisdictions each year. In states where practice is authorized, employer adoption rates are rapid, prompting immediate regional bidding wars for experienced assistants.
Alexander Ross has covered the video game industry for a decade, writing deep dives on game design, esports tournaments, VR developments, and gaming culture.
