May 2025 BLS data
Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in California
The median nursing assistant (cna) in California earns $47,630/year ($22.90/hr) — 13% above the national median.
Median pay
$47,630/yr
Hourly median
$22.90/hr
State rank
#6 of 51
Employed
110,060
Nursing Assistant (CNA) pay percentiles in California
| Percentile | Hourly | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $19.28 | $40,110 |
| 25th percentile | $22.04 | $45,850 |
| Median (50th) | $22.90 | $47,630 |
| 75th percentile | $26.35 | $54,800 |
| 90th percentile | $29.38 | $61,100 |
The spread is large: top-decile nursing assistant (cna)s in California out-earn the bottom decile by $10.10/hour — experience, certifications, and setting drive most of that gap.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025.
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What do people in your role actually earn?
Nursing Assistant (CNA)s in California earn
$19.28–$29.38 /hour
Median $47,630/year · 110,060 employed
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025
Nearby states compared
Top-paying states for nursing assistant (cna)s
- 1. Oregon$49,830/yr
- 2. Washington$49,180/yr
- 3. New York$48,590/yr
- 4. New Hampshire$47,870/yr
- 5. District of Columbia$47,700/yr
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Nursing Assistant (CNA) salaries in every stateFrequently asked questions
How much does a nursing assistant (cna) make in California?
The median nursing assistant (cna) in California earns $47,630 per year, or $22.90 per hour, according to May 2025 BLS data. Most earn between $40,110 (10th percentile) and $61,100 (90th percentile).
What is a good nursing assistant (cna) salary in California?
Top-quartile nursing assistant (cna)s in California earn $54,800 or more per year ($26.35/hr). Reaching that range typically comes from experience, certifications, and higher-paying settings.
How does California compare to other states for nursing assistant (cna)s?
California ranks #6 of 51 states, with a median 13% above the national median of $42,260.
What do entry-level nursing assistant (cna)s earn in California?
Entry-level pay typically falls near the 10th–25th percentile: $40,110–$45,850 per year ($19.28–$22.04/hr) in California.