Psychiatric Aides vs. Nursing Assistants: Who Earns More?
Psychiatric Aidess out-earn Nursing Assistantss by $3K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Psychiatric Aidess land at $44,910 and Nursing Assistantss at $42,260. The education gap is real: psychiatric aide programs typically require postsecondary nondegree award, while nursing assistant programs require postsecondary nondegree award. Top-paying state for Psychiatric Aidess is Minnesota ($55,040); for Nursing Assistantss it's Oregon ($49,830).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Psychiatric Aides median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Psychiatric Aidess or Nursing Assistantss?
Psychiatric Aidess earn more nationally. The median is $44,910 for Psychiatric Aidess versus $42,260 for Nursing Assistantss, a difference of $3K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Psychiatric Aides or Nursing Assistants?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Psychiatric Aides or Nursing Assistants?
Psychiatric Aides typically requires postsecondary nondegree award. Nursing Assistants requires postsecondary nondegree award. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Psychiatric Aidess get paid the most?
Minnesota is the top-paying state for Psychiatric Aidess at $55,040/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Psychiatric Aides vs. Nursing Assistants pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Minnesota, Psychiatric Aidess earn $55,040 vs. $46,680 for Nursing Assistantss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.