Which CNA Jobs Pay the Most?

What is a CNA?

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), sometimes called a nursing aide, is a healthcare professional who assists patients with various healthcare needs, under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). A CNA’s role typically involves providing basic care to patients and assisting them with activities of daily living. They perform duties such as monitoring health status, feeding, bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and aiding patient mobility. Some CNAs may also assist with medication administration and other health-related tasks.

Where Can CNAs Find Employment?

CNAs can find employment in a variety of healthcare settings. These include:

1. Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities)

Nursing care facilities are among the largest employers of CNAs. They offer long-term care and short-term rehabilitation for elderly or disabled patients who can’t take care of themselves. On average, CNAs working in nursing care facilities earn an annual wage of approximately $35,160.

2. General Medical and Surgical Hospitals

Hospitals are another major employer of CNAs, where they provide care to patients recovering from surgeries or managing illnesses. CNAs in this setting earn a higher average wage of around $37,820 per year.

3. Continuing Care Retirement Communities and Assisted Living Facilities for the Elderly

In these facilities, CNAs assist residents who need help with daily activities but don’t require the intensive care provided in nursing homes. The average annual wage in this setting is roughly $34,130.

4. Home Health Care Services

In this setting, CNAs provide care to patients in their own homes, typically those who are elderly, chronically ill, or disabled. The average pay in this sector is approximately $32,160 per year.

5. Employment Services

Employment services, such as staffing agencies, also hire CNAs. These professionals may work in different healthcare settings, depending on the needs of the agency’s clients. This setting tends to offer higher wages, with an average annual salary of around $40,430.

6. Schools and Offices

Some of the highest paying industries for CNAs include junior colleges, dental offices, technical and trade schools, professional schools, and scientific research and development services. While not many CNAs are employed in these types of facilities, the salaries in these sectors are very high, ranging from $48,020 to $69,150 per year.

Highest Paid Skills for CNAs

As with many professions, possessing specialized skills can enhance a CNA’s earning potential. The more complex and high-demand the skill set, the higher the potential earnings. Here are some of the highest-paying skills for CNAs:

1. Telemetry

Telemetry is the use of monitoring devices to track a patient’s vital signs, such as heart rate and blood pressure. CNAs trained in telemetry often work in hospital settings, particularly in cardiac units, and are responsible for watching over these monitors and alerting nursing staff if there are any significant changes. CNAs with telemetry skills are typically paid more due to the specialized nature of this task.

2. Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Experience

CNAs who have experience working in the ICU are highly valued, as this setting requires advanced skills and the ability to handle high-stress situations. CNAs in the ICU work with critically ill patients, and their responsibilities can range from basic patient care to assisting with complex procedures. This level of expertise typically commands a higher wage.

3. Geriatrics

While all CNAs are trained to work with the elderly, specialized skills in geriatrics are in high demand due to the aging population. This can include understanding the unique health concerns and daily living challenges of the elderly, as well as how to provide emotional support to this population.

4. Rehabilitation

CNAs with experience in rehabilitation often assist patients recovering from surgery, strokes, or injuries. These professionals help patients perform exercises and use equipment that aids in their recovery. Skills in rehabilitation are sought after in many healthcare settings, including hospitals and nursing care facilities.

5. Palliative Care

CNAs with training in palliative care provide relief to patients suffering from serious, often chronic illnesses. They work closely with a team of healthcare providers to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for these patients and their families. Given the specialized and sensitive nature of this work, these CNAs often earn higher wages.

6. Bilingual Abilities

While not a direct healthcare skill, being bilingual is highly beneficial for CNAs. The ability to communicate effectively with patients who speak different languages can improve patient care and experience. This skill is especially valued in regions with diverse populations. It’s important to note that while these skills can enhance a CNA’s earning potential, they often require additional training and experience. However, acquiring these skills not only increases income but also opens the door to more opportunities in the healthcare field.

Benefits for CNAs

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) typically receive a range of benefits, although the specifics can vary greatly depending on the employer, geographical location, and the CNA’s level of experience. Here are some common benefits that CNAs might expect to receive:

1. Health Insurance

Most full-time CNAs are offered health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Some employers may cover the entire cost of the insurance, while others might require employees to pay a portion of the premiums.

