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How to Become a Nursing Assistants in Massachusetts

Nursing Assistants in Massachusetts earn a median salary of $45,410/year, which is 15% above the national average. Massachusetts has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a nursing assistants takes home approximately $1,609/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.

$45K
Median salary in Massachusetts
+15%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
38,280
Employed in Massachusetts

What a nursing assistants can afford in Massachusetts

Gross annual salary$45,410
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$3,021/mo
Median 2BR rent (Massachusetts)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home46.7% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$45,410/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,609/mo

Becoming a nursing assistants in Massachusetts

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Massachusetts licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Massachusetts

Massachusetts employs 38,280 nursing assistants. The highest concentrations are in Boston-Cambridge-Newton and Barnstable Town.

Nursing Assistants salary by metro area in Massachusetts

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Boston-Cambridge-Newton$46K$22.17/hr25,870
Barnstable Town$46K$21.92/hr1,000
Pittsfield$45K$21.54/hr770
Worcester$44K$21.19/hr5,490
Amherst Town-Northampton$44K$20.98/hr600
Springfield$41K$19.82/hr2,960

Nursing Assistants salary range in Massachusetts

10th percentile (entry)
$38K
25th percentile
$40K
Median (50th)
$45K
75th percentile
$48K
90th percentile (senior)
$56K
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Full nursing assistants salary breakdown in Massachusetts
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a nursing assistants make in Massachusetts?

The median nursing assistants salary in Massachusetts is $45,410 per year ($21.83/hr). This is 15% above the national median of $39,530. Salaries range from $38,380 to $56,340.

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

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

Can a nursing assistants afford to live in Massachusetts?

At the median salary of $45,410, a nursing assistants in Massachusetts would take home approximately $3,021/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 46.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for nursing assistants in Massachusetts?

The highest paying metro areas for nursing assistants in Massachusetts are Boston-Cambridge-Newton ($46,110), Barnstable Town ($45,600), Pittsfield ($44,800). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Massachusetts have state income tax for nursing assistants?

Yes, Massachusetts has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $45,410 salary, this means roughly $2,271/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.