Deciding where it’s best to work as a CNA in the US involves evaluating salaries, job demand, and work settings that suit your goals. Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) provide essential care in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health settings, making a difference in patients’ lives. In 2025, the demand for CNAs grows due to an aging population, with 1.2 million healthcare jobs projected by 2030, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This guide highlights top states, work environments, and practical tips to help you thrive as a CNA. Whether you seek high pay or a supportive workplace, understanding your options empowers you to build a rewarding career. Let’s explore the best places and strategies to succeed as a CNA.
Why Location Matters for CNAs
Choosing where it’s best to work as a CNA impacts your salary, job opportunities, and work-life balance. States with high demand for healthcare workers often offer better pay and benefits, while certain settings, like hospitals, provide more career growth. For example, a CNA in California earns a median of $43,570 annually, per BLS 2024 data, compared to $35,760 nationally. Urban areas often have more openings but higher living costs, while rural settings may offer lower pay but less stress. Understanding these factors helps you find a role that aligns with your financial and personal goals. A CNA in a nursing home might prefer a slower pace, while one in a hospital seeks fast-paced challenges.
Salary Considerations
- Higher pay in states like California and New York
- Median US salary: $35,760 (BLS, 2024)
- Overtime opportunities in high-demand areas
Pro Tip: Research cost of living in high-paying states before relocating.
Job Demand
- 1.2 million healthcare jobs by 2030
- High demand in aging populations
- More openings in urban hospitals
Pro Tip: Check job boards like Indeed for local CNA openings.
Picking the right location sets the foundation for a fulfilling CNA career, balancing pay, demand, and lifestyle.
Top States Where It’s Best to Work as a CNA
Certain states stand out as the best places to work as a CNA due to high salaries, strong demand, and supportive work environments. Based on BLS 2024 data, Payscale, and industry trends, these states offer CNAs competitive pay and abundant opportunities. Here are the top five states for CNAs in 2025.
1. California
California leads with a median CNA salary of $43,570. The state’s 1,500+ hospitals and nursing homes drive demand, especially in cities like Los Angeles. CNAs enjoy benefits like health insurance and overtime pay. High living costs are a factor, but urban areas offer ample job openings. Visit CDPH for certification details.
2. New York
New York offers a median salary of $41,160, with strong demand in New York City and upstate facilities. CNAs benefit from union support and training programs. The state’s diverse healthcare settings, from clinics to home health, provide flexibility. Visit NY Health for licensing info.
3. Oregon
Oregon’s median CNA salary is $40,280. The state’s focus on quality care creates supportive work environments, especially in Portland. Rural facilities offer lower stress but slightly lower pay. Visit OSBN for certification requirements.
4. Washington
Washington pays CNAs a median of $39,950, with high demand in Seattle’s hospitals. The state offers tuition reimbursement and career advancement programs. Rural areas provide a slower pace. Visit WA DOH for licensing details.
5. Massachusetts
Massachusetts offers a median salary of $39,100, with Boston’s medical hubs driving demand. CNAs access training and benefits through major hospitals. Visit Mass.gov for certification info.
These states provide CNAs with high pay and opportunities, making them ideal places to start or grow your career.
Best Work Settings for CNAs
Where it’s best to work as a CNA depends on the work setting, each offering unique benefits and challenges. Hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies are the primary employers, each suiting different preferences. For example, a CNA seeking fast-paced work might choose a hospital, while one preferring close patient relationships might opt for home health. Understanding these settings helps you pick the right environment.
Hospitals
Hospitals offer dynamic environments with median salaries of $38,000 (BLS, 2024). CNAs assist in emergency rooms or surgical units, gaining diverse skills. They often access tuition reimbursement and shift differentials. Visit AHA for hospital job trends.
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes provide stable schedules and median salaries of $35,200. CNAs build long-term patient relationships, ideal for those who value consistency. Facilities often offer training programs. Visit AHCA for industry insights.
Home Health
Home health CNAs earn $34,800 and enjoy flexible schedules. They provide one-on-one care, fostering strong patient bonds. Travel between clients requires reliable transportation. Visit NAHC for home health resources.
Choose a setting that matches your career goals and work style to maximize job satisfaction.
Tips to Thrive as a CNA
Finding where it’s best to work as a CNA is just the start. Success requires building skills, managing stress, and advancing your career. CNAs must maintain certification, complete continuing education (12-48 hours annually, depending on state), and develop strong patient care skills. For example, a CNA in a hospital might take a phlebotomy course to boost employability. These strategies help you excel in any setting.
Build Skills
- Master patient care techniques
- Take courses like CPR or phlebotomy
- Practice clear communication
Pro Tip: Enroll in free courses at Red Cross.
Manage Stress
- Use mindfulness or meditation
- Take breaks during shifts
- Seek support from colleagues
Pro Tip: Use apps like Calm for stress relief.
Invest in your skills and well-being to build a sustainable, rewarding CNA career.
Using Staffing Agencies to Find CNA Jobs
Staffing agencies help CNAs find the best places to work by connecting them with healthcare employers. Agencies like Aya Healthcare and IntelyCare specialize in healthcare, offering temporary, travel, or permanent CNA roles. They provide benefits like health insurance and fast placements, often within 72 hours. For example, a CNA might use Aya Healthcare to secure a travel nursing assistant role in California. Registering with multiple agencies increases job options in high-demand states.
Top Agencies for CNAs
- Aya Healthcare: Travel and per diem roles
- IntelyCare: Flexible scheduling
- Maxim Healthcare: Home health focus
Pro Tip: Register at Aya Healthcare for quick placements.
How to Work with Agencies
- Submit a resume with certifications
- Specify preferred work settings
- Check reviews on Glassdoor
Pro Tip: Update your profile regularly to stay visible.
Staffing agencies streamline your job search, connecting you to the best CNA opportunities in top states and settings.
Build a Rewarding CNA Career
Finding where it’s best to work as a CNA means choosing locations and settings that match your goals. States like California and New York offer high pay and demand, while hospitals, nursing homes, and home health provide diverse opportunities. Use staffing agencies, build skills, and manage stress to thrive. As a CNA, you play a vital role in healthcare, improving lives daily. Start exploring top states and employers today to launch a fulfilling career that grows with you.
FAQs About Where It’s Best to Work as a CNA
Which states pay CNAs the most?
California ($43,570), New York ($41,160), and Oregon ($40,280) offer the highest median salaries for CNAs, per BLS 2024 data.
What’s the best work setting for a CNA?
Hospitals offer high pay and growth, nursing homes provide stability, and home health offers flexibility, depending on your preferences.
How do staffing agencies help CNAs find jobs?
Agencies like Aya Healthcare connect CNAs to temporary, travel, or permanent roles, offering benefits and fast placements.
Do CNAs need continuing education?
Yes, states require 12-48 hours of continuing education annually to maintain certification, varying by state regulations.
Can CNAs advance their careers?
Yes, CNAs can pursue training in phlebotomy, medical assisting, or nursing to move into higher-paying healthcare roles.
