Home Health and Personal Care Aides; and Nursing Assistants, Orderlies, and Psychiatric Aides earn $37,070 median in 2024
The median annual salary for Home Health and Personal Care Aides; and Nursing Assistants, Orderlies, and Psychiatric Aides is $37,070, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That works out to about $18 per hour, with the typical range spanning from $28,250 at the 10th percentile to $47,430 at the 90th. Over 5.8 million people work in this combined occupation, making it one of the largest in the U.S. workforce.
How much Home Health and Personal Care Aides; and Nursing Assistants, Orderlies, and Psychiatric Aides earn
The national median salary for these roles is $37,070 per year, or roughly $18 an hour. Half of workers earn between $28,250 and $47,430. The bottom 10% bring in about $28,250 or less, while the top 10% make up to $47,430. These figures are based on the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics and include all workers in the category—home health aides, personal care aides, nursing assistants, orderlies, and psychiatric aides.
Pay by state
State-level pay data is not available for this combined occupation from the BLS at this time. However, individual occupations within the group—such as nursing assistants—typically show higher wages in states like Alaska, New York, and California, and lower wages in southern states like Mississippi and Arkansas. For a more precise breakdown, check the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics for each specific job title.
How to become Home Health and Personal Care Aides; and Nursing Assistants, Orderlies, and Psychiatric Aides
Entry requirements vary by role but generally do not require a college degree. Home health and personal care aides typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Nursing assistants must complete a state-approved training program and pass a competency exam to become certified (CNA). Orderlies often need a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Psychiatric aides may require a high school diploma and some states require certification or a brief training program. All roles usually involve a background check.
- Complete a state-approved training program for nursing assistants (typically 4-12 weeks).
- Pass a competency exam to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
- For home health aides, complete at least 75 hours of training under federal requirements.
- Personal care aides often learn through on-the-job training; no formal certification is required in most states.
- Psychiatric aides may need a high school diploma and can receive training from the employer.
Job outlook
The BLS does not provide a projected growth rate for this combined occupation from 2024 to 2034. However, the individual roles are expected to grow much faster than average due to an aging population and increased demand for healthcare services. For example, home health and personal care aides are projected to grow 22% from 2022 to 2032, and nursing assistants 4% in the same period. Actual figures for the combined group are not available.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a degree to become a home health aide or nursing assistant?
No. Most roles require only a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Nursing assistants need to complete a state-approved training program and pass a certification exam.
Which state pays the most for these jobs?
State-specific data for the combined group isn't available, but nursing assistants tend to earn the most in Alaska, New York, and California. Check the BLS for individual occupation wages by state.
Is the hourly wage really $18?
The median hourly wage is about $18 based on the annual median of $37,070 for a full-time, year-round worker. Actual hourly rates vary by role and location.
What is the difference between a home health aide and a personal care aide?
Home health aides can provide basic medical care (e.g., checking vitals) and often work under a nurse's supervision. Personal care aides focus on non-medical tasks like bathing, dressing, and housekeeping.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Home Health and Personal Care Aides; and Nursing Assistants, Orderlies, and Psychiatric Aides data.