Yes, becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is an excellent career choice for many people, especially if you enjoy helping others, want to enter healthcare quickly, and value job stability.
Pros of Being a CNA:
- Fast entry: Most CNA programs take only 4–12 weeks to complete and cost $500–$2,000 (often reimbursed by employers).
- High demand: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 4–8% job growth for nursing assistants through 2032, faster than average, with over 200,000 openings yearly due to aging population and turnover.
- Job security & flexibility: Hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and assisted living facilities hire CNAs 24/7, offering full-time, part-time, per diem, night, weekend, and travel opportunities.
- Stepping stone: Many CNAs get tuition reimbursement to become LPNs or RNs. Over 60% of RNs started as CNAs or in similar roles.
- Meaningful work: You directly improve patients’ daily lives helping with bathing, feeding, mobility, and emotional support which many find deeply rewarding. Average U.S. salary in 2024–2025 is $35,000–$42,000/year ($17–$20/hour), higher in California, Alaska, New York, and union facilities (up to $25+/hour).
Cons to Consider:
- Physically and emotionally demanding (lifting patients, dealing with illness/death, occasional difficult residents).
- Lower pay compared to licensed nurses.
- Can involve messy tasks (incontinence care, cleaning, etc.).
- Shift work and staffing shortages can lead to mandatory overtime.
Who thrives as a CNA? People who are compassionate, patient, strong (physically and mentally), and good team players usually love it. If you want a stable, respected healthcare job you can start in weeks instead of years, and you’re okay with people rather than sitting at a desk, CNA is often described as one of the best entry-level healthcare careers available today.