How much does a Certified Nursing Assistant make?
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) play a vital role in healthcare. They provide essential care to patients in various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and home care. The average yearly salary for CNAs is around $40,246. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of facility where they work.
The salary range for CNAs can differ significantly. The lowest 10% earn about $25,150 per year. The highest 10% earn more than $59,150 annually. Most CNAs fall somewhere in the middle of this range. Factors like additional certifications, night shifts, and overtime can also boost earnings. This career offers a stable income and opportunities for growth and advancement.
What are the highest paying cities for a Certified Nursing Assistant?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $66,183
In San Jose, healthcare facilities offer many opportunities for those in the nursing field. With prominent companies like Kaiser Permanente and Stanford Health Care, job seekers can find stable and rewarding positions. The city's growing population increases the demand for skilled nursing assistants.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $61,882
San Francisco provides a vibrant environment for nursing assistants. The city's top hospitals, including UCSF Health and Zuckerberg San Francisco General, offer excellent career growth. The diverse patient population enriches the experience for those in the field.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $59,750
Santa Rosa is known for its strong healthcare sector. Sutter Health and Adventist Health are key employers in the area. Working here offers a mix of urban and rural settings, providing a unique experience for nursing assistants.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $58,579
Vallejo has a supportive community for healthcare workers. Hospitals like Kaiser Permanente and NorthBay Healthcare provide stable job opportunities. The city's focus on health and wellness creates a positive work environment.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $56,044
Salinas offers a close-knit community with many healthcare options. Companies like Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System provide excellent career paths. The city's agricultural roots mean a strong demand for healthcare services.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $52,866
Seattle is a hub for healthcare innovation. Major hospitals like Seattle Children's and Virginia Mason offer cutting-edge opportunities. The city's progressive environment supports professional growth and development.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $51,076
Riverside provides a balanced lifestyle with many job opportunities. Loma Linda University Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente are leading employers. The city's growing population increases the need for skilled nursing assistants.
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Visalia, CA
Average Salary: $50,993
Visalia offers a welcoming environment for healthcare professionals. Kaweah Delta Health Care District and Adventist Health are key employers. The city's community focus creates a supportive work atmosphere.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $49,643
Washington, DC, is a center for healthcare excellence. Hospitals like MedStar Health and George Washington University Hospital offer top-tier positions. The city's political and healthcare nexus provides unique career opportunities.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $49,609
San Diego offers a dynamic healthcare scene. Scripps Health and UC San Diego Health are prominent employers. The city's mild climate and strong economy make it an attractive place for nursing assistants.
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What are the best companies a Certified Nursing Assistant can work for?

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John Muir Health
Average Salary: $78,853
John Muir Health offers rewarding Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) jobs with competitive pay. They operate in Walnut Creek, Concord, and Antioch, California. CNAs work in various departments, including surgery, maternity, and pediatrics.
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Stanford Health Care
Average Salary: $78,462
Stanford Health Care provides excellent CNA positions with a strong focus on patient care. They are located in Stanford, California. CNAs here assist in a range of services, from emergency care to specialized treatments.
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Montage Health
Average Salary: $74,445
Montage Health offers CNA jobs with a focus on quality care. They operate in Monterey, California. CNAs here support patients in areas like surgery, maternity, and pediatrics.
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Niagara County Community College
Average Salary: $69,312
Niagara County Community College provides CNA jobs with a focus on education and patient care. They are located in Sanborn, New York. CNAs here assist in both clinical and educational settings.
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University Of Washington
Average Salary: $67,044
The University Of Washington offers CNA jobs with a strong emphasis on research and patient care. They are located in Seattle, Washington. CNAs here support patients in various departments, including surgery and pediatrics.
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MAS Medical Staffing
Average Salary: $65,474
MAS Medical Staffing provides CNA jobs with a focus on flexibility and patient care. They operate nationwide. CNAs here assist in various healthcare settings, from hospitals to clinics.
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Hospital for Special Surgery
Average Salary: $63,543
The Hospital for Special Surgery offers CNA jobs with a focus on orthopedic care. They are located in New York City, New York. CNAs here support patients in areas like surgery and rehabilitation.
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Children's National Hospital
Average Salary: $62,868
Children's National Hospital provides CNA jobs with a focus on pediatric care. They are located in Washington, D.C. CNAs here assist in various pediatric departments, including surgery and oncology.
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CareerStaff Unlimited
Average Salary: $62,630
CareerStaff Unlimited offers CNA jobs with a focus on flexibility and patient care. They operate nationwide. CNAs here assist in various healthcare settings, from hospitals to clinics.
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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $61,518
Sutter Health provides CNA jobs with a focus on quality care. They operate in Northern California. CNAs here support patients in areas like surgery, maternity, and pediatrics.
How to earn more as a Certified Nursing Assistant?
A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) plays a vital role in healthcare. They provide essential care to patients. Increasing earnings as a CNA involves several key strategies. These strategies can help CNAs advance their careers and improve their financial stability.
First, gaining experience is crucial. Hospitals and care facilities often value seasoned CNAs. Experienced CNAs know the routines and can handle emergencies better. Second, obtaining additional certifications can boost earnings. Certifications in areas like geriatric care or hospice care can open new job opportunities. Third, pursuing further education can lead to higher-paying roles. Many CNAs choose to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Registered Nurses (RNs). Fourth, seeking positions in high-demand areas can increase pay. Urban areas or specialized care facilities often offer higher wages. Lastly, networking with other healthcare professionals can lead to job referrals and better-paying positions. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can help with this.
By focusing on these factors, CNAs can enhance their skills and increase their earning potential. Each step takes them closer to a more rewarding career.
- Gain experience in various healthcare settings.
- Obtain additional certifications in specialized care areas.
- Pursue further education to become an LPN or RN.
- Seek positions in high-demand areas or specialized facilities.
- Network with other healthcare professionals to find job opportunities.



