Phlebotomists vs. Nursing Assistants: Who Earns More?
Phlebotomists out-earn Nursing Assistants by $3K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Phlebotomists land at $45,230 and Nursing Assistants at $42,260. The education gap is real: phlebotomist programs typically require postsecondary nondegree award, while nursing assistant programs require postsecondary nondegree award. Top-paying state for Phlebotomists is California ($56,040); for Nursing Assistants it's Oregon ($49,830).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Phlebotomists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Phlebotomists or Nursing Assistants?
Phlebotomists earn more nationally. The median is $45,230 for Phlebotomists versus $42,260 for Nursing Assistants, a difference of $3K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Phlebotomists or Nursing Assistants?
Phlebotomists has the better 10-year outlook at 5.6% projected growth, compared to 2.3% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Phlebotomists or Nursing Assistants?
Phlebotomists typically requires postsecondary nondegree award. Nursing Assistants requires postsecondary nondegree award. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Phlebotomists get paid the most?
California is the top-paying state for Phlebotomists at $56,040/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Phlebotomists vs. Nursing Assistants pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In California, Phlebotomists earn $56,040 vs. $47,630 for Nursing Assistants. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.