Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Wisconsin
Based on 28K+ workers in Wisconsin
Median Annual Salary (WI)
$45,130
$21.70/hr
vs National Average
$41,812
+7.9% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$38K – $51K
28K employed in Wisconsin
The median annual salary for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Wisconsin is $45,130, which translates to approximately $22 per hour. This figure is notably higher than the national average, with Wisconsin CNAs earning about 7.9% more. With over 28,000 employed CNAs, Wisconsin offers a significant job market for these vital healthcare professionals.
Several factors influence the Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Wisconsin. Experience level, the specific healthcare facility, and geographic location within the state all play a role. Additionally, the demand for CNAs and any specialized certifications can impact earning potential, potentially pushing salaries beyond the typical range of $37,900 to $50,650.
Salary Distribution — Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Wisconsin
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $37,900 |
| 25th percentile | $39,580 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $45,130 |
| 75th percentile | $47,320 |
| 90th percentile | $50,650 |
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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Wisconsin) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $45,130 |
| 2026 (projected) | $46,484 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Wisconsin Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $45,130 | $41,812 |
| 2026 (projected) | $46,484 | $43,066 |
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary by Experience Level in Wisconsin
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $39,580 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $45,130 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $47,320 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $50,650 |
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Other States
Related Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salaries in Wisconsin
How other high-demand occupations in Wisconsin compare to Nursing Assistant (CNA) ($45,130 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiologist in WI | $636,580 | +1310.5% | $306.05/hr |
| Anesthesiologist in WI | $443,990 | +883.8% | $213.46/hr |
| Surgeon in WI | $416,000 | +821.8% | $200.00/hr |
| Radiologist in WI | $392,610 | +770.0% | $188.75/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in WI | $367,160 | +713.6% | $176.52/hr |
| Psychiatrist in WI | $331,070 | +633.6% | $159.17/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in WI | $304,990 | +575.8% | $146.63/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in WI | $290,640 | +544.0% | $139.73/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in WI | $273,170 | +505.3% | $131.33/hr |
| Pediatrician in WI | $269,790 | +497.8% | $129.71/hr |
| Dentist in WI | $193,690 | +329.2% | $93.12/hr |
| Podiatrist in WI | $185,100 | +310.1% | $88.99/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average hourly wage for a CNA in Wisconsin?
- The average hourly wage for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Wisconsin is around $22 per hour. This is derived from the median annual salary of $45,130.
How does the CNA salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
- CNAs in Wisconsin earn approximately 7.9% more than the national average. This means their median salary of $45,130 is higher than what many CNAs earn across the country.
What is the typical salary range for a CNA in Wisconsin?
- The typical salary range for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Wisconsin falls between $37,900 and $50,650 annually. This indicates that most CNAs will earn within these brackets.
How many CNAs are employed in Wisconsin?
- Wisconsin has a substantial workforce of Nursing Assistants (CNAs), with a total of 28,370 individuals employed in this role.