May 2025 BLS data
Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Illinois
The median nursing assistant (cna) in Illinois earns $45,960/year ($22.10/hr) — 9% above the national median.
Median pay
$45,960/yr
Hourly median
$22.10/hr
State rank
#15 of 51
Employed
68,640
Nursing Assistant (CNA) pay percentiles in Illinois
| Percentile | Hourly | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $18.07 | $37,590 |
| 25th percentile | $18.95 | $39,420 |
| Median (50th) | $22.10 | $45,960 |
| 75th percentile | $23.26 | $48,380 |
| 90th percentile | $25.99 | $54,050 |
The spread is large: top-decile nursing assistant (cna)s in Illinois out-earn the bottom decile by $7.92/hour — experience, certifications, and setting drive most of that gap.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025.
Where do you fall on this curve?
Enter your pay to see your exact percentile among Illinois nursing assistant (cna)s — free, and your salary never leaves your browser.
Free salary check
What do people in your role actually earn?
Nursing Assistant (CNA)s in Illinois earn
$18.07–$25.99 /hour
Median $45,960/year · 68,640 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
Want to move up this curve?
Use the checker above to unlock a raise plan for your experience level — or explore courses that raise earning power and the free workplace fit quiz.
Nursing Assistant (CNA) salaries in every stateFrequently asked questions
How much does a nursing assistant (cna) make in Illinois?
The median nursing assistant (cna) in Illinois earns $45,960 per year, or $22.10 per hour, according to May 2025 BLS data. Most earn between $37,590 (10th percentile) and $54,050 (90th percentile).
What is a good nursing assistant (cna) salary in Illinois?
Top-quartile nursing assistant (cna)s in Illinois earn $48,380 or more per year ($23.26/hr). Reaching that range typically comes from experience, certifications, and higher-paying settings.
How does Illinois compare to other states for nursing assistant (cna)s?
Illinois ranks #15 of 51 states, with a median 9% above the national median of $42,260.
What do entry-level nursing assistant (cna)s earn in Illinois?
Entry-level pay typically falls near the 10th–25th percentile: $37,590–$39,420 per year ($18.07–$18.95/hr) in Illinois.