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Certified Nursing Assistant salary
Certified nursing assistants help patients with daily activities and basic care in hospitals and nursing homes.
Median annual
$39,000
Median hourly
$19
Top 10% earn
$50,000+
Salary range
Bottom 10%$31,000
Median$39,000
Top 10%$50,000
Certified Nursing Assistant salary by experience level
How pay typically progresses from a first job to a senior role, modelled from the reported national pay distribution.
| Experience | Years | Annual | Hourly | vs median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry level | 0–2 years | $32,300 | $16 | -17% |
| Early career | 2–5 years | $36,100 | $17 | -7% |
| Mid career | 5–10 years | $40,700 | $20 | +4% |
| Senior / experienced | 10+ years | $47,100 | $23 | +21% |
- Entry level: Starting pay for newly qualified certified nursing assistants, before specialisation or overtime.
- Early career: Pay rises quickly once you can work independently and take on harder assignments.
- Mid career: Most workers sit around this level, often with a specialism or a first supervisory role.
- Senior / experienced: Lead, senior or management roles, plus the highest-paying employers and locations.
Career details
Education
State-approved CNA training program and competency exam.
Job outlook
4% growth through 2033 — driven by an aging population.
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