The Akron CNA Career Guide: A Local's Perspective

If you're considering moving to Akron or you're already here and thinking about a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), you're looking at a stable, in-demand profession in a city with a reasonable cost of living. Akron isn't just the "Rubber City" of the past; it's a healthcare hub in Northeast Ohio, anchored by major medical systems and a growing community of care facilities. This guide cuts through the fluff and gives you the real data, the local names, and the insider tips you need to build a career here.

As a local, I've watched the healthcare sector evolve. The jobs are here, but so is competition. Understanding the local landscape—from the hospitals on the hill to the suburbs where you might actually afford an apartment—is key. Let's break down what a CNA career looks like in Akron, using hard numbers and local knowledge.

The Salary Picture: Where Akron Stands

Let's get straight to the numbers. According to local labor data and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for a Nursing Assistant in the Akron metro area is $34,987 per year. This translates to an hourly rate of $16.82. It's important to understand that this is a median—half of all CNAs earn more, and half earn less. Your actual pay will depend heavily on your experience, the specific shift you work (nights and weekends often pay more), and the type of facility you're in.

For context, the national average salary for this role is $35,760, meaning Akron is slightly below the national curve. However, this gap is largely offset by the lower cost of living. The Akron metro area has a population of 188,692, and there are approximately 377 jobs for CNAs in the metro at any given time, with a 10-year job growth projection of 4%. This indicates steady, if not explosive, demand. It's a reliable field, not a gold rush.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Here’s how salary typically breaks down by experience level in the Akron area. These are estimates based on local job postings and industry reports, reflecting the reality on the ground.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Factors in Akron
Entry-Level (0-1 years)	$30,000 - $33,000	Starting pay at most major hospitals and nursing homes. Often includes shift differentials for evenings/nights.
Mid-Level (2-5 years)	$34,000 - $38,000	This is near the median. With solid experience, you can negotiate for higher starting wages, especially at facilities like Summa Health or Cleveland Clinic Akron General.
Senior (5-10 years)	$38,000 - $42,000+	Specialized roles (e.g., dialysis, hospice) or lead CNA positions. Experience at a prestigious hospital system is highly valued.
Expert/Charge CNA (10+ years)	$42,000 - $48,000+	Often involves supervisory duties, training new hires, or working in specialized units. These roles are competitive and favor internal promotions.

Comparison to Other Ohio Cities

How does Akron stack up against other Ohio metros? While Akron's cost of living is a major advantage, some cities offer higher nominal wages.

City	Median Annual Salary (Approx.)	Cost of Living Index (US Avg = 100)
Akron	$34,987	92.8
Cleveland	$36,500	94.5
Columbus	$37,200	97.5
Cincinnati	$36,900	96.2
Dayton	$34,200	91.5

Insider Tip: While Columbus and Cleveland offer slightly higher pay, the rent and overall living expenses in those larger cities are also higher. For a CNA with a median salary of $34,987, Akron often provides the best balance of earning potential and affordable living in Northeast Ohio.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A $34,987 annual salary sounds like one number, but what does it mean for your monthly budget? Let's break it down using Akron's specific numbers.

First, the take-home pay. After federal taxes, state taxes (Ohio has a progressive income tax), Social Security, and Medicare, your estimated monthly take-home would be approximately $2,250 - $2,350. This is a rough estimate; use an online paycheck calculator for the most precise figure based on your personal W-4.

Now, for housing. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Akron is $816 per month. This is a citywide average; prices vary by neighborhood (more on that later).

Monthly Budget Breakdown for an Akron CNA

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Income	$2,915	$34,987 / 12
Net Monthly Income (Take-Home)	$2,300	Est. after taxes
Rent (1BR Average)	$816	Can be lower in suburbs, higher in trendy areas.
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water)	$150 - $200	Varies by season; higher in winter with heating.
Groceries	$300 - $400	For a single person.
Car Payment/Insurance/Gas	$300 - $500	Essential in Akron; public transit is limited.
Health Insurance (if not employer-provided)	$150 - $300	If you need to purchase on the marketplace.
Miscellaneous (Phone, Personal, etc.)	$200 - $300
Total Estimated Expenses	$1,916 - $2,516
Potential Monthly Savings	$0 - $384	Highly dependent on lifestyle and debt.

