The Complete Career Guide for Nursing Assistants in Aberdeen, South Dakota

As a career analyst who’s spent time in Aberdeen, I can tell you this is a city built on practicality. It’s not flashy, but the healthcare sector is a steady, reliable engine. If you’re a CNA looking for a place where your skills are in demand, you can manage your expenses, and you understand the value of a quiet community, Aberdeen deserves a serious look. This guide breaks down the reality of being a CNA here—no fluff, just the data and the local insight you need to make a decision.

The Salary Picture: Where Aberdeen Stands

Let’s start with the numbers that matter. In Aberdeen, the financial reality for a Nursing Assistant is straightforward. The median salary for a CNA is $34,633 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $16.65. This is slightly below the national average for CNAs, which sits at $35,760/year.

It’s important to understand what these numbers mean. Aberdeen’s economy is lower-cost, and healthcare wages reflect that. The key is that $16.65/hour goes significantly further here than in a larger metro area. The city isn’t a place for getting rich quickly in this role, but it is a place for building a stable life on a reliable income.

To give you a clearer picture, here’s how experience typically translates to pay in the Aberdeen market:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Estimated Hourly Rate
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$30,000 - $33,000	$14.40 - $15.85
Mid-Career (2-5 years)	$34,000 - $37,000	$16.35 - $17.75
Senior/Lead (5-10 years)	$37,000 - $40,000	$17.75 - $19.20
Expert/Specialized (10+ years)	$40,000 - $44,000+	$19.20 - $21.15+

Note: These are market estimates based on Aberdeen job postings and BLS data trends. Specialized roles (e.g., dialysis, psychiatric) can command higher premiums.

Compared to other South Dakota cities, Aberdeen offers a balanced position. Sioux Falls, the state’s largest metro, has higher wages (median closer to $37,000+) but also significantly higher rent and living costs. Rapid City and Brookings are similar to Aberdeen in scale and cost. The trade-off is clear: you might earn a bit more in Sioux Falls, but you’ll spend more on housing and commuting. In Aberdeen, the math is simpler and often more favorable for a single-income household.

Insider Tip: Don’t just look at the base pay. Ask about shift differentials for nights, weekends, and holidays. These can add $1.50 to $2.50/hour to your base rate, which makes a real difference over a year.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $34,633 means your take-home pay after federal and state taxes (assuming single filer, standard deduction) will be roughly $27,500 - $28,000 annually, or about $2,290 - $2,330 per month. This is a ballpark figure, and your actual take-home will vary, but it’s a solid baseline for planning.

Let’s build a monthly budget for a CNA earning the median salary:

• Gross Monthly Income: $2,886
• Estimated Take-Home Pay: $2,300
• Rent (1BR Average): -$760
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet): -$150
• Groceries: -$275
• Car Payment/Insurance/Gas: -$350
• Health Insurance (if not fully covered by employer): -$150
• Phone Bill: -$50
• Personal/Entertainment: -$100
• Savings/Emergency Fund: -$465

Monthly Surplus: $0

This budget is tight but manageable. The key is that $760/month average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is the cornerstone of affordability. You won’t find that in a major coastal city. The Cost of Living Index for Aberdeen is 89.5 (US average = 100), meaning everything from groceries to gas is about 10-11% cheaper than the national average. This low index is what makes the salary work.

Can You Afford to Buy a Home?
Yes, and this is a significant advantage. With a monthly surplus of nearly $500 (if you can trim discretionary spending), you can save $6,000 per year for a down payment. The median home price in the Aberdeen area is approximately $180,000 - $200,000. A standard FHA loan (3.5% down) would require $6,300 - $7,000. At the current savings rate, a CNA could realistically save for a down payment in 12-14 months. Homeownership is a very attainable goal here.

Where the Jobs Are: Aberdeen's Major Employers

Aberdeen’s healthcare sector is anchored by a few major players, with a consistent demand for CNAs. The metro area has approximately 56 open CNA positions at any given time, and the 10-year job growth projection is 4%—slow but steady, reflecting a stable, aging population.

