How much does a Certified Nursing Assistant make?
A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) plays a vital role in the healthcare system. They help patients with daily activities and basic care. The average yearly salary for a CNA is around $41,499. This salary can vary based on many factors.
The salary range for CNAs can go from about $26,000 to $60,000. Factors that influence this include experience, location, and the type of healthcare facility. CNAs who work in big cities or specialized hospitals often earn more. Experienced CNAs with certifications can also see higher pay. CNAs who gain additional skills may find even better opportunities. This role not only offers a stable income but also the chance to grow in a rewarding career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Certified Nursing Assistant?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $66,891
In San Jose, nursing assistants thrive in a dynamic healthcare environment. The city hosts prominent healthcare facilities, providing ample opportunities for professional growth. Caregivers can expect competitive salaries and a supportive work culture.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $64,353
San Francisco offers a vibrant job market for nursing assistants. Working in the city’s top hospitals and clinics, professionals gain valuable experience. The cost of living is high, but so are the salaries and job benefits.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $61,937
Vallejo provides a close-knit community feel for nursing assistants. The city has several healthcare providers that value skilled caregivers. Opportunities for advancement are available, making it an attractive place to work.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $61,442
Santa Rosa offers a balanced lifestyle for nursing assistants. The city’s healthcare facilities focus on providing quality care. Assistants enjoy a supportive work environment and a chance to make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $58,590
Salinas provides a welcoming atmosphere for nursing assistants. The city's healthcare providers offer stable employment. Assistants can expect a friendly community and a chance to grow professionally.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $55,940
Seattle is a bustling hub for nursing assistants. The city’s healthcare sector is robust, with many opportunities for professional development. Caregivers benefit from competitive pay and a diverse patient population.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $54,663
Riverside offers a growing job market for nursing assistants. The city’s healthcare facilities are expanding, providing new opportunities. Assistants can expect a supportive community and a chance to build a lasting career.
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Visalia, CA
Average Salary: $53,823
Visalia provides a friendly environment for nursing assistants. The city’s healthcare providers value skilled caregivers. Assistants enjoy a close-knit community and a chance to make a real difference in patients’ lives.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $53,612
Washington, DC, offers a unique experience for nursing assistants. Working in the nation’s capital, professionals enjoy a mix of federal and private healthcare facilities. The job market is competitive, with many opportunities for career growth.
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Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $52,909
Santa Maria provides a welcoming atmosphere for nursing assistants. The city’s healthcare providers are expanding, offering new opportunities. Assistants can expect a supportive community and a chance to grow professionally.
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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: $83,210
John Muir Health offers Certified Nursing Assistant jobs across its hospitals and outpatient care centers in Walnut Creek, Concord, and Pleasant Hill, CA. This company emphasizes teamwork and provides robust training programs for its staff.
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Stanford Health Care
Average Salary: $77,424
Stanford Health Care is a leading healthcare provider offering CNA positions at its Stanford Hospital in Stanford and various other locations in the Bay Area, CA. The company is known for its innovative research and patient-focused care.
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Montage Health
Average Salary: $73,478
Montage Health provides CNA opportunities in its facilities in Monterey, CA. The company prides itself on a supportive work environment and continuous professional development for its employees.
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University Of Washington
Average Salary: $69,556
The University Of Washington offers CNA jobs at its medical center and affiliated clinics in Seattle, WA. It is a top-tier academic institution, providing a collaborative and educational atmosphere.
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Valley Medical Center
Average Salary: $65,733
Valley Medical Center provides CNA positions across its hospitals and clinics in the Seattle area, WA. This organization values its staff and offers a wide range of career advancement opportunities.
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Hospital for Special Surgery
Average Salary: $65,596
The Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City offers CNA jobs with a focus on orthopedics and sports medicine. The company is renowned for its specialized care and cutting-edge research.
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MAS Medical Staffing
Average Salary: $65,223
MAS Medical Staffing provides CNA positions in various hospitals and healthcare facilities across the country. It offers flexibility and competitive pay with a range of assignments to choose from.
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Children's National Hospital
Average Salary: $63,217
Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C., offers CNA jobs dedicated to pediatric care. The institution is committed to providing exceptional care for children and their families.
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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $63,183
Sutter Health offers CNA positions in its network of hospitals and outpatient care centers across Northern California. The company is known for its strong community ties and supportive work environment.
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Overlake Medical Center and Clinics
Average Salary: $61,001
Overlake Medical Center and Clinics in Bellevue, WA, offer CNA jobs with a focus on patient-centered care. The company is dedicated to providing high-quality healthcare services and fostering a positive work environment.
How to earn more as a Certified Nursing Assistant?
Aspiring to earn more as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) involves a combination of gaining experience, improving skills, and considering additional certifications. By focusing on these areas, a CNA can increase their earning potential in a fulfilling career.
One effective way to earn more is to gain experience in various settings. Working in different healthcare environments, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and home health care, provides a CNA with diverse skills and experiences. Employers often value this versatility and may offer higher wages. Another way to increase earnings is to obtain additional certifications. Specializations such as geriatric care, pediatric care, or hospice care can make a CNA more valuable to employers. These certifications can lead to higher-paying job opportunities and roles with greater responsibilities.
To earn more, consider these factors:
- Gain experience in different healthcare settings
- Obtain additional certifications in specialized areas
- Pursue advanced training and education
- Network with other professionals in the field
- Consider moving to an area with higher demand for CNAs