Can they afford to buy a home? It's tight but possible. Akron's median home price is around $140,000 - $160,000. With a $34,987 salary, you'd be at the upper limit of affordability for a conventional loan. However, Ohio offers excellent first-time homebuyer programs (like Ohio Housing Finance Agency loans) with lower down payments. Saving for a down payment would require strict budgeting, likely with a dual-income household. For a single CNA, renting is the more realistic and financially prudent choice, especially in the early career years.

Where the Jobs Are: Akron's Major Employers

Akron's healthcare job market is dominated by a few major systems. Knowing these names is your first step. Here are the primary places to look:

1. Cleveland Clinic Akron General: Located in the heart of Akron, this is a top-tier employer. They have a constant need for CNAs in their main hospital, as well as in their outpatient clinics and their affiliated nursing homes. They are known for strong benefits and professional development opportunities. Hiring trends show a preference for candidates with electronic health record (EHR) experience, like Epic.

2. Summa Health: With its main campus in downtown Akron and facilities across the region, Summa is another major player. They operate hospitals, a large network of primary care offices, and long-term care facilities. They often have seasonal hiring pushes, especially before winter. Insider Tip: Check their careers page directly and set up job alerts. Their HR system can be slow, so persistence pays off.

3. University Hospitals (UH) Portage Medical Center: While the main campus is in Ravenna (just east of Akron), it serves the broader Akron metro. This is a key employer for those willing to commute. UH is part of a larger system, offering potential for internal transfer to other hospitals in Cleveland if you're looking for upward mobility.

4. Akron Children's Hospital: If you're interested in pediatrics, this is the place. It's a nationally recognized children's hospital with a dedicated pediatric CNA role. The hiring process is competitive, and they often look for candidates with prior experience or a clear passion for pediatric care.

5. Local Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities: Don't overlook the many skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). Companies like Amberwood Nursing Home, Stow-Glen Retirement Village, and The Springfielder are always in need of reliable CNAs. These often have more flexible schedules and can be a great place to build experience, though the pay may be slightly lower than major hospitals.

6. Home Health Agencies: Companies like Interim HealthCare and AccentCare serve patients in their homes. This offers a different pace and more one-on-one care. Schedules can be more variable, but it's a growing sector, especially as the population ages.

Hiring Trends: The demand is stable. The 4% growth is real. The post-pandemic era has seen increased focus on infection control and mental health support for staff. Highlighting these skills in your interview can set you apart.

Getting Licensed in OH

You cannot work as a CNA in Ohio without being listed on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry. The process is straightforward but requires specific steps.

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: You must complete a minimum of 120 hours of training, which includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice. In Akron, you can find these programs at:

   • Akron Public Schools Adult Education
   • Stark State College (has a campus in nearby Green)
   • Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) (some classes accessible from Akron)
   • Various private career schools (do your research to ensure they are state-approved).

2. Cost: The cost for a CNA program in Ohio typically ranges from $600 to $1,200. Some employers, particularly nursing homes, will offer tuition reimbursement or even pay for your training if you commit to working for them for a set period (often 6-12 months). This is a major local opportunity worth exploring.

3. Pass the Competency Exam: After completing your training, you must pass a written (or oral) exam and a skills evaluation. The exam is administered by Credentia, the state's contracted testing service. The fee is approximately $100-$150.

4. Apply for State Listing: Once you pass, your training provider will submit your information to the Ohio Department of Health to get you listed on the registry.

Timeline: From start to finish, if you enroll full-time, you can become a CNA in about 4-8 weeks. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. Once certified, your registration is good for 24 months, after which you must have worked for pay for at least 8 hours in a nursing-related role to renew.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Where you live affects your commute, budget, and lifestyle. Here are 4-5 neighborhoods that are popular with healthcare workers in Akron, with estimated rent for a 1B1B apartment.

1. Cuyahoga Falls (Suburban, Family-Friendly): Just north of Akron. A 15-20 minute commute to Akron hospitals. Safer, with good parks and a nice downtown (Front Street). This is where many nurses and CNAs set down roots.

   • Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,100/month

2. West Akron / Fairlawn (Convenient & Established): Home to Summa Health's main campus and close to shopping centers. A mix of older homes and apartment complexes. Easy access to I-77 for commuting to other employers.

