How much does a Certified Nursing Assistant make?
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) play a vital role in healthcare. They help patients with daily activities and provide essential care. The average yearly salary for CNAs is around $39,686. This salary can vary based on experience and location.
The salary for CNAs can range widely. The lowest 10% earn about $25,000 per year. The highest 10% earn over $58,000 annually. Most CNAs fall somewhere in between these numbers. Factors like the type of facility and geographic area can affect earnings. For example, CNAs in urban areas often earn more than those in rural areas. Experience also plays a big role. More experienced CNAs tend to earn higher salaries.
What are the highest paying cities for a Certified Nursing Assistant?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $64,423
In San Jose, healthcare facilities offer many opportunities for those in patient care. Hospitals like Kaiser Permanente and Stanford Health Care provide excellent environments for professional growth. The city's diverse population makes for a rich and rewarding experience.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $61,161
San Francisco's healthcare sector is bustling with activity. Working in renowned institutions such as UCSF Health and Zuckerberg San Francisco General allows for hands-on experience with cutting-edge medical practices. The city's vibrant culture enhances the work experience.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $57,462
Vallejo offers a supportive community for healthcare workers. Local hospitals like Kaiser Permanente and NorthBay Healthcare provide excellent training and career advancement opportunities. The city's smaller size means close-knit teams and personal connections with patients.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $56,937
Santa Rosa's healthcare facilities, including Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital, offer a welcoming environment for caregivers. The city's focus on community health makes for a fulfilling work experience. Opportunities for professional development are plentiful.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $53,775
Salinas provides a nurturing setting for those in patient care. Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System and Natividad Medical Center offer robust support for career growth. The city's strong community ties enhance the work experience.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $51,923
Seattle's healthcare industry is vibrant and innovative. Working at institutions like Swedish Medical Center and Virginia Mason offers exposure to advanced medical technologies. The city's progressive environment fosters professional development.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $50,735
Riverside's healthcare sector is growing, with hospitals like Riverside University Health System and Loma Linda University Medical Center providing excellent opportunities. The city's family-friendly atmosphere makes for a balanced work-life experience.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $49,065
Sacramento offers a dynamic healthcare environment with institutions like UC Davis Health and Kaiser Permanente. The city's diverse patient population provides a rich learning experience. Opportunities for career advancement are abundant.
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Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $48,947
Santa Maria's healthcare facilities, including Marian Regional Medical Center, offer a supportive and community-focused environment. The city's small-town feel fosters strong relationships with patients and colleagues. Professional growth opportunities are available.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $48,783
Washington, DC, offers a unique healthcare landscape with institutions like MedStar Washington Hospital Center and Children's National Medical Center. The city's political and cultural environment adds an extra layer of interest to the work. Opportunities for professional development are extensive.
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What are the best companies a Certified Nursing Assistant can work for?

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Stanford Medicine Children's Health
Average Salary: $106,204
Stanford Medicine Children's Health offers rewarding Certified Nursing Assistant jobs. They operate in California, providing a nurturing environment for patients. Their focus on pediatric care ensures a unique and supportive work experience.
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Caldera Care
Average Salary: $86,381
Caldera Care provides Certified Nursing Assistant positions with competitive pay. They serve areas in California, emphasizing quality care. Their commitment to patient well-being creates a fulfilling work environment.
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Stanford Health Care
Average Salary: $80,723
Stanford Health Care offers Certified Nursing Assistant jobs with a strong focus on patient care. They operate in California, providing a prestigious work environment. Their dedication to excellence makes it a great place to work.
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John Muir Health
Average Salary: $77,113
John Muir Health provides Certified Nursing Assistant positions with a good salary. They serve the Bay Area in California. Their emphasis on patient care creates a supportive and rewarding work environment.
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Niagara County Community College
Average Salary: $68,492
Niagara County Community College offers Certified Nursing Assistant jobs with a solid salary. They operate in New York, providing a community-focused environment. Their dedication to education and care makes it a valuable place to work.
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University Of Washington
Average Salary: $65,586
The University Of Washington offers Certified Nursing Assistant positions with a competitive salary. They operate in Washington, providing a research-focused environment. Their commitment to healthcare excellence creates a rewarding work experience.
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Insight Global
Average Salary: $65,573
Insight Global provides Certified Nursing Assistant jobs with a solid salary. They operate nationwide, offering a dynamic work environment. Their focus on professional growth makes it a great place to advance your career.
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MAS Medical Staffing
Average Salary: $64,859
MAS Medical Staffing offers Certified Nursing Assistant positions with a good salary. They operate nationwide, providing a diverse work environment. Their commitment to staffing excellence creates a rewarding career opportunity.
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University of California - San Francisco
Average Salary: $64,203
The University of California - San Francisco offers Certified Nursing Assistant jobs with a competitive salary. They operate in California, providing a prestigious work environment. Their dedication to healthcare innovation makes it a valuable place to work.
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CareerStaff Unlimited
Average Salary: $62,961
CareerStaff Unlimited provides Certified Nursing Assistant positions with a solid salary. They operate nationwide, offering a flexible work environment. Their focus on career development makes it a great place to grow professionally.
How to earn more as a Certified Nursing Assistant?
A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) can find several ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on specific areas, CNAs can enhance their skills and marketability. This can lead to higher pay and better job opportunities. One key factor is gaining experience in specialized areas of care. For example, working in a critical care unit or with pediatric patients can command higher wages. Another factor is obtaining additional certifications. Certifications in areas like geriatric care, hospice care, or IV therapy can make a CNA more attractive to employers. Networking with other healthcare professionals can also open doors to higher-paying positions.
Continuing education is another important factor. CNAs who take courses to advance their skills can often earn more. For instance, learning about wound care or advanced patient assessment can lead to higher-paying jobs. Seeking out positions in high-demand areas can also increase earnings. Urban areas or regions with a shortage of healthcare workers often offer higher wages. Lastly, negotiating salary and benefits effectively can make a significant difference. Being prepared to discuss your value and the benefits you bring to the employer can lead to a better offer.
Here are some factors to consider for increasing earnings as a CNA:
- Gain experience in specialized care areas.
- Obtain additional certifications.
- Network with other healthcare professionals.
- Pursue continuing education and advanced skills.
- Seek positions in high-demand areas.