Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Massachusetts
Based on 38K+ workers in Massachusetts
Median Annual Salary (MA)
$46,680
$22.44/hr
vs National Average
$41,812
+11.6% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$39K – $58K
38K employed in Massachusetts
The median Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Massachusetts is $46,680 per year, which translates to approximately $22 per hour. This figure is notably higher than the national average, with CNAs in Massachusetts earning around 11.6% more. With over 38,130 employed in this vital role across the state, it's a significant sector of the healthcare workforce.
Several factors influence the Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Massachusetts. Experience level plays a crucial role, with more seasoned CNAs typically commanding higher pay. Location within Massachusetts also impacts earnings, as do the specific healthcare settings where CNAs are employed, such as hospitals, nursing homes, or home health agencies. Benefits packages can also affect the overall compensation.
Salary Distribution — Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Massachusetts
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $39,380 |
| 25th percentile | $44,340 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $46,680 |
| 75th percentile | $49,800 |
| 90th percentile | $57,880 |
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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Massachusetts) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $46,680 |
| 2026 (projected) | $48,080 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Massachusetts Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $46,680 | $41,812 |
| 2026 (projected) | $48,080 | $43,066 |
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary by Experience Level in Massachusetts
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $44,340 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $46,680 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $49,800 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $57,880 |
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Other States
Related Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salaries in Massachusetts
How other high-demand occupations in Massachusetts compare to Nursing Assistant (CNA) ($46,680 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radiologist in MA | $426,560 | +813.8% | $205.08/hr |
| Surgeon in MA | $387,150 | +729.4% | $186.13/hr |
| Emergency Medicine Physician in MA | $356,230 | +663.1% | $171.26/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in MA | $295,550 | +533.1% | $142.09/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in MA | $285,250 | +511.1% | $137.14/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in MA | $277,490 | +494.5% | $133.41/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in MA | $272,240 | +483.2% | $130.88/hr |
| Pediatrician in MA | $221,170 | +373.8% | $106.33/hr |
| Podiatrist in MA | $217,700 | +366.4% | $104.66/hr |
| Dentist in MA | $181,600 | +289.0% | $87.31/hr |
| Nurse Midwife in MA | $159,800 | +242.3% | $76.83/hr |
| Optometrist in MA | $151,730 | +225.0% | $72.95/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Massachusetts?
- The median salary for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Massachusetts is $46,680 annually. This means half of all CNAs in the state earn more than this amount, and half earn less.
What is the salary range for Nursing Assistants in Massachusetts?
- The salary range for Nursing Assistants (CNAs) in Massachusetts typically falls between $39,380 and $57,880 per year. This indicates that while the median is $46,680, there's a considerable variation based on experience and other factors.
How does the CNA salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
- Nursing Assistants (CNAs) in Massachusetts earn significantly more than the national average. The state's median salary is approximately 11.6% higher than the national median, making it a more lucrative location for this profession.
What is the hourly rate for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Massachusetts?
- Based on the median annual salary of $46,680, a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Massachusetts can expect to earn around $22 per hour. This hourly rate reflects the strong earning potential in the state for this role.