Nursing Assistants: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 1,388,430 nursing assistants, and they earn a median of $39,530/year. The range runs from $31K to $50K. Oregon pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level nursing assistants start around $31K. The gap between that and the median ($40K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $50K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon | $48K | 12,800 |
| Washington | $48K | 28,080 |
| New York | $47K | 85,310 |
| District of Columbia | $47K | 2,550 |
| California | $46K | 102,380 |
| New Hampshire | $46K | 7,190 |
| Alaska | $46K | 1,660 |
| Maine | $46K | 8,590 |
| Minnesota | $46K | 26,970 |
| Massachusetts | $45K | 38,280 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a nursing assistants make?▼
The median nursing assistants salary in the United States is $39,530 per year ($19/hour). Entry-level positions start around $31,390, while experienced professionals earn up to $50,140.
What education do you need to become a nursing assistants?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for nursing assistants?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for nursing assistants.
What are the highest paying states for nursing assistants?▼
The highest paying states for nursing assistants are Oregon ($48,390), Washington ($48,260), New York ($47,390), District of Columbia ($46,860), California ($46,420). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.