2. Retirement Plans

Employers often provide retirement benefits, such as a 401(k) plan in the United States. Some employers may match a percentage of the CNA’s contributions to this plan, which can significantly increase their retirement savings.

3. Paid Time Off

CNAs generally receive paid time off (PTO), which includes vacation days, holidays, and sick leave. The amount of PTO can vary based on the CNA’s length of service with the employer.

4. Continuing Education and Training Opportunities

Many employers provide or reimburse for continuing education and training opportunities. This can include attending conferences, taking courses, or pursuing additional certifications. This not only helps CNAs stay updated with the latest in healthcare but also can lead to career advancement opportunities.

5. Life and Disability Insurance

Life insurance and disability insurance are often provided, which offer financial protection in case of a serious injury, illness, or death.

6. Employee Assistance Programs

Some employers offer employee assistance programs (EAPs) that provide support for personal issues, including mental health resources, financial counseling, and legal assistance.

7. Flexible Scheduling

While this may depend largely on the specific workplace, some employers offer flexible scheduling. This can be particularly beneficial for CNAs balancing family responsibilities or pursuing further education.

8. Tuition Reimbursement

Many healthcare facilities offer tuition reimbursement as part of their benefits package, especially those that encourage their CNAs to further their education in the nursing field. This could be towards a degree such as an associate or bachelor’s in nursing, or for more specialized training.

The specifics of tuition reimbursement programs can vary widely by employer. Some may cover the full cost of tuition, while others might only pay a percentage. There may also be conditions attached, such as requiring the CNA to work for the facility for a certain amount of time after completing their education, or only providing reimbursement for programs at specific schools.

Regardless of the specifics, tuition reimbursement can be a significant benefit for CNAs looking to advance their careers, as it can reduce or eliminate the financial burden of further education.

Best and Lowest Paying States for CNAs

Salaries for Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) can vary widely from state to state. Here’s a look at some of the states where CNAs earn the most, as well as where they earn the least, based on data collected in 2022.

Best Paying States

1. Alaska: As the highest-paying state, CNAs in Alaska earn an average annual wage of $44,420, which equates to an hourly wage of approximately $21.35.

2. District of Columbia: The District of Columbia, while not a state, also provides competitive wages for CNAs. The average annual wage here is $43,820, or roughly $21.07 per hour.

3. California: California is another high-paying state, with an average annual wage of $43,570, which comes out to an hourly wage of about $20.95.

4. New York: CNAs in New York earn an average annual wage of $43,450, translating to an hourly wage of roughly $20.89.

5. Oregon: Rounding out the top five, CNAs in Oregon earn an average annual wage of $42,960, or about $20.65 per hour.

Lowest Paying States

1. Louisiana: Louisiana is the lowest-paying state for CNAs, with an average annual wage of $24,040, equating to an hourly wage of about $11.56.

2. Mississippi: Mississippi is another low-paying state, with CNAs earning an average annual wage of $24,770, or about $11.91 per hour.

3. Oklahoma: In Oklahoma, CNAs earn an average annual wage of $25,690, translating to an hourly wage of roughly $12.35.

4. Alabama: Alabama is not far behind Oklahoma, with an average annual wage for CNAs of $26,010, or about $12.50 per hour.

5. West Virginia: West Virginia rounds out the bottom five, with an average annual wage for CNAs of $26,410, or roughly $12.70 per hour.

Remember, though the pay can vary significantly from state to state, other factors such as cost of living, job demand, and benefit packages should also be considered when deciding where to work as a CNA.

In Conclusion

While these averages provide a general idea of what a CNA can expect to earn, actual wages can vary depending on other factors such as years of experience, specific job duties, and level of education and certifications.

Overall, pursuing a career as a CNA can offer a rewarding, entry-level opportunity in the healthcare industry. If you’re looking to become a CNA and are worried about the exam, we’re here to help! Check out our free CNA practice tests, study guides, and flashcards.