Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in South Dakota
Based on 7K+ workers in South Dakota
Median Annual Salary (SD)
$38,800
$18.65/hr
vs National Average
$41,812
-7.2% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$31K – $46K
7K employed in South Dakota
The median salary for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in South Dakota is $38,800 per year, which equates to about $19 per hour. This figure is 7.2% lower than the national average for CNAs. There are approximately 6,860 employed CNAs across the state, contributing to the healthcare sector.
Several factors can influence a Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in South Dakota. Experience level is a primary driver, with more seasoned CNAs often earning higher wages. Location within the state, the specific healthcare facility (e.g., hospital vs. nursing home), and any additional certifications or specialized skills can also impact pay rates, typically falling between $31,110 and $46,100 annually.
Salary Distribution — Nursing Assistant (CNA) in South Dakota
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $31,110 |
| 25th percentile | $36,830 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $38,800 |
| 75th percentile | $43,940 |
| 90th percentile | $46,100 |
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 South Dakota 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 South Dakota vs National
| Year | Median Salary (South Dakota) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $38,800 |
| 2026 (projected) | $39,964 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | South Dakota Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $38,800 | $41,812 |
| 2026 (projected) | $39,964 | $43,066 |
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary by Experience Level in South Dakota
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $36,830 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $38,800 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $43,940 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $46,100 |
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Other States
Related Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salaries in South Dakota
How other high-demand occupations in South Dakota compare to Nursing Assistant (CNA) ($38,800 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radiologist in SD | $586,010 | +1410.3% | $281.74/hr |
| Emergency Medicine Physician in SD | $393,870 | +915.1% | $189.36/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in SD | $297,610 | +667.0% | $143.08/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in SD | $280,520 | +623.0% | $134.87/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in SD | $263,930 | +580.2% | $126.89/hr |
| Pediatrician in SD | $257,610 | +563.9% | $123.85/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in SD | $239,970 | +518.5% | $115.37/hr |
| Psychiatrist in SD | $226,180 | +482.9% | $108.74/hr |
| Dentist in SD | $158,140 | +307.6% | $76.03/hr |
| Pharmacist in SD | $146,790 | +278.3% | $70.57/hr |
| Physician Assistant in SD | $133,200 | +243.3% | $64.04/hr |
| Nurse Practitioner in SD | $128,840 | +232.1% | $61.94/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average annual salary for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in South Dakota?
- The median annual salary for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in South Dakota is $38,800. This means half of CNAs in the state earn more than this amount, and half earn less.
How much does a Nursing Assistant (CNA) make per hour in South Dakota?
- On average, Nursing Assistants (CNAs) in South Dakota earn approximately $19 per hour. This hourly rate is derived from the median annual salary of $38,800.
What is the salary range for Nursing Assistants (CNAs) in South Dakota?
- The salary range for Nursing Assistants (CNAs) in South Dakota is typically between $31,110 and $46,100 annually. Entry-level positions may be closer to the lower end, while experienced CNAs can earn towards the higher end of this spectrum.
How does the Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
- Nursing Assistant (CNA) salaries in South Dakota are about 7.2% lower than the national average. While the median in South Dakota is $38,800 per year, the national median is higher, reflecting regional cost of living and demand differences.