Understanding CRNA Salary in the UK: NHS Pay Bands and Equivalent Roles

What Is a CRNA Salary in the UK?

If you have searched for “CRNA salary” expecting UK figures, you have likely encountered a US term. In the United States, a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is an advanced practice nurse who administers anaesthesia. The UK does not use the title “CRNA”. Instead, the closest roles are anaesthetic nurses and operating department practitioners (ODPs). These professionals work alongside anaesthetists in operating theatres, critical care units, and emergency departments.

Because the role is not directly comparable, there is no single “CRNA salary” in the UK. However, we can look at NHS pay bands that cover these roles, along with bank rates and national earnings data, to give you a practical picture.

NHS Pay Bands for Anaesthetic Nurses (2026/27)

The NHS uses the Agenda for Change pay system. Anaesthetic nurses and ODPs are typically employed at Band 5 (newly qualified or staff nurse level), Band 6 (specialist or experienced), or Band 7 (senior or charge nurse). The pay guides on our site explain how bands work.

From 1 April 2026, the hourly rates (standard working hours) are:

• Band 5: Entry £16.40, Mid £17.69, Top £19.97
• Band 6: Entry £20.44, Mid £21.57, Top £24.61
• Band 7: Entry £25.26, Mid £26.56, Top £28.90

These rates come from the NHS Employers pay scales for 2026/27. Annual salaries range from £38,488 (Band 5 entry) to £65,261 (Band 7 top). Higher cost area supplements (HCAS) apply in London and the South East, adding up to 20% of basic salary.

Bank and Overtime Rates

Many anaesthetic nurses work on the NHS staff bank or take overtime shifts. Bank rates are often higher to attract staff. For example, a Band 5 specialist (SP) in theatres, critical care, or renal dialysis earns:

• Day: £23.00/hr
• Night/Saturday: £26.00/hr
• Sunday/Bank Holiday: £29.00/hr

These rates include a recruitment and retention premium. Overtime for permanent staff is paid at time-and-a-half for extra hours, and double time for public holidays. Band 8 and above staff are not entitled to overtime in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

How Does This Compare to UK Average Earnings?

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports that median weekly earnings for full-time employees were £766.60 in April 2025 (about £19.67 per hour). A Band 5 anaesthetic nurse at the top of the band earns £19.97 per hour, which is slightly above the national median. A Band 6 specialist earns well above the median.

However, take-home pay depends on hours worked, unsocial hours, and location. A Band 5 nurse working nights and weekends can earn significantly more than the basic rate. Our pay data page has more details on how to calculate actual earnings.

Private Sector and Locum Work

Some anaesthetic nurses work in private hospitals or as locums. Private sector pay can be higher than NHS rates, but it often lacks the pension and leave benefits of the NHS. Locum agencies may offer £30–£45 per hour for theatre shifts, but these rates are not guaranteed and vary by region.

Key Takeaways

• “CRNA salary” is not a UK term – look for anaesthetic nurse or ODP roles.
• NHS pay bands 5–7 cover most roles, with hourly rates from £16.40 to £28.90.
• Bank and overtime rates can increase earnings by 50–100% for unsocial hours.
• Location matters – London HCAS adds 20% to basic pay.

For a full breakdown of all NHS pay bands, visit our topics section. If you are considering a career in anaesthetic nursing, check the about page for training routes and entry requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does CRNA mean in the UK?

CRNA stands for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, a US role. In the UK, the equivalent roles are anaesthetic nurses or operating department practitioners (ODPs). These professionals work in theatres, critical care, and emergency departments, and are paid under NHS Agenda for Change bands 5 to 7 depending on experience and specialism.

How much does an anaesthetic nurse earn in the UK?

Based on NHS pay scales for 2026/27, an entry-level anaesthetic nurse (Band 5) earns £16.40 per hour, rising to £19.97 per hour at the top of the band. A specialist anaesthetic nurse (Band 6) earns £20.44 to £24.61 per hour. Senior roles (Band 7) earn £25.26 to £28.90 per hour. Overtime and unsocial hours payments can increase these rates significantly.

Is the CRNA salary higher than other nursing roles in the UK?

Anaesthetic nursing roles typically fall within bands 5–7, which are similar to other specialist nursing roles such as intensive care or A&E. The pay is determined by the band, not the specialism. However, bank rates for anaesthetic specialists can be higher due to demand. For example, Band 5 SP bank day rate is £23.00/hr compared to standard Band 5 day rate of £16.40/hr.