Nursing Assistant (CNA) pay in California
State median
Public data$21.72/hr
≈ $45,178/year full-time
Pay distribution in California
25th percentile
$19.20
per hour
Median
$21.72
per hour
75th percentile
$23.35
per hour
Source: BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics (BLS May 2023) · bls.gov/oes
Metros in California
- San Jose$23.54/hr median
- San Francisco$23.18/hr median
- Los Angeles$20.28/hr median
- San Diego$19.92/hr median
- Sacramento$19.56/hr median
Frequently asked questions
How much do nursing assistant (cna)s make in California?
The median pay for nursing assistant (cna)s in California is $21.72/hr (about $45,178/year full-time), according to BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics (May 2023). Half earn more, half earn less. The middle 50% fall between $19.20 and $23.35 per hour.
How does California compare to the national average for nursing assistant (cna)s?
California pays 20% above the national median of $18.11/hr for nursing assistant (cna)s. Cost of living, union density, and demand all move state pay relative to the national figure.
Where in California do nursing assistant (cna)s earn the most?
Among the metros we track in California, San Jose pays the most at $23.54/hr median. Compare each metro on the city pages linked below.