   • Rent Estimate: $800 - $1,000/month

3. Downtown Akron (Urban & Walkable): If you work at Cleveland Clinic Akron General, you could walk to work. It's revitalizing, with restaurants, bars, and events. It's pricier for rent, but you might save on a car payment. Best for young professionals without kids.

   • Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,300/month

4. Ellet (East Side, Affordable): A blue-collar neighborhood with a strong community feel. It's a short drive to University Hospitals Portage and the Akron Children's Hospital east campus. Rents are very reasonable here.

   • Rent Estimate: $700 - $900/month

5. Montrose (Near the Airport): A commercial hub with many chain apartments. Commutes to the main hospital campuses are about 20-25 minutes. It's not "charming," but it's affordable, with easy access to shopping and I-77.

   • Rent Estimate: $750 - $950/month

Insider Tip: Traffic in Akron is generally not a major issue, but the rush hour on I-77 and I-76 can add 10-15 minutes to your commute. Living within 10-15 minutes of your workplace is a huge quality-of-life benefit, especially for 12-hour shifts.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A CNA role is a fantastic launchpad, not a dead end. In Akron, the paths for growth are clear.

• Specialty Premiums: You can earn more by specializing. CNAs in dialysis or hospice often make $2-$4 more per hour than general medical/surgical CNAs. Experience in telemetry or rehabilitation is also valued. Look for these roles at Summa and Cleveland Clinic.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Charge CNA / Mentor: Take on leadership duties for a small pay bump.
  2. Medication Aide (QMA): With additional training (about 80 hours), you can pass certain medications. This comes with a significant pay increase and more responsibility.
  3. LPN/RN Bridge Programs: This is the most common path. Major employers like Summa and Cleveland Clinic offer robust tuition assistance programs to help you become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN). Akron's best-kept secret: Many hospitals will pay for 100% of your tuition if you agree to work for them for a set period after graduation. This is the single best career move a CNA in Akron can make.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 4% job growth is steady. The real growth will come from the aging population and the expansion of home health and long-term care. The financial ceiling for a CNA is around $48,000 without additional credentials. With an LPN or RN license, your earning potential in Akron jumps to $55,000 - $85,000+.

The Verdict: Is Akron Right for You?

Akron offers a solid, stable foundation for a CNA career. It's not the place for someone seeking the highest possible salary, but for someone who values a good work-life balance, a low cost of living, and clear paths for advancement, it's an excellent choice.

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $34,987 salary goes further here than in most major metros.	Below-National-Average Pay: The median is slightly below the US figure.
Stable Job Market: Major hospital systems provide reliable employment with good benefits.	Limited Public Transit: A car is a near-necessity.
Excellent Tuition Benefits: Major employers will pay for your LPN/RN education.	Winters Can Be Harsh: Snow and cold from November to March.
Central Location: Easy access to Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and Columbus for weekend trips.	"Rust Belt" Feel: Some areas are still rebuilding; it's not a glossy, modern city.
Manageable Commutes: You can live affordably and still be 15 minutes from work.	Limited Nightlife/Scene: Compared to Columbus or Cleveland, the social scene is smaller.

Final Recommendation: Akron is a strong "YES" for the right person. You should move to Akron if you prioritize long-term financial stability (through home ownership and tuition benefits) over a high starting salary. It's for the pragmatic, career-focused individual who sees a CNA role as a stepping stone. If you're looking for a bustling, high-energy city with a vibrant nightlife and the highest possible wages, you might prefer Columbus or Cleveland. But for building a life and a career without being crushed by debt, Akron is a hidden gem.

FAQs

1. Is the cost of living in Akron really that low?
Yes. The Cost of Living Index of 92.8 means everything from groceries to utilities is about 7-8% cheaper than the national average. The biggest savings come from housing, where the average 1BR rent of $816 is significantly below the US average.

2. What are the "hidden" costs of being a CNA in Akron?
Your biggest non-salary cost will be transportation. A reliable car, insurance, and gas are essential. You'll also need to budget for continuing education to maintain your certification and for professional attire (scrubs, shoes). Some employers provide scrubs, but many don't.

3. How competitive is the job market with only 377 jobs?
The 377 jobs figure is a snapshot of current openings, not total employment. The field is stable with high turnover, meaning openings are constant. The 4% growth