Nursing Assistant Salary 2025: $42,260 Median Pay, Outlook & How to Become One
The median nursing assistant salary in the U.S. is $42,260 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $20 an hour, with most earners falling between $33,940 and $51,980. The occupation employs 1,448,910 people, and about 204,100 openings are projected each year through 2034.
How much Nursing Assistants earn
Nursing assistants earn between $33,940 (10th percentile) and $51,980 (90th percentile) annually. The mean wage is $42,700, or about $20.53 per hour. Pay varies by experience, employer, and location. Hospitals and government facilities often pay more than nursing homes.
Pay by state
Where you work heavily influences your paycheck. The highest-paying states are Oregon ($49,830), Washington ($49,180), New York ($48,590), New Hampshire ($47,870), and the District of Columbia ($47,700). At the other end, nursing assistants in Louisiana earn a mean $30,510, in Mississippi $31,520, and in Alabama $34,140.
How to become a Nursing Assistant
Most nursing assistants complete a state-approved training program, typically offered at community colleges, vocational schools, or healthcare facilities. Programs cover basic nursing skills, infection control, and patient safety.
After training, you must pass a competency exam to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Many states require background checks. High school diploma or equivalent is the typical entry requirement. Some employers provide on-the-job training for orderlies, but CNA certification is the standard path.
- Complete a state-approved CNA training program (usually 4–12 weeks)
- Pass the state certification exam (written and skills test)
- Get listed on your state's nurse aide registry
- Maintain certification through continuing education (varies by state)
Job outlook
Employment is projected to grow 2.3% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. The aging population drives demand, especially in long-term care. With 1.4 million current workers, the field is large; roughly 204,100 openings per year stem from both growth and replacement needs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest paying state for Nursing Assistants?
Oregon pays the highest mean wage at $49,830 per year, followed closely by Washington at $49,180.
How long does it take to become a CNA?
Most programs take 4 to 12 weeks to complete, followed by the state certification exam.
What is the job growth for Nursing Assistants in 2025?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 2.3% growth from 2024 to 2034, about average, with roughly 204,100 openings each year.
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 Nursing Assistants data.