The average CNA salary isn’t as high as some of the other jobs in the health care industry. Additionally, wages can vary significantly based on the geographic location of the employer, size of the employer, the type of facility, the shift that was worked, and the demand for CNAs in that area.
According to Payscale.com, the average CNA salary is $22,955. However, the range of salaries is wide; the majority of nursing assistants make between $18,000 and $31,000 per year. If broken down hourly, this amounts to $8.65-$14.90 per hour. Many CNAs use this job as a temporary bridge between their schooling and becoming a registered nurse. Once you’re a registered nurse, you can expect a significant pay increase to around $56,000 per year.
Expected Salary by Region
Based on the chart below, the expected hourly wage seems to match pretty well with the cost of living for that area. The east and west coasts, where cost of living tends to be highest, also offer the largest salaries. However, the low cost of living in places like Idaho and Montana keep wages down in those areas.
Larger cities will tend to offer a higher pay. Although the great lakes region averages $11.43 per hour, the average CNA in Chicago makes $12.00. Likewise, due to minimum wage laws changing, all CNA’s in the state of Washington will make at least $15.00 an hour.
By Facility
Although the difference isn’t always significant, hospitals have a reputation of paying more than long term assisted living facilities. For instance, a place like kindred hospital offers an average of $13.00 per hour while Emeritus assisted living averages $9.73 per hour.
Years of Experience
As with any job, the more experience you can bring, the higher your salary will generally be. Below is a chart of expected wages based on years of experience.
Many CNA’s use their certification as a stepping stone into different fields of nursing, so many don’t stay over 20 years in the same position. However, those with significant experience can make 25% more than those just starting out.
Benefits and Bonuses
Not all hours are created equal. Some facilities pay a few extra dollars per hour for overnight shifts. Some give time and a half on holidays. Some CNAs will get a bonus (sometimes up to $50) for taking an extra shift when one is needed. Of course, not all employers offer these benefits, but they do exist. Just because a job is offering $9.00 an hour, doesn’t mean that there won’t be the opportunity to make more.
Although the work can be stressful, and a lot is expected out of CNAs, the typical salary falls in line with what most entry level jobs offer when a full bachelor’s degree isn’t required. If you ask a CNA, they generally don’t work in this career because of the expectation of a fabulous pay day. They become a CNA for the personal satisfaction of helping others.