Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Arkansas
Based on 17K+ workers in Arkansas
Median Annual Salary (AR)
$34,430
$16.55/hr
vs National Average
$41,812
-17.7% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$29K – $39K
17K employed in Arkansas
The median annual Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Arkansas is $34,430, which translates to approximately $17 per hour. This figure is 17.7% lower than the national average, with a typical salary range falling between $28,840 and $39,020 annually. Over 17,000 individuals are employed in this vital role across the state.
Several factors can influence a Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Arkansas. These include the specific healthcare facility, years of experience, additional certifications held, and the geographical location within Arkansas. For instance, CNAs working in larger metropolitan areas or specialized medical centers may command higher pay than those in rural settings or smaller clinics.
Salary Distribution — Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Arkansas
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $28,840 |
| 25th percentile | $30,200 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $34,430 |
| 75th percentile | $36,070 |
| 90th percentile | $39,020 |
Top-Paying Industries for Nursing Assistant (CNA) (U.S.)
Which industries pay Nursing Assistant (CNA)s the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Nursing Assistant (CNA)s in Arkansas tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Finance and Insurance | $60,710 | 40 |
| Administrative and Support Services | $47,810 | 49K |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $47,050 | 47K |
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $46,920 | 430 |
| Wholesale Trade | $46,540 | — |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Arkansas vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Arkansas) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $34,430 |
| 2026 (projected) | $35,463 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Arkansas Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $34,430 | $41,812 |
| 2026 (projected) | $35,463 | $43,066 |
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary by Experience Level in Arkansas
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $30,200 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $34,430 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $36,070 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $39,020 |
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Other States
Related Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salaries in Arkansas
How other high-demand occupations in Arkansas compare to Nursing Assistant (CNA) ($34,430 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surgeon in AR | $254,940 | +640.5% | $122.57/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in AR | $233,130 | +577.1% | $112.08/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in AR | $224,280 | +551.4% | $107.83/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in AR | $215,820 | +526.8% | $103.76/hr |
| Dentist in AR | $178,930 | +419.7% | $86.02/hr |
| Pediatrician in AR | $160,440 | +366.0% | $77.13/hr |
| Pharmacist in AR | $136,060 | +295.2% | $65.41/hr |
| Nurse Practitioner in AR | $125,660 | +265.0% | $60.41/hr |
| Psychiatrist in AR | $124,750 | +262.3% | $59.98/hr |
| Optometrist in AR | $124,470 | +261.5% | $59.84/hr |
| Physician Assistant in AR | $118,430 | +244.0% | $56.94/hr |
| Veterinarian in AR | $107,710 | +212.8% | $51.78/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average hourly pay for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Arkansas?
- The average hourly pay for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Arkansas is about $17 per hour. This is derived from the median annual salary of $34,430, indicating that most CNAs in the state earn around this rate.
What is the salary range for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Arkansas?
- The typical salary range for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Arkansas is between $28,840 and $39,020 annually. This means that most CNAs in the state fall within these income brackets, with the median at $34,430.
How does the Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Arkansas compare to the national average?
- The Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Arkansas is 17.7% lower than the national average. While the median annual salary in Arkansas is $34,430, the national median is higher, reflecting a regional difference in compensation.
How many Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are employed in Arkansas?
- There are approximately 17,260 Nursing Assistants (CNAs) employed in Arkansas. This substantial number highlights the demand for these healthcare professionals within the state.