Career Guide for Nursing Assistants (CNAs) in Bennington, Vermont

Bennington isn't the first place most people think of for a nursing career. It's not Burlington or Montpelier. It's a quiet, historic town tucked into the southwest corner of Vermont, with a population of just 8,888 in the immediate metro area. But if you're a CNA looking for a stable job, a lower cost of living compared to major metros, and a tight-knit community, Bennington deserves a serious look.

I've spent enough time in Bennington to know the rhythm of the town. The nurses I know there are deeply respected, and the healthcare system, while smaller than in larger cities, is the backbone of the local economy. This guide is for you—the CNA who wants the real picture, not the brochure version.

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The Salary Picture: Where Bennington CDP Stands

Let's get straight to the numbers. As a CNA in Bennington, you're looking at a median salary of $36,564/year, which breaks down to about $17.58/hour. This is slightly above the national average for CNAs, which sits at $35,760/year.

The job market here is small but consistent. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data for the Bennington County area, there are approximately 17 jobs available in the metro area for CNAs at any given time. The 10-year job growth is projected at 4%, which is modest but steady, aligning with the aging population trend in rural Vermont.

Experience-Level Breakdown

While the median is a good baseline, your actual pay will vary with experience. Here’s a realistic breakdown for the Bennington area:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Bennington CDP)	Key Factors
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$32,000 - $35,000	Starting pay at local nursing homes or home health. Often includes shift differentials for nights/weekends.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$36,500 - $41,000	This is where the median $36,564 sits. Specialized skills (dementia care, phlebotomy) can push you higher.
Senior-Level (8-15 years)	$41,000 - $46,000	Often leads to Charge CNA or Team Lead roles. High demand in Bennington's long-term care facilities.
Expert/Lead (15+ years)	$46,000+	Typically in supervisory or educational roles (training new CNAs). Limited positions, but prized.

Comparison to Other VT Cities

Bennington's salary is competitive for its size. It won't match Burlington's higher cost of living, but it's on par with similar-sized Vermont communities.

City	Median CNA Salary (VT)	Cost of Living Index (US Avg = 100)	Job Market Size
Bennington CDP	$36,564	107.5	Small (17 jobs)
Burlington (Metro)	~$39,000	~115	Large (100+ jobs)
Rutland	~$35,000	~104	Medium
Montpelier (Metro)	~$37,500	~108	Small-Medium

Insider Tip: The $36,564 median is a solid starting point. However, many CNAs in Bennington boost their annual income by picking up extra shifts, especially at the two major nursing homes, which often pay a premium for weekend and holiday coverage.

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The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A salary is just a number. What matters is what's left after the state takes its share and you pay your rent. Vermont has a progressive income tax, and Bennington's cost of living is about 7.5% higher than the national average.

Let's break down a monthly budget for a CNA earning the median $36,564/year.

Estimated Monthly Take-Home Pay:

• Gross Monthly Income: $3,047
• Estimated Net (After Taxes & Deductions): ~$2,350
  • This includes federal tax, Vermont state tax (3.35% to 8.75% brackets), Social Security, Medicare, and a basic health insurance premium.

Monthly Expenses:

• Rent (1BR Average): $1,343
• Utilities (Electric, Heat, Internet): ~$200
• Car Insurance & Gas (Essential in Bennington): ~$300
• Groceries: ~$350
• Health Insurance Co-Pays/Misc: ~$150
• Total Basic Expenses: ~$2,343

The Bottom Line: On a single median salary, you are breaking even. There is very little room for savings, emergencies, or discretionary spending. This is the reality for many entry-level and mid-level CNAs in Bennington.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

Short answer: Not on a single CNA salary. The median home price in Bennington is approximately $300,000. A 20% down payment is $60,000. A monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would likely exceed $1,800, which is unsustainable on a $2,350 net income.

Insider Tip: Many local CNAs own homes through multi-generational living arrangements (living with family) or with a dual-income household. Renting is the standard for most single-income healthcare workers in this area.

