▼13%
$102,435
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$74k
MEDIAN
$102k
90%
$132k
The average salary for a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) is $102,435 in 2025
Base Salary
$74k - $132k
Bonus
$1k - $22k
Total Pay
$68k - $142k
Is Average Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Salary your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)s?
What Do Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)s Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
How do Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)s Rate Their Jobs?
Based on 26 responses, the job of Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) has received a job satisfaction rating of 3.92 out of 5. On average, Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)s are highly satisfied with their job.
Common Health Benefits for a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
Medical
82%
Dental
80%
Vision
75%
None
18%
Gender Breakdown for Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)s
Female
94.0%
Male
6.0%
This data is based on 84 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)s
What is the highest pay for Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)s?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) is $132k / year
What is the lowest pay for Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)s?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) is $74k / year
How can Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)s increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) that oversees more junior Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)s, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.