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Healthcare Support · Arkansas

How to Become a Nursing Assistants in Arkansas

Nursing Assistants in Arkansas earn a median salary of $31,990/year, which is 19% below the national average. Arkansas has a state income tax of ~3.4%. After taxes and rent, a nursing assistants takes home approximately $810/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.

$32K
Median salary in Arkansas
-19%
vs. national average
3.4%
State income tax
17,620
Employed in Arkansas

What a nursing assistants can afford in Arkansas

Gross annual salary$31,990
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.4% state tax)$2,222/mo
Median 2BR rent (Arkansas)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home63.5% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$31,990/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$810/mo

Becoming a nursing assistants in Arkansas

1

Meet education requirements

Nursing Assistants positions in Arkansas typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Arkansas. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many nursing assistants positions in Arkansas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Arkansas licensure or certification

Arkansas may require specific licensing or professional certification for nursing assistantss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Arkansas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Arkansas

Arkansas employs 17,620 nursing assistants. The highest concentrations are in Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway and Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers.

Nursing Assistants salary by metro area in Arkansas

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway$36K$17.13/hr4,710
Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers$36K$17.13/hr2,410
Jonesboro$33K$16/hr1,050
Fort Smith$31K$15.02/hr1,500
Hot Springs$30K$14.21/hr890

Nursing Assistants salary range in Arkansas

10th percentile (entry)
$28K
25th percentile
$30K
Median (50th)
$32K
75th percentile
$36K
90th percentile (senior)
$39K
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Full nursing assistants salary breakdown in Arkansas
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a nursing assistants make in Arkansas?

The median nursing assistants salary in Arkansas is $31,990 per year ($15.38/hr). This is 19% below the national median of $39,530. Salaries range from $28,330 to $39,430.

What are the requirements to become a nursing assistants in Arkansas?

Nursing Assistants positions in Arkansas typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Arkansas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Arkansas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a nursing assistants afford to live in Arkansas?

At the median salary of $31,990, a nursing assistants in Arkansas would take home approximately $2,222/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 63.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for nursing assistants in Arkansas?

The highest paying metro areas for nursing assistants in Arkansas are Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway ($35,630), Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers ($35,620), Jonesboro ($33,270). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Arkansas have state income tax for nursing assistants?

Yes, Arkansas has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.4%. On a $31,990 salary, this means roughly $1,080/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.