Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Colorado
Based on 22K+ workers in Colorado
Median Annual Salary (CO)
$47,380
$22.78/hr
vs National Average
$41,812
+13.3% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$39K – $56K
22K employed in Colorado
The median Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Colorado is $47,380 per year, which equates to approximately $23 per hour. This figure is 13.3% higher than the national average for CNAs, indicating a strong demand for these healthcare professionals within the state. With a total of 22,240 employed CNAs, Colorado offers a robust job market.
Several factors can influence the Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Colorado. Experience level is a significant determinant, with more seasoned CNAs typically earning higher wages. Geographic location within Colorado also plays a role, as does the specific healthcare setting, such as hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, or home healthcare agencies. Smaller employers may offer slightly different compensation packages.
Salary Distribution — Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Colorado
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $38,690 |
| 25th percentile | $44,550 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $47,380 |
| 75th percentile | $49,920 |
| 90th percentile | $56,070 |
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 Colorado 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 Colorado vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Colorado) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $47,380 |
| 2026 (projected) | $48,801 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Colorado Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $47,380 | $41,812 |
| 2026 (projected) | $48,801 | $43,066 |
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary by Experience Level in Colorado
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $44,550 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $47,380 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $49,920 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $56,070 |
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Other States
Related Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salaries in Colorado
How other high-demand occupations in Colorado compare to Nursing Assistant (CNA) ($47,380 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radiologist in CO | $344,270 | +626.6% | $165.51/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in CO | $299,990 | +533.2% | $144.23/hr |
| Psychiatrist in CO | $266,370 | +462.2% | $128.06/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in CO | $265,560 | +460.5% | $127.67/hr |
| Pediatrician in CO | $196,440 | +314.6% | $94.44/hr |
| Dentist in CO | $166,240 | +250.9% | $79.92/hr |
| Pharmacist in CO | $156,030 | +229.3% | $75.01/hr |
| Optometrist in CO | $152,000 | +220.8% | $73.08/hr |
| Podiatrist in CO | $142,620 | +201.0% | $68.57/hr |
| Nurse Midwife in CO | $137,610 | +190.4% | $66.16/hr |
| Medical and Health Services Manager in CO | $134,910 | +184.7% | $64.86/hr |
| Physician Assistant in CO | $134,540 | +184.0% | $64.68/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a CNA in Colorado?
- The salary range for a CNA in Colorado typically falls between $38,690 and $56,070 annually. This means that while the median is $47,380, individual earnings can vary considerably based on experience and other factors.
How does the average CNA salary in Colorado compare to the national average?
- CNAs in Colorado earn a median salary of $47,380 per year, which is 13.3% higher than the national average. This suggests that the compensation for Certified Nursing Assistants is particularly favorable in Colorado compared to other states.
What are the highest paying cities for CNAs in Colorado?
- While specific city data isn't provided, larger metropolitan areas or regions with higher costs of living often see higher CNA salaries. Given the state's median of $47,380, areas like Denver might offer compensation at the higher end of the $38,690 to $56,070 range.
Is the demand for CNAs high in Colorado?
- Yes, the demand appears to be strong. There are 22,240 CNAs currently employed in Colorado, and the median salary of $47,380 being 13.3% above the national average also suggests a competitive market for these professionals.