How to Become a Nursing Assistants in California
Nursing Assistants in California earn a median salary of $46,420/year, which is 17% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~2.3%. After taxes and rent, a nursing assistants takes home approximately $1,776/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a nursing assistants can afford in California
Becoming a nursing assistants in California
Meet education requirements
Nursing Assistants positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many nursing assistants positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for nursing assistantss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 102,380 nursing assistants. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Nursing Assistants salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $56K | $27.03/hr | 4,910 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $54K | $25.96/hr | 10,750 |
| Napa | $48K | $23.11/hr | 380 |
| Vallejo | $48K | $22.88/hr | 870 |
| Salinas | $48K | $22.84/hr | 970 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $47K | $22.78/hr | 1,130 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $47K | $22.47/hr | 350 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $47K | $22.41/hr | 9,790 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $46K | $22.24/hr | 5,410 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $46K | $22.21/hr | 1,140 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $46K | $22.19/hr | 39,910 |
| Modesto | $46K | $21.96/hr | 1,370 |
| Hanford-Corcoran | $45K | $21.82/hr | 260 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $45K | $21.81/hr | 540 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $45K | $21.79/hr | 1,950 |
Nursing Assistants salary range in California
Nursing Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a nursing assistants make in California?▼
The median nursing assistants salary in California is $46,420 per year ($22.32/hr). This is 17% above the national median of $39,530. Salaries range from $39,220 to $59,540.
What are the requirements to become a nursing assistants in California?▼
Nursing Assistants positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a nursing assistants afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $46,420, a nursing assistants in California would take home approximately $3,188/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 44.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for nursing assistants in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for nursing assistants in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($56,220), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($53,990), Napa ($48,070). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for nursing assistants?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.3%. On a $46,420 salary, this means roughly $1,076/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.