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Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in the United States

How will Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) impact your salary in the United States?


The average salary for someone with a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in the United States is between $25,540 and $35,986 as of October 01, 2026. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the actual position requiring a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) that you are looking for. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target. View the Cost of Living in Major Cities

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$25,540
$35,986
$30,763
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Why get a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)?

Jobs for nursing assistants are in high demand in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospitals and home health agencies. A Certified Nursing Assistant is trained in basic nursing principles and assist in the daily care of patients as part of a healthcare team. Obtaining a CNA certification can be the first step and an ideal entry position towards a career in the healthcare industry.

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About Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Does having a CNA certification make a difference in pay and career progression?

Since most employers require nursing assistants to be certified, the certification is essential. Some CNA's may decide to complete additional training and eventually increase their earnings by becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

Who grants the CNA certification?

Each state will grant the certification according to the requirements of that state. Generally, if an individual is certified in one state, they can obtain a reciprocal certification in other states.

What are the requirements for a CNA Certification?

Typically a high school diploma or GED and completion of a state-approved training program that includes classroom and supervised hands-on practice. There are programs offered at community colleges, the Red Cross, and some hospitals or nursing homes. The classroom part of a CNA training program may be between 4-8 weeks and is the first step. Taking and passing the state approved competency exam (usually the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation NACE) is the second step. The final step requires fingerprinting, a criminal background check, and registering with the state authority.

What preparation is recommended for the CNA exam?

Take advantage of the study guides and practice tests that are available. Many of these resources are free and can be accessed online. The test has two parts, the written questions (60-70 multiple choice questions) and the skills test which requires specific skills to be performed in front of an evaluator.

How much does it cost to obtain CNA certification?

Costs may vary from state to state. Generally, the exam cost is between $80 and $110. The training courses at a community college or the Red Cross could cost between 850- $1250. Some hospitals and nursing homes offer free training or reimbursement for training as an incentive for hiring in locations where there is a shortage of nursing assistants.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Jobs

Job Openings for Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
CNA Certified Nursing Assistant Apply

Masonicare | ROCKY HILL , CT

CNA Certified Nursing Assistant Masonicare at Greenridge Place - Rocky Hill, CT Day Shift - 8hrs/wk "We are committed to supporting our employees with comp... more

4 days ago

CNA Certified Nursing Assistant Apply

MASONICARE | ROCKY HILL , CT

CNA Certified Nursing Assistant Masonicare at Greenridge Place - Rocky Hill, CT Per Diem “We are committed to supporting our employees with competitive pay... more

4 days ago

CNA Certified Nursing Assistant Apply

Masonicare | ROCKY HILL , CT

CNA Certified Nursing Assistant Masonicare at Greenridge Place - Rocky Hill, CT Evening Shift - 24 hours per week “We are committed to supporting our emplo... more

4 days ago

CNA Certified Nursing Assistant Apply

MASONICARE | ROCKY HILL , CT

CNA Certified Nursing Assistant Masonicare at Greenridge Place - Rocky Hill, CT Day & Evening Shift - 24 hours per week We are committed to supporting our ... more

4 days ago

CNA Certified Nursing Assistant Apply

Masonicare | ROCKY HILL , CT

CNA Certified Nursing Assistant Masonicare at Greenridge Place - Rocky Hill, CT Day Shift - 8hrs/wk “We are committed to supporting our employees with comp... more

4 days ago

CNA Certified Nursing Assistant Apply

Masonicare | ROCKY HILL , CT

CNA Certified Nursing Assistant Masonicare at Greenridge Place - Rocky Hill, CT Evening Shift - 24 hours per week "We are committed to supporting our emplo... more

7 days ago

CNA Certified Nursing Assistant Apply

MASONICARE | WALLINGFORD , CT

CNA Certified Nursing Assistant (DAY SHIFT) Masonicare Health Center - Wallingford, CT Day Shift / 24hrs/wk / EOW We are committed to supporting our employ... more

2 days ago

CNA Certified Nursing Assistant Apply

MASONICARE | WALLINGFORD , CT

CNA Certified Nursing Assistant (DAY SHIFT) Masonicare Health Center - Wallingford, CT Day Shift / 24hrs/wk / EOW We are committed to supporting our employ... more

2 days ago

CNA Certified Nursing Assistant Apply

MASONICARE | WALLINGFORD , CT

CNA Certified Nursing Assistant (NIGHT SHIFT) Masonicare Health Center - Wallingford, CT Night Shift / 8 hours/EOW We are committed to supporting our emplo... more

4 days ago