Here are the primary employers you should target:

1. Avera St. Luke’s Hospital: The city’s flagship hospital. They are the largest employer of CNAs in the area, with openings in Med/Surg, Skilled Nursing, and Hospice. Avera often offers strong benefits and tuition reimbursement for further education. Hiring is continuous, but they prioritize candidates with reliable attendance.

2. Aberdeen Health and Rehab (Part of the Avera System): A major long-term care and skilled nursing facility. This is where you’ll find the highest volume of CNA jobs. The work is demanding but offers great experience. They frequently hire in batches after state certification exams.

3. Angelhaus: A locally owned, highly regarded senior living community. It’s smaller than the hospital but known for a better staff-to-resident ratio and a more personal feel. They look for CNAs who value community and long-term relationships with residents.

4. Primrose Retirement Communities: Another senior living option on the north side of town. Primrose focuses on assisted living and memory care. Positions here often involve more social engagement and activity assistance compared to pure clinical care.

5. Local Family Clinics & Private Practices: Smaller clinics like Aberdeen Family Clinic or Brown Clinic sometimes hire CNAs for front desk, patient intake, or basic clinical support. These are less frequent but offer a 9-to-5 schedule away from hospital shift work.

Hiring Trend: The market favors CNAs with a clean record, a professional demeanor, and reliability. Most employers use online portals; applying in person is less common. However, showing up at a facility to ask about the application process can still make a positive impression in a community like Aberdeen.

Getting Licensed in SD

South Dakota’s licensing process is managed by the South Dakota Department of Health. The path is clear and relatively fast.

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: You must complete a minimum 75-hour CNA training program. In Aberdeen, these are offered at:

   • Presentation College: The local college offers a CNA certificate program. It’s a reliable, in-person option.
   • Avera St. Luke’s Hospital: They often run their own training programs for hires.
   • South Dakota State University (online theory, local clinicals): For those who need a hybrid schedule.

2. Cost: Training costs vary. Community-based programs (like at the hospital) may be free if you commit to working for them for a set period (e.g., 6-12 months). College programs can cost $500 - $1,200. Check for scholarships or workforce grants through South Dakota’s Job Service.

3. Pass the Competency Exam: After training, you must pass a state competency exam (written and skills test). The exam fee is approximately $125.

4. Apply for Certification: Submit your application to the SD Department of Health. The fee is $50. Once approved, you are placed on the state registry.

Timeline: From start to finish, if you enroll in a program immediately, you can be a certified CNA in 3 to 6 months.

Insider Tip: Many employers in Aberdeen will hire you as a trainee while you complete your certification, especially if you have a compassionate personality and strong references. Ask about “CNA-in-training” positions during interviews.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CAs)

Living in Aberdeen means choosing a neighborhood that fits your commute and lifestyle. The city is small, so commutes are short, but each area has a distinct feel.

1. Central Aberdeen / Downtown: Best for walkability and an older, established feel. You’re close to restaurants, the library, and the Aberdeen Downtown Association events. Commute to Avera St. Luke’s is under 5 minutes.

   • Rent Estimate: $650 - $800/month for a 1BR.

2. West Side / Near Aberdeen Central High School: A popular residential area with many older, well-maintained homes and apartment complexes. It’s family-friendly and quiet. Commute to most healthcare facilities is 5-10 minutes.

   • Rent Estimate: $700 - $850/month.

3. North Side / Near Primrose Retirement: Newer developments and subdivisions. This is the fastest-growing part of the city. If you want modern amenities and newer apartments, this is your spot. Commute is easy via Highway 12.

   • Rent Estimate: $750 - $900/month.

4. South Side / Near Angelhaus: A mix of residential and light commercial. Good value in terms of rent, with a straightforward commute to Angelhaus and Avera St. Luke’s via South Dakota Street.

