Being a nursing assistant is an entry opportunity to the medical profession.  As such, the pay is low, the work is hard and there is a lot of turnover since CNAs leave the profession due to completion of schooling, movement to a non-patient care position, or quitting the job.  These factors, as well as the overall increase in the need for medical professionals, create a high growth rate for CNA jobs.  The U.S. Department of Labor estimates CNA jobs will grow at a rate faster than average over the next ten years, with jobs in home health growing the fastest.   

The median income for CNAs was $9.59 per hour in 2002.  The per hour range was $6.98 to $13.54 based on geographic location and work experience.  Contract CNAs made the most money, while long term facility CNAs made the least on average at $8.98.

CNAs may make more money through private contracts or working nights and weekends.  Many CNA positions are part time or on call positions.  Some hospital positions offer healthcare benefits and tuition reimbursement programs.