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Where the Jobs Are: Bennington CDP's Major Employers

Bennington's healthcare economy is dominated by a few key players. Here’s where you’ll find the majority of CNA openings:

1. Bennington Health and Rehab (BHR): A 100-bed skilled nursing facility. This is often the largest single employer of CNAs in town. They hire frequently for full-time, part-time, and per-diem roles. They have a reputation for good orientation and a stable schedule.
2. The Vermont Veterans' Home: A state-run facility providing long-term care for veterans. It offers state employment benefits (like a pension) which are a major draw. Hiring can be slower and more bureaucratic, but the jobs are very secure.
3. Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC): The region's primary hospital. While they hire fewer CNAs directly for inpatient units (often using LPNs and RNs), they have positions in their outpatient clinics, same-day surgery, and sometimes in their senior living community.
4. Home Health Agencies (e.g., Visiting Nurse Association of VT): There are several agencies serving Bennington County. These roles offer more autonomy but less consistency. Pay can be similar, but hours vary based on client needs.
5. Private Assisted Living Facilities: Smaller, privately-owned facilities (like Putnam Place or Beechwood Assisted Living) often have openings. These can be less hectic than a SNF but may offer slightly lower pay.
6. Bennington County Health Department: Occasionally hires for community health aide roles, which are a hybrid of public health and personal care.

Hiring Trends: The market is stable. There is no "rush" of new facilities, so most hiring is to backfill retirements or turnover. Being a VT-licensed CNA is non-negotiable for 99% of these jobs. Many employers are willing to hire if you are in the process of getting licensed, but you must commit to completing it.

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Getting Licensed in VT

Vermont's licensing is straightforward but requires specific steps. You cannot work as a CNA in VT without an active license from the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation (OPR).

Requirements:

1. Complete an OPR-Approved Training Program: These are offered at community colleges (like CCV) and private schools. The course is typically 120 hours (75 classroom, 45 clinical).
2. Pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP): This is a two-part exam: a written/oral test and a skills demonstration. You must pass both to get listed on the Vermont Nurse Aide Registry.
3. Background Check: You must pass a criminal background check through the Vermont Criminal Information Center (VCIC) and the FBI.

Costs & Timeline:

• Training Program: $1,000 - $1,500 (CCV may offer financial aid or grants).
• NNAAP Exam Fee: ~$125 (paid to Credentia, the exam provider).
• Background Check: ~$50.
• Total Estimated Cost: $1,150 - $1,675.
• Timeline: From start to license in hand, expect 2-4 months. This includes a few weeks to find a class, 4-6 weeks for the course itself, and 2-3 weeks for exam scheduling and results.

Insider Tip: The Bennington campus of Community College of Vermont (CCV) is your best local bet for training. They often have evening/weekend classes to accommodate working students. Enrolling here also connects you with a network of other local healthcare students.

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Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Bennington is a classic New England town. You don't need to worry about a "wrong" neighborhood, but your choice affects your commute and lifestyle. The town is divided by the Walloomsac River, with historic North Bennington and the main downtown area.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Rent Estimate (1BR)	Best For...
Downtown Bennington	Walkable to shops, restaurants, and the main medical centers. Most employers are within a 5-10 minute drive.	$1,200 - $1,450	CNAs without a car or who want to be in the center of everything.
North Bennington	Quieter, more residential, and artsy (home to Bennington College). A 5-minute drive to downtown.	$1,100 - $1,300	Those seeking a calmer environment; still very close to work.
Pownal/VT/NY Border	Slightly rural, more house options. Commutes are short but require a car. Rents can be lower.	$950 - $1,200	Budget-conscious CNAs who don't mind a short drive (5-15 mins to downtown).
Old Bennington	Historic district, very quiet, beautiful homes. Limited rental inventory. A 5-minute drive to SVMC.	$1,300 - $1,500	Those who prioritize charm and quiet over walkability.

Insider Tip: Many CNAs choose to live in Pownal or North Bennington to save on rent. The commute is negligible—literally a few miles. The key is to be within a 15-minute drive of your workplace, as public transit is very limited.

