Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in the United States
Based on 1.4M+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$41,812
$20.10/hr
Salary Range
$35K – $50K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
1.4M
workers nationwide
The median Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in the United States is $41,812 per year, which translates to about $20 per hour. This figure provides a general benchmark for compensation within this vital healthcare support role across the country, reflecting a significant number of employed professionals.
Several factors can influence how much a Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in the United States might be. These include geographic location, with some states offering higher pay, as well as the specific healthcare setting, years of experience, and any additional certifications or specialized skills a CNA may possess.
Salary Distribution — Nursing Assistant (CNA)
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $35,028 |
| 25th percentile | $38,555 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $41,812 |
| 75th percentile | $46,083 |
| 90th percentile | $50,399 |
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Nursing Assistant (CNA)
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Oregon | $49,830 | +19.2% | 15K |
| 2 | Washington | $49,180 | +17.6% | 30K |
| 3 | New York | $48,590 | +16.2% | 88K |
| 4 | New Hampshire | $47,870 | +14.5% | 8K |
| 5 | District of Columbia | $47,700 | +14.1% | 3K |
| 6 | California | $47,630 | +13.9% | 110K |
| 7 | Colorado | $47,380 | +13.3% | 22K |
| 8 | Vermont | $47,130 | +12.7% | 3K |
| 9 | Maine | $47,070 | +12.6% | 9K |
| 10 | New Jersey | $46,830 | +12.0% | 32K |
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary by Industry
How much Nursing Assistant (CNA)s earn across industries nationwide — Finance and Insurance pays the most ($60,710 median). Ranked by median annual salary (2025 BLS OEWS data).
| # | Industry | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Finance and Insurance | $60,710 | +45.2% | 40 |
| 2 | Administrative and Support Services | $47,810 | +14.3% | 49K |
| 3 | Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $47,050 | +12.5% | 47K |
| 4 | Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $46,920 | +12.2% | 430 |
| 5 | Wholesale Trade | $46,540 | +11.3% | — |
| 6 | Other Services (except Public Administration) | $42,900 | +2.6% | 1K |
| 7 | Management of Companies and Enterprises | $42,800 | +2.4% | 2K |
| 8 | Educational Services | $42,630 | +2.0% | 13K |
| 9 | Health Care and Social Assistance | $41,290 | -1.2% | 1.3M |
| 10 | Retail Trade | $34,190 | -18.2% | 120 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures.
Historical Salary Trend — Nursing Assistant (CNA)
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $41,812 |
| 2026 (projected) | $43,066 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $38,555 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $41,812 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $46,083 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $50,399 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in the US?
- The median Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in the United States is $41,812 per year. This means that half of all CNAs earn more than this amount, and half earn less. The typical salary range falls between $35,028 and $50,399 annually.
How much do CNAs make per hour on average?
- On average, CNAs earn approximately $20 per hour. This hourly rate aligns with the yearly median salary of $41,812. The salary range can also be seen hourly, from about $17 to $24.
Which state pays CNAs the most?
- Oregon is currently the top-paying state for Nursing Assistants, with an average salary of $49,830 annually. This is significantly higher than the national median, highlighting potential regional pay disparities for CNAs.
How many Nursing Assistants are employed in the United States?
- There are a substantial 1,448,920 Nursing Assistants employed across the United States. This large workforce supports the vast healthcare system, with a median annual income of $41,812.