🏥 Healthcare ↑ 4% growth · Average

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

CNAs are the heart of hands-on patient care — helping residents bathe, eat, dress, and maintain dignity. Programs as short as 4–6 weeks make this the fastest entry point into healthcare, with a clear ladder to LPN and RN.

$35,760 Median Salary
1.5M US Jobs
4–12 weeks Training
$1,000–$5,000 Typical Cost

💰 Salary & Earning Potential

Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Figures represent national averages — local wages vary by state, city, and employer.

Entry Level
$27,000
Median
$35,760
Experienced
$45,000
Want your state's salary? Select a state below to see local wage data, demand, and training programs.

📈 Job Outlook

4%
Projected Growth (10yr)
Average
1.5M
Total US Jobs
Active positions nationwide
State CNA Certification
Required Credential
State CNA Certification (written + skills test)

🎓 Training & Education

Typical Program
CNA Certificate
Program Length
4–12 weeks
Typical Tuition
$1,000–$5,000
Work Setting
Nursing homes, assisted living, hospitals
🏆 Credential Required: State CNA Certification (written + skills test)

☀️ Day in the Life

A typical day as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) involves working closely with clients and colleagues in a Nursing homes environment. You'll apply your training daily while building expertise and advancing your career.

⚖️ Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • ✅ Strong job security
  • ✅ Rewarding work
  • ✅ Clear career progression
  • ✅ Growing demand

Challenges

  • ⚠️ Can be physically demanding
  • ⚠️ May require ongoing certification
  • ⚠️ Entry-level wages vary by region

🏫 Schools Offering This Program

Public Technical College
⭐ 90

Atlantic Technical College

📍 Coconut Creek, FL

Broward County's technical school — one of the most affordable pathways to healthcare and trades certifications in South...

LPNMedical AssistingDental AssistingCNAPharmacy Tech
Public Technical College
⭐ 89

Manatee Technical College

📍 Bradenton, FL

Manatee County's technical school offering some of the most affordable career training in the Tampa Bay region....

LPNMedical AssistingCNADental AssistingHVAC
Public Technical College
⭐ 91

Georgia Piedmont Technical College

📍 Clarkston, GA

Part of Georgia's Technical College System (TCSG) serving DeKalb and Rockdale counties in metro Atlanta. Highly affordab...

LPN/Practical NursingMedical AssistingCNAEMSHVAC
Public Technical College
⭐ 90

Atlanta Technical College

📍 Atlanta, GA

Downtown Atlanta technical college with an outstanding reputation for healthcare and trades training at TCSG rates....

LPNMedical AssistingDental AssistingCNACosmetology

🗺️ Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) by State

See local salary data, licensing requirements, and schools in your state: