Career Guide for Nursing Assistants in Bellevue, NE

If you're a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) looking for a stable, affordable career in the Midwest, Bellevue, Nebraska deserves a serious look. Bellevue isn't just a quiet suburb of Omaha; it's a city with deep roots, a robust healthcare sector, and a cost of living that makes a modest salary stretch surprisingly far. This guide is for the pragmatic CNA—the one who wants to know exactly what the paychecks look like, where the jobs actually are, and what life feels like on a daily basis.

Bellevue is home to Offutt Air Force Base, which brings a steady stream of military families and retirees, directly fueling demand for skilled nursing care. The city's population of 64,355 supports a healthcare ecosystem anchored by major hospital systems and a network of long-term care facilities. For a CNA, this means a steady job market, though it's not a sprawling metropolis like Omaha. The key is understanding the local landscape, from the specific employers to the neighborhoods where you can live without breaking the bank.

The Salary Picture: Where Bellevue Stands

Let's get straight to the numbers. For a Nursing Assistant in Bellevue, the data paints a clear picture of modest but stable compensation. The median salary is $34,955/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $16.81/hour. To put this in perspective, the national average for CNAs sits at $35,760/year. Bellevue's median is slightly below the national figure, but this is typical for the Midwest and is offset by a significantly lower cost of living.

The job market for CNAs in the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area, which includes Bellevue, shows moderate activity. There are approximately 128 jobs listed for Nursing Assistants in the metro at any given time. Over the next decade, the field is projected to grow by 4%, which is in line with the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an aging population and ongoing healthcare needs, ensuring that CNAs remain in demand.

Experience is the biggest factor in your earning potential. While the median is a solid starting point, your pay will climb as you gain skills and tenure. The table below breaks down what you can expect at different career stages in the Bellevue area.

Experience-Level Salary Breakdown

Career Stage	Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary
Entry-Level CNA	0-1 year	$29,000 - $32,000
Mid-Level CNA	2-5 years	$33,000 - $37,000
Senior CNA	5-10 years	$37,000 - $41,000
Expert/Lead CNA	10+ years	$41,000 - $45,000+

Note: These are estimates based on local job postings and regional data. Specializations (like geriatrics or pediatric care) and shift differentials (evenings, nights, weekends) can push these numbers higher.

Comparison to Other Nebraska Cities

How does Bellevue stack up against other cities in the state? For a CNA, the trade-off is often between a higher salary and a much higher cost of living.

City	Median CNA Salary	Average 1BR Rent	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)
Bellevue	$34,955	$878	92.5
Omaha	$35,800	$1,050	94.8
Lincoln	$35,500	$980	93.1
Grand Island	$33,200	$790	88.2

Insider Tip: While Omaha's median salary is slightly higher, the rent is nearly $200 more per month. For a CNA valuing a shorter commute and a quieter home base, Bellevue offers the best balance of income and affordability in the metro area.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A salary of $34,955 feels different once taxes and housing are accounted for. Let's break down a realistic monthly budget for a single CNA living in Bellevue. We'll assume a filing status of Single with one allowance, using the 2024 federal tax bracket for a rough estimate (state taxes in Nebraska are on a progressive scale; we'll factor in an average effective rate).

Monthly Budget Breakdown:

• Gross Monthly Income: $2,913 ($34,955 / 12)
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, State, FICA): ~$550/month
• Net Monthly Income: ~$2,363/month
• Average Rent (1BR): $878/month
• Rent as % of Net Income: 37%

Remaining for Utilities, Food, Transport, Savings: $1,485/month

This budget is tight but workable. With careful spending, a CNA can cover all essentials, contribute to a small emergency fund, and still have money for modest entertainment. The key is that $878 rent is a manageable portion of the income.

Can they afford to buy a home? It's challenging but not impossible. The median home price in Bellevue is approximately $215,000. With an FHA loan (3.5% down), a CNA would need about $7,525 at closing. The monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would likely exceed $1,400, which is over 50% of the net income. This is generally considered unaffordable by standard lending guidelines. However, dual-income households or those with significant savings can make it work. Renting is the more realistic short-to-mid-term option for most single CNAs.

Where the Jobs Are: Bellevue's Major Employers

Bellevue's healthcare jobs are concentrated in a few key players, largely serving the local and military community. Hiring is steady, but turnover is low, so networking is crucial.

1. CHI Health Missouri Valley: This is the primary hospital system in the region, with Chi Health Clinic Bellevue being a major local employer. They hire CNAs for their inpatient floors and outpatient clinics. Hiring trends show a consistent need, especially for evening and weekend shifts.
2. Bellevue Medical Center (Avera): Part of the Avera Health system, this hospital is a key community resource. They often have openings for CNAs in their long-term care and skilled nursing units. They tend to offer structured career ladders for CNAs.
3. Offutt Air Force Base Clinic: As the base's medical clinic, this is a unique employer. CNAs here may work with active-duty personnel, retirees, and their families. A SECRET security clearance is often required, which can be a barrier but also a significant advantage if you qualify. Hiring is tied to federal job postings.
4. Brookdale Bellevue: A large assisted living and memory care community. This is a prime location for CNAs who prefer a less acute, more residential care environment. They have high turnover, meaning frequent openings.
5. The Waterford at Bellevue: A skilled nursing facility (SNF) specializing in long-term care and rehabilitation. SNFs are a cornerstone of the CNA job market, offering consistent hours and experience in chronic care management.
6. Private Home Health Agencies: Companies like Interim HealthCare and Comfort Keepers serve the Bellevue metro. These offer flexible, often part-time, hours and a chance to work one-on-one in clients' homes. This is a great option for CNAs who dislike hospital bureaucracy.

Insider Tip: Many Bellevue CNAs start their careers at a SNF like The Waterford to gain experience before moving to a hospital setting. The Offutt Clinic is a hidden gem—check USAJobs.gov regularly for openings, and prepare to wait for the clearance process.

Getting Licensed in NE

Nebraska's licensing process is straightforward but has specific steps. You cannot work as a CNA without being on the state's Nurse Aide Registry.

Requirements & Costs:

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: You must complete a minimum of 75 hours of training (this often includes classroom, lab, and clinical hours). In Bellevue, programs are offered at Metropolitan Community College (MCC) and local high schools. The cost typically ranges from $500 - $900, which may include books and uniforms.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After training, you must pass both a written (or oral) exam and a skills demonstration test. The exam fee is approximately $115.
3. Background Check: A fingerprint-based criminal history check is required, costing about $50.
4. Submit Application to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services: Once you pass the exam, the state will add you to the registry. This is usually handled by your training program.

Timeline to Get Started:

• Training Program: 4-8 weeks (full-time programs are faster).
• Scheduling & Taking Exams: 2-4 weeks after program completion.
• Registry Processing: 2-4 weeks after passing.
• Total Time: 2-3 months from start to being on the registry.

Key Resource: The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Nurse Aide Registry website is the official source for all requirements and approved programs. Always verify a program's status before enrolling.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Where you live affects your commute and quality of life. Bellevue's neighborhoods offer distinct vibes, all within a short drive of major employers.

1. Old Bellevue: The historic heart of the city, with charming older homes and walkable streets. You'll be close to main employers and local shops. Rent for a 1BR apartment or a small house is around $900-$1,100. Commute: 5-10 minutes to most employers. Best for: Those who want character and a short commute.
2. South Bellevue: A more suburban area with newer developments and family-friendly parks. This is where you'll find more modern apartment complexes. Rent is closer to the city average, $850-$950. Commute: 10-15 minutes to hospitals. Best for: CNAs with families or those wanting quieter, suburban living.
3. Offutt Area: The neighborhoods immediately surrounding the base. Housing is a mix of older military-style homes and apartments. Rent is competitive, often $800-$900. Commute: 5 minutes to the base clinic. Best for: CNAs working at Offutt or those who don't mind base traffic.
4. La Vista (Adjacent): While technically its own city, La Vista borders Bellevue and offers a similar cost of living. It has a strong retail and service economy, which can be good for a partner's job. Rent: $900-$1,000. Commute: 10-15 minutes to Bellevue employers. Best for: Those seeking a broader range of amenities and dining options.

Insider Tip: The rental market is competitive but not cutthroat. Start your search 60-90 days before your planned move. Many employers in healthcare know the local landlords and can sometimes point you toward openings.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The CNA role is a critical foundation, but it's rarely the end of the road. The experience you gain in Bellevue's healthcare settings is a direct pipeline to higher credentials.

Specialty Premiums & Advancement Paths:

• Certifications: While not a direct pay bump, specialties like Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA) or Phlebotomy can make you more competitive for certain roles.
• Bridge Programs: Many local employers, especially CHI Health and Avera, offer tuition assistance for CNAs pursuing LPN or RN degrees. This is the single most important advancement path.
• Lead CNA / Shift Supervisor: With 5+ years of experience, you can move into a lead role, managing other CNAs. This typically comes with a pay increase to $40,000+.
• Non-Clinical Roles: Experience can lead to positions in patient transport, unit secretary, or even medical equipment sales.

10-Year Outlook:
The 4% job growth is steady, not explosive. However, the real opportunity lies in the aging of the workforce. As current nurses and CNAs retire, there will be openings for those with experience to move into leadership and training roles. For the CNA who uses their time in Bellevue to earn an LPN or RN degree, the long-term earning potential in the Omaha metro area is strong, with RNs earning $70,000 - $85,000.

The Verdict: Is Bellevue Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Very Low Cost of Living: Your $34,955 salary goes much further here than in most U.S. cities.	Salary Ceiling: The median CNA salary is modest and slightly below the national average.
Stable, Predictable Job Market: With 128 jobs available and 4% growth, openings are consistent.	Limited Career Advancement: Without further education, growth is primarily into supervisory roles, not major pay jumps.
Short Commutes: Most CNAs live within 15 minutes of their workplace.	Limited Diversity of Employers: The market is dominated by a few large systems, which can create a "small pond" feeling.
Pathway to Advancement: Local employers are known for supporting tuition for nursing school.	Weather: Winters are cold and can be harsh, which may be a downside for those from warmer climates.
Quiet, Family-Friendly Vibe: Less crime and congestion than a major metro.	Cultural and Entertainment Options: While Omaha is close, Bellevue itself is not a cultural hub.

Final Recommendation:
Bellevue, NE is an excellent choice for the pragmatic, financially-minded CNA. It is ideal for those who are early in their career and want to gain solid experience while saving money for further education. It's also a great fit for CNAs who value a slower pace of life and a short commute over a high-energy, high-cost city. If your ultimate goal is to become an RN with minimal debt, Bellevue's combination of affordable living and supportive employers is a strategic win. For CNAs seeking a high salary or a dynamic, large-city environment, a bigger metro like Omaha or a coastal city would be a better fit.

FAQs

1. How competitive is the job market for CNAs in Bellevue?
It's moderately competitive. With 128 jobs in the metro, there are openings, but you're competing with a local pool of candidates. Having your Nebraska license and being willing to work off-shifts (evenings, nights, weekends) will give you a significant advantage. Apply directly on employer websites, not just job boards.

2. Is it worth it to get my CNA license in Nebraska if I'm already certified in another state?
Generally, yes. Nebraska is not a compact state for CNAs. You will need to apply for reciprocity through the Nebraska DHHS. The process varies by state but typically requires proof of your current certification and may involve a competency evaluation. It's best to contact the Nebraska Nurse Aide Registry directly to start the process.

3. What is the cost of living really like on a CNA salary?
It's manageable if you budget carefully. With a net income of around $2,363/month and average rent of $878, you have $1,485 for all other expenses. This covers utilities (~$150), groceries ($300-$400), a reliable used car payment/insurance ($400), and leaves about $500-$600 for everything else. It's not luxurious, but it's sustainable.

4. What's the best way to get hired at the Offutt Air Force Base Clinic?
The hiring process is federal. You must search for "Nursing Assistant" positions on USAJobs.gov. The posting will specify if a clearance is required. You can't start the clearance process yourself; it's initiated by the hiring agency upon a tentative job offer. Be patient, as the federal hiring timeline is often longer than private sector.

5. Are there opportunities for overtime or extra shifts?
Yes, absolutely. Healthcare in Bellevue, like everywhere, relies on overtime. CNAs who are flexible and reliable are often offered extra shifts, especially during flu season or staff shortages. This can be a crucial way to boost your income beyond the $16.81/hour base rate.