How Much Do Certified Nursing Assistants Make?
Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) work directly under registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to assist patients with a wide variety of needs. CNAs help patients reposition, eat, and groom themselves. In some settings, they may administer tube feedings or perform point-of-care testing like blood glucose checks.
The CNA profession is projected to grow through the year 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Certified nursing assistant compensation can vary based on geographical location, work setting, and experience level. Aspiring and current CNAs may follow this guide to better understand how to maximize their earnings.
Just the Highlights: Certified Nursing Assistant Salaries
Certified nursing assistants can earn the highest average annual salaries in these locations and work settings:
Alaska State
$47,080
San Francisco, CA
$56,530
Junior Colleges
No Record Found
How Much Do Certified Nursing Assistants Make?
On average, certified nursing assistants in the United States earn an annual salary of $39,610, which equals $19.04 per hour. This amount, however, can increase or decrease depending on several factors outlined in this guide.
Certified nursing assistant average annual salary
$39,610
Certified nursing assistant average hourly wage
$19.04
The lowest 10% of CNA salaries is $30,020, while the highest 10% is closer to $48,780, according to BLS records from 2022. However, other job sites report CNA salary can range from $30,020 to $48,780.
Certified Nursing Assistant Salary Range
Source: BLS
How Education Affects Certified Nursing Assistant Salaries
Certified nursing assistants are required to complete a state-approved CNA program, which can take four to eight weeks. After graduation, CNAs must take The National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) examination, which includes both written and practical portions.
After passing this exam, candidates are considered certified nursing assistants. Most states require CNAs to get recertified every two years. Prospective certified nursing assistants have many programs to choose from, but typically, no program will offer higher pay upon graduation.
Location and Certified Nursing Assistant Salaries
A CNA’s salary can vary greatly based on where in the U.S. they work. For example, they can earn the most in western states (including Alaska) and some northeastern states. The Southeast and Texas pay their CNAs the lowest, on average, but many pay ranges are based on the cost of living in the area.
| Top-Paying States for Nursing Assistants: |
|---|
| Washington, D.C. | $47,860 |
| Alaska | $47,080 |
| California | $47,070 |
| Oregon | $46,970 |
| Washington | $46,430 |
Source: BLS
Top-Paying Certified Nursing Assistant Salaries by City
CNAs who choose to work in more urban, populated locations typically earn a higher salary than those who work in a rural setting. The cost of living in and near cities is higher, and CNA compensation reflects the difference.
| Top-Paying Certified Nursing Assistant Salaries by City: |
|---|
| Bismarck, ND | $19.79 | $41,160 |
| Grand Forks, ND-MN | $19.57 | $40,700 |
| Fargo, ND-MN | $19.50 | $40,570 |
| Peoria, IL | $19.13 | $39,780 |
| Morgantown, WV | $17.79 | $37,010 |
| Bloomsburg-Berwick, PA | $17.23 | $35,830 |
| Greenville, NC | $16.53 | $34,390 |
| Homosassa Springs, FL | $15.85 | $32,970 |
| Rome, GA | $15.60 | $32,440 |
| Hot Springs, AR | $14.86 | $30,900 |
Source: BLS
Workplace Type and Certified Nursing Assistant Salaries
Compensation for certified nursing assistants relies heavily on workplace type. CNAs can earn the most teaching at junior colleges but also make a higher-than-average salary in dentist offices and trade schools.
| Top Paying Industries for Nursing Assistants: |
|---|
| Offices of Dentists | $57,450 | $27.62 |
| Employment Services | $45,460 | $21.86 |
| General Medical and Surgical Hospitals | $40,840 | $19.63 |
| Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities) | $38,730 | $18.62 |
| Continuing Care Retirement Communities and Assisted Living Facilities for the Elderly | $37,660 | $18.11 |
| Home Health Care Services | $35,640 | $17.13 |
Source: BLS
How to Increase Your Earnings as a Certified Nursing Assistant
When a certified nursing assistant wants to increase their earnings, they can make a few changes for higher earning potential. From trying a new workplace type to taking on extra shifts, CNAs have plenty of options.
1. Try a New Work Setting
Some workplaces can offer higher compensation to their CNAs because their location or facility type has a higher budget. CNAs working in a nursing home, for example, may be able to earn a higher wage in a dentist’s office.
2. Apply for a Teaching Position
The BLS reports some of the highest-paying roles for CNAs lie in the education sector. CNAs looking for higher compensation can apply for jobs teaching certified nursing assistant students at a local vocational school, community college, or technical school.
3. Work Extra Shifts
When a CNA’s role includes 8, 10, or 12-hour shifts, they often have the opportunity to pick up more than their allotted weekly hours. Overtime, weekend, night, and holiday pay can give a CNA a quick pay boost.
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) Salaries FAQs
1. What roles offer the highest pay for certified nursing assistants?
The BLS reports dentist offices offer the highest-paying CNA role at $57,450 a year, or $27.62 an hour. Technical colleges, trade schools, and universities also offer higher-than-average pay.
2. What do certified nursing assistants make per hour?
Certified nursing assistants make an average of $19.04 an hour, which is $39,610 a year. These pay rates represent national averages and can vary depending on location, experience, and employer.
3. How can a CNA increase their pay?
To earn higher compensation, CNAs may switch to a higher-paying work setting, try teaching at a local community or vocational school, or take on extra shifts. Holiday, weekend, and night shifts also offer a higher wage.
