Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Pennsylvania
Based on 68K+ workers in Pennsylvania
Median Annual Salary (PA)
$44,590
$21.44/hr
vs National Average
$41,812
+6.6% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$38K – $49K
68K employed in Pennsylvania
The median Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Pennsylvania is $44,590 per year, which translates to approximately $21 per hour. This figure is 6.6% higher than the national average, indicating a strong demand and competitive compensation for CNAs across the state.
Several factors can influence a Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Pennsylvania. These include years of experience, the specific healthcare setting (such as hospitals, nursing homes, or home health agencies), geographic location within Pennsylvania, and any additional certifications or specializations held by the CNA.
Salary Distribution — Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Pennsylvania
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $37,760 |
| 25th percentile | $39,270 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $44,590 |
| 75th percentile | $46,850 |
| 90th percentile | $49,360 |
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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Pennsylvania) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $44,590 |
| 2026 (projected) | $45,928 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Pennsylvania Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $44,590 | $41,812 |
| 2026 (projected) | $45,928 | $43,066 |
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary by Experience Level in Pennsylvania
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $39,270 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $44,590 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $46,850 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $49,360 |
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Other States
Related Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salaries in Pennsylvania
How other high-demand occupations in Pennsylvania compare to Nursing Assistant (CNA) ($44,590 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiologist in PA | $579,120 | +1198.8% | $278.42/hr |
| Anesthesiologist in PA | $461,390 | +934.7% | $221.82/hr |
| Radiologist in PA | $455,380 | +921.3% | $218.93/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in PA | $306,030 | +586.3% | $147.13/hr |
| Psychiatrist in PA | $278,970 | +525.6% | $134.12/hr |
| Pediatrician in PA | $226,440 | +407.8% | $108.87/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in PA | $221,530 | +396.8% | $106.50/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in PA | $213,310 | +378.4% | $102.55/hr |
| Dentist in PA | $163,390 | +266.4% | $78.55/hr |
| Podiatrist in PA | $155,050 | +247.7% | $74.54/hr |
| Pharmacist in PA | $138,160 | +209.8% | $66.42/hr |
| Optometrist in PA | $135,400 | +203.7% | $65.10/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Pennsylvania?
- The median salary for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Pennsylvania is $44,590 annually, or about $21 per hour. This is slightly above the national average, suggesting competitive pay within the state.
What is the salary range for CNAs in Pennsylvania?
- In Pennsylvania, Nursing Assistants (CNAs) typically earn between $37,760 and $49,360 per year. This range reflects variations based on experience, location, and employer.
How does the CNA salary in Pennsylvania compare to the national average?
- Nursing Assistant (CNA) salaries in Pennsylvania are approximately 6.6% higher than the national average. This means CNAs in Pennsylvania tend to earn more than their counterparts in many other states.
How many Nursing Assistants are employed in Pennsylvania?
- There are a significant number of Nursing Assistants (CNAs) employed in Pennsylvania, with the total number reaching 67,740. This indicates a robust job market for this profession in the state.