Anesthesiology Locum Compensation Benchmarks
Survey data by region and facility setting. Source: BLS OEWS, AMN Healthcare, CHG Healthcare. For informational purposes only.
How does your offer compare?
Enter your rate to see where it falls against these benchmarks.
Compare to Market Data →Regional Benchmark Data
P25 / Median / P75 hourly rates in $/hr
| Region | Setting | P25 | Median | P75 | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northeast | Urban Hospital | $230 | $265 | $305 | BLS OEWS 2024 + AMN Healthcare 2025 Survey |
| Rural Critical Access | $245 | $285 | $330 | BLS OEWS 2024 + CHG Healthcare 2025 Survey | |
| Midwest | Urban Hospital | $215 | $250 | $285 | BLS OEWS 2024 + AMN Healthcare 2025 Survey |
| Rural Critical Access | $230 | $268 | $310 | BLS OEWS 2024 + CHG Healthcare 2025 Survey | |
| South | Urban Hospital | $210 | $245 | $278 | BLS OEWS 2024 + AMN Healthcare 2025 Survey |
| Rural Critical Access | $225 | $260 | $300 | BLS OEWS 2024 + Weatherby Healthcare 2025 | |
| West | Urban Hospital | $240 | $278 | $320 | BLS OEWS 2024 + AMN Healthcare 2025 Survey |
| Rural Critical Access | $255 | $298 | $345 | BLS OEWS 2024 + CHG Healthcare 2025 Survey |
Market Overview
Anesthesiology commands some of the highest locum rates of any specialty, driven by a persistent national shortage and the OR scheduling demands of surgical programs. Locum anesthesiologists fill coverage gaps during vacations, CRNA supervision requirements, and facility expansions. Regional variation is significant due to the California market effect.
Key Leverage Points
Urban Hospital
- Cardiac and thoracic subspecialty training commands a 20–30% premium over general anesthesia
- OB anesthesia availability (24/7 epidural coverage) is a high-value negotiating asset
- Pediatric anesthesia experience significantly expands your available assignments
- Medical direction vs. supervision model affects your rate — clarify CRNA ratio in advance
Rural Critical Access
- Solo anesthesia coverage at critical access hospitals commands the highest rural premiums
- Obstetric coverage capability is critical for rural hospital survival — leverage it
- Travel and housing are always included; negotiate for a rental car or mileage reimbursement
- Willingness to do pain management alongside OR coverage expands your negotiating position
Contract Review Checklist
Items to review carefully before signing
- CRNA supervision ratio not specified — unlimited supervision obligation is unsustainable
- Call commitments after hours without a separate call rate — standard is 1.5x
- Malpractice tail not included — anesthesia tail coverage is expensive; confirm who pays
- OR start times not specified — arriving to an 07:00 first case at 06:30 is not the same as 08:00
Anesthesiology Negotiation Toolkit
Expanded benchmark tables, sample negotiation language, contract review checklist, and state-by-state take-home comparisons. One-time purchase.
View Toolkit →