   • Rent Estimate: $600 - $750/month.

5. East Side / Near the Mall Area: Convenient for shopping and access to Highway 12. Offers a range of apartment options. Commute to the hospital is about 10 minutes.

   • Rent Estimate: $675 - $825/month.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A CNA in Aberdeen has a clear path for advancement, though it requires additional education.

• Specialty Premiums: The highest-paying CNA roles are in dialysis (at Avera St. Luke’s or a satellite clinic) and hospice. These roles can add a $2,000 - $4,000 annual premium. Psychiatric tech roles are rare but pay well.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Medication Aide: After 6-12 months of experience, you can take a course to become a Certified Medication Aide (CMA). This allows you to administer routine medications and typically comes with a $1.50 - $2.00/hour raise.
  2. Lead CNA / Charge Aide: Senior CNAs who show leadership can be promoted to oversee shifts and train new hires.
  3. Bridge to LPN/RN: This is the most common and valuable path. Local employers like Avera offer significant tuition assistance. With a CNA salary and low living costs, you can work part-time while attending Presentation College or South Dakota State University’s nursing program (often online for theory). An LPN in Aberdeen earns $45,000 - $55,000; an RN earns $65,000 - $80,000.

10-Year Outlook: With the 4% job growth and an aging population, demand for CNAs will remain stable. The real growth is for CNAs who upskill. The healthcare system in Aberdeen is consolidating (Avera dominates), so having a strong reputation and good standing with Avera is key to long-term career mobility.

The Verdict: Is Aberdeen Right for You?

This table summarizes the core trade-offs of being a CNA in Aberdeen.

Pros	Cons
Very low cost of living (Rent $760, COL Index 89.5)	Lower median salary ($34,633) vs. national average
Attainable homeownership	Limited nightlife & cultural scene (small metro population of 28,297)
Stable job market with major employers	Weather – harsh, windy winters and hot, humid summers
Short, easy commutes (5-15 minutes)	Career advancement requires more education (LPN/RN bridge)
Community feel – easy to know people	Fewer specialty CNA roles compared to larger cities
Strong employer benefits (Avera is a large system)	Car dependency – public transit is limited

Final Recommendation:
Aberdeen is an excellent choice for a CNA who values financial stability, homeownership, and a quiet community over high-paced city life. It is ideal for someone planning to work for 2-3 years, save aggressively, and use that foundation to pay for LPN or RN school. If you are a new CNA looking for your first job, the experience gained at Avera St. Luke’s or Aberdeen Health and Rehab is highly valued and will serve you well anywhere. However, if you crave the energy of a large city, diverse food scenes, and a vast array of entertainment options, Aberdeen will feel too small. It’s a pragmatic place for a pragmatic career.

FAQs

Q: What is the job market like for new CNAs in Aberdeen?
A: It’s very active. The major employers (Avera, Angelhaus, Primrose) are often hiring. Having your SD certification completed makes you a top candidate. If you’re not yet certified, look for “CNA trainee” positions.

Q: How competitive are CNA jobs at Avera St. Luke’s?
A: They are competitive due to the benefits and pay scale. However, the high turnover in healthcare means there are regular openings. The key is a clean background check, a professional interview, and demonstrating reliability.

Q: Can I live without a car in Aberdeen?
A: It is very difficult. While the downtown is walkable, most healthcare facilities and residential areas are spread out. Public transit exists but is limited. You will need a reliable car for work, especially for winter shifts.

Q: Are there opportunities for overtime?
A: Yes, especially at the hospital and nursing homes. Overtime is often available on weekends and during flu season. Some CNAs regularly work 48-50 hours a week to boost their income.

Q: What’s the biggest surprise for a CNA moving to Aberdeen from a bigger city?
A: The sense of community. You’ll likely know your coworkers outside of work, and the pace is less frantic. The biggest adjustment, for many, is the isolation and the weather—you need to be prepared for long winters.