CNA jobs are available in virtually every US city and town — but pay rates, demand levels, and employer types vary significantly by location. This guide helps you find CNA jobs by city, understand salary differences across major metro areas, identify the top employers in each market, and apply effectively for certified nursing assistant positions near you.
CNA salaries vary dramatically depending on where you work. Cost of living, state minimum wage laws, union presence, and local healthcare market competition all affect what CNAs earn in different cities.
Approximate 2026 CNA hourly rates by city:
For a full salary breakdown including shift differentials and benefits, see our cna pay guide. California positions are covered in depth in our cna jobs in california article.
CNA job availability varies by city based on the local mix of healthcare facilities. Here are the primary employer types in different city markets:
Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) and Nursing Homes: The largest employer of CNAs nationwide — present in every city and town. Pay ranges from entry-level to mid-tier depending on facility size and ownership. Many nursing home CNAs work 12-hour shifts with weekend rotation.
Hospitals: Hospital CNA positions (often called patient care technicians or PCTs) typically pay more than nursing home positions — $2–$5/hr more in many markets. Hospital CNAs support RNs on medical/surgical, ICU, pediatric, and other units. Competitive positions — often require 1+ year of CNA experience.
Assisted Living Facilities: A growing employer as the US population ages. Assisted living CNAs typically work with higher-functioning residents in a less acute environment than nursing homes. Strong demand in retirement-heavy markets like Phoenix, Florida, and suburban markets nationwide.
Home Health Agencies: Home health CNA positions provide one-on-one patient care in clients' homes. Pay is often competitive with facility work, and some home health CNAs appreciate the autonomy and variety. Available in all markets — highest demand in urban and suburban areas. See our cna hospital jobs guide for hospital-specific positions.
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Try these questions from our free CNA practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.
When nursing assistants find equipment in need of repair, they should
Answer: C. report it to the appropriate personnel.
If a nursing assistant finds equipment in need of repair, their immediate responsibility is to report it to the appropriate personnel, such as the nurse, supervisor, or maintenance department. Using faulty equipment can pose a significant safety risk to both patients and staff. Reporting ensures the item can be repaired or replaced promptly, maintaining a safe environment.
A CNA with 10 years of experience in rehabilitation wants to become a restorative nursing assistant. What does this role primarily focus on?
Answer: B. Helping patients maintain or regain functional independence
Restorative nursing assistants focus on programs that help residents maintain or regain the highest possible level of functional independence.
Patients may become aggressive and assault nursing assistants. If this occurs, you ought to ______.
Answer: B. back away from the patient and talk to them in a calm voice.
When a patient becomes aggressive, the immediate priority is to ensure safety for both the patient and the caregiver. Backing away creates physical space, reducing the risk of injury, while speaking calmly can help de-escalate the situation. It's important to avoid confrontational actions and seek assistance from other staff or the nurse after ensuring immediate safety.
On admission to a nursing home or a long-term care facility, a resident must be given
Answer: C. a copy of the Resident Bill of Rights.
Upon admission to a nursing home or long-term care facility, federal law (OBRA '87) mandates that residents receive a copy of the Resident Bill of Rights. This ensures they are fully aware of their legal rights regarding care, privacy, dignity, and participation in decisions affecting their well-being. Providing this document empowers residents to advocate for themselves and understand their entitlements.