CNA Salaries by State
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) form an integral part of the healthcare ecosystem, providing direct patient care and support to medical staff. Their roles are diverse, ranging from assisting with daily activities such as bathing and feeding to taking vital signs. Consequently, understanding the salary structure for CNAs is crucial for those considering this fulfilling, yet demanding, career path.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the median annual wage for nursing assistants, which includes CNAs, was $30,850 as of May 2020. Salaries, however, can fluctuate significantly based on factors such as geographical location, level of experience, specialized certifications, and the type of healthcare facility. For instance, CNAs working in states like Alaska, New York, and California often earn higher salaries due to increased living costs and higher healthcare demand in these regions.
In addition to base salaries, CNAs often receive benefits that can substantially increase their overall compensation. These benefits may include health insurance, retirement contributions, paid time off, and even tuition reimbursement for those wishing to pursue further education in the healthcare field. Despite the demanding nature of the role, a career as a CNA can offer not only a competitive salary and benefits package but also a rewarding and enriching professional experience within the vital healthcare sector.
CNA Salary and Hourly Wage by State
| State | Yearly Salary | Monthly Salary | Weekly Salary | Hourly Pay | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $36,384 | $3,032 | $699 | $17.49 | |
| Tennessee | $34,757 | $2,896 | $668 | $16.71 | |
| Massachusetts | $34,385 | $2,865 | $661 | $16.53 | |
| Hawaii | $34,205 | $2,850 | $657 | $16.44 | |
| Minnesota | $33,890 | $2,824 | $651 | $16.29 | |
| Nevada | $33,781 | $2,815 | $649 | $16.24 | |
| Connecticut | $33,707 | $2,808 | $648 | $16.21 | |
| Washington | $33,093 | $2,757 | $636 | $15.91 | |
| Rhode Island | $33,059 | $2,754 | $635 | $15.89 | |
| New York | $32,851 | $2,737 | $631 | $15.79 | |
| Alaska | $32,688 | $2,724 | $628 | $15.72 | |
| Oregon | $32,567 | $2,713 | $626 | $15.66 | |
| Wisconsin | $32,546 | $2,712 | $625 | $15.65 | |
| North Dakota | $32,190 | $2,682 | $619 | $15.48 | |
| Ohio | $32,090 | $2,674 | $617 | $15.43 | |
| Utah | $31,362 | $2,613 | $603 | $15.08 | |
| Iowa | $31,251 | $2,604 | $600 | $15.02 | |
| Maryland | $31,140 | $2,595 | $598 | $14.97 | |
| New Mexico | $31,071 | $2,589 | $597 | $14.94 | |
| New Hampshire | $30,957 | $2,579 | $595 | $14.88 | |
| South Dakota | $30,605 | $2,550 | $588 | $14.71 | |
| Virginia | $30,581 | $2,548 | $588 | $14.70 | |
| California | $30,339 | $2,528 | $583 | $14.59 | |
| Vermont | $30,096 | $2,508 | $578 | $14.47 | |
| Idaho | $30,031 | $2,502 | $577 | $14.44 | |
| Nebraska | $29,856 | $2,488 | $574 | $14.35 | |
| Delaware | $29,644 | $2,470 | $570 | $14.25 | |
| Colorado | $29,619 | $2,468 | $569 | $14.24 | |
| Kansas | $29,467 | $2,455 | $566 | $14.17 | |
| South Carolina | $29,218 | $2,434 | $561 | $14.05 | |
| Arizona | $28,988 | $2,415 | $557 | $13.94 | |
| Arkansas | $28,839 | $2,403 | $554 | $13.87 | |
| Wyoming | $28,766 | $2,397 | $553 | $13.83 | |
| Mississippi | $28,732 | $2,394 | $552 | $13.81 | |
| Maine | $28,446 | $2,370 | $547 | $13.68 | |
| Montana | $28,389 | $2,365 | $545 | $13.65 | |
| Oklahoma | $28,197 | $2,349 | $542 | $13.56 | |
| Indiana | $28,106 | $2,342 | $540 | $13.51 | |
| Kentucky | $27,988 | $2,332 | $538 | $13.46 | |
| Michigan | $27,981 | $2,331 | $538 | $13.45 | |
| West Virginia | $27,614 | $2,301 | $531 | $13.28 | |
| Illinois | $27,231 | $2,269 | $523 | $13.09 | |
| Louisiana | $27,132 | $2,261 | $521 | $13.04 | |
| Pennsylvania | $27,107 | $2,258 | $521 | $13.03 | |
| Missouri | $26,976 | $2,248 | $518 | $12.97 | |
| Texas | $26,602 | $2,216 | $511 | $12.79 | |
| Alabama | $25,656 | $2,138 | $493 | $12.34 | |
| Florida | $24,867 | $2,072 | $478 | $11.96 | |
| North Carolina | $24,627 | $2,052 | $473 | $11.84 | |
| Georgia | $23,185 | $1,932 | $445 | $11.15 | |
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CNA Salary Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)? The average annual salary for a CNA in the United States is approximately $30,000.
How does CNA salary vary by state? CNA salary can significantly vary by state, influenced by factors such as cost of living, demand for CNAs, and state regulations. Generally, states with a higher cost of living like California or New York tend to pay higher salaries.
How does experience affect a CNA’s salary? More experienced CNAs generally earn a higher salary compared to those just starting their careers. As CNAs gain more experience and specialized skills, they can negotiate for higher pay.
Does a CNA’s work setting impact their salary? Yes, a CNA’s work setting can impact their salary. CNAs who work in hospitals, for example, might earn more than those working in home healthcare settings or nursing care facilities.
What benefits are typically included in a CNA’s compensation package? In addition to base salary, a CNA’s compensation package may include benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, and sometimes tuition reimbursement for furthering education in the field.
How do CNA salaries compare to other nursing roles? CNA salaries are typically lower than those of more advanced nursing roles, such as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Registered Nurses (RNs), which
What is the average salary for a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)? The average annual salary for a CNA in the United States is approximately $30,000.
How does CNA salary vary by state? CNA salary can significantly vary by state, influenced by factors such as cost of living, demand for CNAs, and state regulations. Generally, states with a higher cost of living like California or New York tend to pay higher salaries.
How does experience affect a CNA’s salary? More experienced CNAs generally earn a higher salary compared to those just starting their careers. As CNAs gain more experience and specialized skills, they can negotiate for higher pay.
Does a CNA’s work setting impact their salary? Yes, a CNA’s work setting can impact their salary. CNAs who work in hospitals, for example, might earn more than those working in home healthcare settings or nursing care facilities.
What benefits are typically included in a CNA’s compensation package? In addition to base salary, a CNA’s compensation package may include benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, and sometimes tuition reimbursement for furthering education in the field.
How do CNA salaries compare to other nursing roles? CNA salaries are typically lower than those of more advanced nursing roles, such as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Registered Nurses (RNs), which require more education and training.
What are the opportunities for salary growth as a CNA? With additional training and certification, a CNA could potentially move into higher paying roles like an LPN or RN. Specializing in a specific area of care may also offer higher pay.
Is overtime pay available for CNAs? Many CNAs work more than the standard 40-hour work week and are eligible for overtime pay, though this can vary depending on the specific employment situation.
What is the starting salary for a CNA? The starting salary for a CNA varies depending on location and employer, but it typically ranges from $20,000 to $25,000 per year.
How often do CNAs typically receive pay increases? Pay increases for CNAs can vary widely based on factors like performance, employer policies, and the local cost of living. Many employers offer annual performance reviews, which can be an opportunity for a pay increase.