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The Long Game: Career Growth

Staying a CNA in Bennington is a viable long-term career if you strategically seek growth. The path isn't about jumping to higher titles at the same employer; it's about specialization and leveraging your local reputation.

Specialty Premiums:

• Dementia/Alzheimer's Care: Facilities with dedicated memory care units (like BHR) often pay a $1-$2/hour premium for CNAs with specific training or experience in this area.
• Restorative Nursing: CNAs who are trained in restorative nursing programs (helping patients regain mobility after illness) are invaluable and can command higher pay.

Advancement Paths:

1. Charge CNA/Team Lead: After 5+ years, you can supervise a shift. This comes with a modest pay increase and more responsibility.
2. Transition to LPN/RN: This is the most common and financially rewarding path. CCV offers LPN and RN programs. Many local hospitals and nursing homes have tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing these degrees.
3. Specialized Certifications: Becoming a CPR/BLS Instructor or a CNA Trainer for new hires at your facility can open doors to higher pay and a less physically demanding role.

10-Year Outlook: With 4% job growth, you won't see a boom in new positions. However, the "graying" of Vermont means the existing jobs will be incredibly stable. The real growth will be for CNAs who are cross-trained (e.g., in phlebotomy, wound care, or medical assisting) or who continue their education. The network you build in Bennington's small healthcare community is your biggest asset—everyone knows everyone, and a good reputation will follow you.

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The Verdict: Is Bennington CDP Right for You?

Bennington offers a specific kind of CNA career: stable, community-focused, and modestly paid. It's not for someone looking for high income or rapid urban growth. It's for the CNA who values job security, a slower pace of life, and being known by name.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
High Job Stability: Low turnover, aging population.	Low Salary Growth: Median $36,564 caps earning potential without further education.
Tight-Knit Healthcare Community: Supportive colleagues, strong local networks.	Limited Job Variety: Only a few major employers; few options for switching up your setting.
Lower Cost of Living (vs. VT cities like Burlington): Rent is manageable with a roommate or dual income.	Isolation & Limited Amenities: Far from major cities (Albany, NY is the closest metro, 1 hour away).
Quality of Life: Access to nature, historic charm, four seasons.	Transportation Dependency: Car is a necessity for reliable commuting.

Final Recommendation: Move to Bennington if you are a CNA seeking stability over high salary growth, and if you value a community where you can make a tangible impact. It's an ideal place for a mid-career CNA looking to settle down, or for a new CNA to get solid experience in a supportive environment. If you plan to use Bennington as a stepping stone to further your nursing education (LPN/RN), the local employers' tuition benefits make it a strategic choice.

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FAQs

1. Can I get a CNA job in Bennington if I'm still in training?
Yes, but conditionally. Many employers (especially BHR and home health agencies) will hire you as a "CNA-in-Training" or "CNA Student" for a lower wage while you complete your state-required course and exam. It's a great way to get your foot in the door and start earning immediately.

2. Do Bennington employers offer shift differentials?
Absolutely. This is a key way to increase your income. Night and weekend shifts typically pay $2.00 - $3.50/hour more than day shifts. At the median rate of $17.58/hour, that can boost your effective hourly wage significantly.

3. What is the winter commute like?
Manageable but requires preparation. Bennington gets steady snow, but the town is excellent at plowing main roads. The commute from neighborhoods like North Bennington or Pownal is short (under 10 miles). A front-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle with good snow tires is a wise investment.

4. Is the cost of living really that high?
The 107.5 index is misleading for a single-item analysis. While rent ($1,343 for a 1BR) is high for a town of this size, other costs like groceries and healthcare can be comparable to national averages. The high index often reflects the cost of goods and services for a small, rural market.

5. How do I stand out in a small job market?
In Bennington, reliability is your greatest currency. Show up on time, every time. Be a team player. Get certified in areas your employer needs (like dementia care). The hiring managers at SVMC, BHR, and the Veterans' Home talk to each other. Your reputation will precede you.