Intro
Discover the average CNA salary rates in the US. Learn about hourly and annual pay scales, factors affecting CNA pay, and salary variations by state and employer. Get the latest data on certified nursing assistant compensation, including median salary ranges, highest paying cities, and growth opportunities in the healthcare industry.
As the demand for healthcare services continues to rise, the role of Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) has become increasingly important. CNAs play a vital part in the healthcare system, providing essential care and support to patients in various settings. If you're considering a career as a CNA or are already working in this field, you're likely curious about the average CNA salary. In this article, we'll delve into the average hourly and annual pay rates for CNAs, as well as the factors that influence their salaries.

CNAs are in high demand, and their salaries reflect this demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for CNAs in the United States was $30,830 in May 2020. However, salaries can vary significantly depending on factors such as location, employer, level of experience, and industry.
Factors Affecting CNA Salaries
Several factors contribute to the variation in CNA salaries. Some of the most significant factors include:
- Location: CNAs working in urban areas tend to earn higher salaries than those working in rural areas. Cities with a high cost of living, such as New York or San Francisco, often offer higher salaries to compensate for the increased cost of living.
- Employer: CNAs working in hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities may earn different salaries. Hospitals tend to pay more than nursing homes, while assisted living facilities may offer lower salaries.
- Level of experience: More experienced CNAs can earn higher salaries. Those with specialized certifications or training may also command higher pay rates.
- Industry: CNAs working in specialized industries, such as pediatrics or gerontology, may earn higher salaries than those working in general healthcare settings.
Industry-Specific CNA Salaries
CNA salaries can vary significantly depending on the industry. Here are some average salary ranges for CNAs working in different industries:
- Hospitals: $32,000 - $45,000 per year
- Nursing homes: $28,000 - $38,000 per year
- Assisted living facilities: $25,000 - $35,000 per year
- Home healthcare: $30,000 - $40,000 per year
- Rehabilitation centers: $32,000 - $45,000 per year
Average Hourly CNA Salaries
While annual salaries provide a good overview of CNA pay rates, hourly salaries can give a better understanding of the actual take-home pay. Here are some average hourly CNA salaries in the United States:
- National average: $14.77 per hour
- Top-paying states: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour (e.g., California, New York, Massachusetts)
- Lowest-paying states: $10.00 - $12.00 per hour (e.g., Mississippi, West Virginia, Arkansas)

State-by-State CNA Salaries
CNA salaries can vary significantly depending on the state. Here are some average annual CNA salaries for each state:
- California: $38,000 - $50,000 per year
- New York: $35,000 - $48,000 per year
- Texas: $28,000 - $38,000 per year
- Florida: $26,000 - $36,000 per year
- Illinois: $30,000 - $42,000 per year
Conclusion
In conclusion, CNA salaries can vary significantly depending on factors such as location, employer, level of experience, and industry. While the national average annual salary for CNAs is around $30,000, salaries can range from $25,000 to over $50,000 per year. By understanding the factors that influence CNA salaries, you can make informed decisions about your career and negotiate a fair salary.

We hope this article has provided valuable insights into CNA salaries. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.
What is the average CNA salary in the United States?
+The average CNA salary in the United States is around $30,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What factors affect CNA salaries?
+CNA salaries are influenced by factors such as location, employer, level of experience, and industry.
What is the highest-paying state for CNAs?
+California is one of the highest-paying states for CNAs, with average annual salaries ranging from $38,000 to $50,000.