CNA Salary Information
Comprehensive salary data to help you understand CNA earning potential across the nation.
Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Actual salaries vary by location, experience, facility type, and shift differentials.
Top Paying States for CNAs
Salary by Facility Type
Where you work significantly impacts your earning potential as a CNA. Different healthcare settings offer varying compensation levels:
- Hospitals: $38,000 - $45,000 annually • Highest paying setting with opportunities for overtime and shift differentials
- Skilled Nursing Facilities: $32,000 - $38,000 annually • Most common CNA employer with stable employment
- Assisted Living Facilities: $30,000 - $36,000 annually • Regular schedules with predictable hours
- Home Health Care: $28,000 - $42,000 annually • Wide range based on hourly vs. visit-based pay structure
- Rehabilitation Centers: $35,000 - $40,000 annually • Specialized care with higher compensation
Shift Differentials
Evening shifts (3pm-11pm): 10-15% additional pay
Night shifts (11pm-7am): 15-25% additional pay
Weekend shifts: 5-15% premium, especially Sundays
Working less desirable shifts can significantly increase your total compensation.
Geographic Location
Cost of living dramatically affects CNA salaries. High-cost states like California, Alaska, and Washington offer 50-80% higher wages than lower-cost states. Urban areas typically pay 10-20% more than rural locations. Research local market rates before accepting positions.
Certifications & Specializations
Additional credentials increase earning potential:
Medication Aide: +$1-3/hour
Restorative Care Specialist: +$2-4/hour
Phlebotomy Certification: +$1-2/hour
Specialized skills make you more valuable to employers.
Experience Level
Salary progression with experience:
0-1 year: Entry-level pay
1-3 years: 5-10% increase
3-5 years: 10-20% increase
5+ years: 20-30% increase
Annual raises typically range from 2-5% based on performance and facility policies.
Beyond Base Salary: Total Compensation
When evaluating CNA positions, consider the complete benefits package, which can add significant value beyond hourly wages:
- Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage (value: $3,000-$8,000 annually)
- Paid Time Off: Vacation days, sick leave, and holidays (value: $1,500-$3,000 annually)
- Retirement Benefits: 401(k) plans with employer matching (value: 3-6% of salary)
- Continuing Education: Tuition reimbursement and training opportunities (value: $500-$5,000 annually)
- Sign-On Bonuses: One-time payments for accepting positions (range: $500-$3,000)
- Referral Bonuses: Compensation for referring new hires (range: $250-$1,000)
Calculate total compensation by adding your annual salary plus the monetary value of all benefits to understand your true earnings.
Career Advancement & Future Earning Potential
CNA certification serves as a foundation for higher-paying healthcare careers:
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): Median salary ~$54,000 annually • Requires 12-18 month program
- Registered Nurse (RN): Median salary ~$81,000 annually • Requires Associate (2 years) or Bachelor's degree (4 years)
- Advanced Practice Registered Nurse: Median salary ~$123,000+ annually • Requires Master's degree
- Healthcare Administration: Salaries vary widely based on role and facility size
Many healthcare employers offer tuition assistance programs for CNAs pursuing nursing degrees, making career advancement financially accessible. Your CNA experience provides invaluable practical knowledge that enhances your nursing education and makes you a stronger candidate for nursing programs.
Start Earning as a CNA
Find accredited CNA programs in your area and begin your path to a stable, rewarding healthcare career with excellent earning potential.
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