CNA Salaries per State: Where Do CNAs Make the Most?

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Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) play a vital role in the healthcare system, providing essential care to patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. CNAs are responsible for a wide range of tasks, including bathing and dressing patients, helping them to eat and drink, and monitoring their vital signs. They also provide emotional support and companionship to patients and their families.

CNA salaries vary depending on a number of factors, including location, experience, and setting. However, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for CNAs in 2022 was $30,290.

Top 5 States for CNA Salaries

The following are the top 5 states for CNA salaries in 2023, according to ZipRecruiter:

  1. Washington: $47,620
  2. New York: $44,760
  3. California: $43,722
  4. Massachusetts: $40,413
  5. Hawaii: $40,090

Top 5 Cities for CNA Salaries

RankCityStateAverage Annual Salary
1San FranciscoCA$65,214
2SeattleWA$62,345
3OaklandCA$61,987
4New York CityNY$61,763
5BostonMA$61,621

Other States with High CNA Salaries

Other states with high CNA salaries include:

  • Oregon: $46,213
  • Colorado: $44,965
  • Connecticut: $44,915
  • New Jersey: $44,528
  • Maryland: $43,989

A list of average CNA salaries per each state

StateAverage Annual Salary
Alabama$33,140
Alaska$59,614
Arizona$42,825
Arkansas$32,228
California$49,566
Colorado$48,769
Connecticut$44,779
Delaware$46,281
Florida$38,935
Georgia$31,885
Hawaii$51,917
Idaho$44,581
Illinois$44,487
Indiana$41,019
Iowa$47,847
Kansas$39,584
Kentucky$40,713
Louisiana$31,724
Maine$53,235
Maryland$40,695
Massachusetts$47,518
Michigan$43,257
Minnesota$48,897
Mississippi$31,209
Missouri$41,200
Montana$45,943
Nebraska$44,521
Nevada$45,669
New Hampshire$47,746
New Jersey$44,528
New Mexico$37,367
New York$44,760
North Carolina$36,250
North Dakota$47,254
Ohio$40,868
Oklahoma$38,685
Oregon$46,213
Pennsylvania$42,176
Rhode Island$47,331
South Carolina$36,143
South Dakota$45,287
Tennessee$36,341
Texas$37,814
Utah$44,642
Vermont$50,146
Virginia$40,633
Washington$47,620
West Virginia$38,513
Wisconsin$44,119
Wyoming$48,725

Factors that Affect CNA Salaries

In addition to location, other factors that can affect CNA salaries include:

  • Experience: CNAs with more experience typically earn higher salaries.
  • Setting: CNAs who work in hospitals or other high-acuity settings often earn more than those who work in nursing homes or assisted living facilities.
  • Certifications and specializations: Passing the CNA exam is required in order to become a certified nursing assistant and be eligible for employment. CNAs with additional certifications or specializations, such as geriatrics or wound care, may also earn higher salaries.

How to Increase Your CNA Salary

If you are a CNA and you are looking to increase your salary, there are a few things you can do:

  • Gain experience: The more experience you have, the more valuable you will be to potential employers.
  • Get additional certifications or specializations: This can make you more competitive in the job market and increase your earning potential.
  • Negotiate your salary: When you are offered a new job, be sure to negotiate your salary. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you are worth.

FAQ

What is the average CNA salary? 

$33,250 per year

Which states have the highest CNA salaries? 

Washington, California, New York, Massachusetts, and Hawaii

Which cities have the highest CNA salaries? 

San Francisco, Seattle, Oakland, New York City, and Boston

How can I increase my CNA salary? 

Gain experience, get additional certifications, and negotiate your salary.

Is it worth becoming a CNA? 

Yes, CNAs play a vital role in the healthcare system and are in high demand.