What Does a CNA Earn? Exploring Salary Expectations in 2025
If you’re thinking about becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), you’re probably asking one very practical question: How much does it pay?
It’s a fair—and important—question. Because while most CNAs are drawn to the work out of a desire to help others, the reality is that this is your career. And your time, skills, and effort deserve to be compensated fairly.
In this article, we’re going beyond national averages. We’ll dig into salary by state, pay by facility type, what influences CNA wages, and how you can increase your income over time.
CNA Salary Overview in 2025
According to the latest labor statistics, the average CNA in the U.S. earns between $17.50 and $19.50 per hour, which translates to about $36,000–$40,000 annually for full-time work.
| Experience Level | Average Hourly Wage | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $15.00 – $17.00 | $31,000 – $35,000 |
| 2–4 Years Experience | $18.00 – $20.00 | $37,000 – $41,000 |
| 5+ Years Experience | $21.00 – $24.00 | $43,500 – $50,000 |
It’s not just about the years. Where you work and what you bring to the table matter too.
CNA Pay by State (2025 Data)
Here’s a snapshot of how pay varies depending on where you live:
| State | Average Hourly Wage | Average Annual Salary |
| California | $23.80 | $49,500 |
| New York | $22.10 | $45,000 |
| Florida | $17.50 | $36,000 |
| Texas | $18.40 | $38,300 |
| Tennessee | $16.75 | $34,800 |
| Illinois | $19.00 | $39,500 |
Higher-paying states tend to have a higher cost of living—but also offer more full-time CNA positions with benefits.
Facility Type Matters Too
Your employer type plays a big role in how much you’ll make:
| Facility Type | Average Hourly Wage |
| Hospitals | $21.00 – $24.00 |
| Skilled Nursing Facilities | $17.00 – $20.00 |
| Assisted Living | $16.00 – $18.00 |
| Home Health Care | $18.50 – $22.00 |
| Hospice Care | $19.00 – $23.00 |
Hospitals and hospice settings tend to pay more, while long-term care or assisted living centers may offer steadier hours or easier onboarding.
Other Factors That Affect CNA Salary
1. Shift Differentials
Many employers offer extra pay for night shifts, weekends, or holidays. This can add $1–$3 more per hour.
2. Certifications and Specialties
Having CPR, dementia care, or wound care certifications can set you apart and increase pay.
3. Geographic Area (Urban vs. Rural)
Urban hospitals typically pay more, but rural areas may offer relocation bonuses or higher base pay due to staffing shortages.
4. Unionization
Some CNAs in unionized facilities have stronger salary protections and benefits.
What Benefits Are Typically Offered?
In addition to base pay, many CNA positions include:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off
- Tuition assistance for nursing school
- Retirement plan matching
- Paid training and CEUs
These extras can add thousands in real value.
How to Increase Your CNA Earnings
You don’t have to settle for minimum pay. Here’s how CNAs are boosting their income in 2025:
➤ Work in High-Demand Environments
ICUs, ERs, and behavioral health units often pay more.
➤ Take Weekend and Night Shifts
Yes, it’s tough—but the pay bump is real.
➤ Become a Preceptor or Team Lead
Train other CNAs or float across departments. Added responsibility = added pay.
➤ Add Certifications
Look for specialties like:
- Alzheimer’s and dementia care
- Restorative nursing
- Infection prevention
➤ Consider Travel CNA Work
Traveling CNAs can make $1,000–$1,400 per week (plus housing stipends).
Real Story: How One CNA Boosted Her Pay by 40%
I know a CNA named Tasha who started out in a nursing home earning $15/hr. She took extra shifts on weekends, got CPR and dementia certifications, and transitioned to a hospital ER role within 18 months.
By year three, she was earning $22/hr + benefits and had a flexible schedule that allowed her to start LPN classes part-time.
She didn’t wait for a raise—she built her value.
Long-Term Earning Potential Beyond CNA
Many CNAs use the role as a springboard. Here’s what average salaries look like for common next steps:
| Role | Average Salary |
| CNA | $37,000 |
| Medical Assistant | $42,000 |
| LPN | $53,000 |
| RN (Associate Degree) | $68,000 |
| RN (BSN) | $75,000+ |
By starting as a CNA, you save money, gain experience, and earn while you climb the ladder.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a CNA is one of the fastest and most affordable ways to launch a career in healthcare. And while the starting pay might be modest, the potential to grow is huge.
The best part? Your earnings reflect your effort. The more experience, certifications, and responsibility you take on—the more you’re worth.
So what does a CNA earn? A steady income, a pathway to growth, and the kind of fulfillment that most jobs can’t offer.
Explore CNA Training Options Near You
Up next: Ready to go remote? Check out “Online CNA Classes: Flexible Learning for Aspiring Nursing Assistants” for your next step!
