The Nursing Assistant's Guide to Bentonville, Arkansas

If you're a Nursing Assistant (CNA) looking for a place where your skills are in demand, the cost of living won't break the bank, and you can enjoy a high quality of life, Bentonville, Arkansas deserves a serious look. As a local, I’ve seen this city transform from a quiet corporate town into a bustling regional hub, all while holding onto the tight-knit community feel that makes day-to-day life pleasant. This guide is your no-nonsense, data-driven roadmap to building a career and a life here.

The Salary Picture: Where Bentonville Stands

Let's start with the most critical number: your paycheck. In Bentonville, the median salary for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) is $34,794/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $16.73/hour. It's important to understand that this is a median, meaning half of all CNAs in the area earn more, and half earn less. This number is slightly below the national average for CNAs, which sits at $35,760/year. However, this comparison is crucial—it tells us that while wages are in line with national trends, the real story is in the cost of living, which we'll get to.

The job market is steady. There are approximately 112 jobs for CNAs in the Bentonville metro area at any given time. The 10-year job growth for this sector is projected at 4%. This isn't explosive growth, but it's stable and consistent. It indicates a reliable demand for your skills, driven by an aging population and the constant needs of healthcare facilities. You're not walking into a boomtown, but you are entering a dependable market.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Your earning potential will, of course, climb with experience. Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect to earn at different stages of your career in Bentonville:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Estimated Hourly Rate
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$28,000 - $32,000	$13.46 - $15.38
Mid-Career (3-7 years)	$32,000 - $38,000	$15.38 - $18.27
Senior/Lead (8-15 years)	$38,000 - $44,000	$18.27 - $21.15
Expert/Specialized (15+ years)	$44,000+	$21.15+

Note: These ranges are based on local job postings and industry trends, centered around the median salary of $34,794/year.

Comparison to Other Arkansas Cities

How does Bentonville stack up against other major cities in the Natural State? It's a mixed bag. For a CNA, the highest wages are typically found in the state's largest metro areas, but so is the cost of living.

City	Median CNA Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	Rent (1BR Avg)
Bentonville	$34,794	91.0	$773
Little Rock	$33,800	87.5	$825
Fayetteville	$32,500	90.5	$810
Fort Smith	$31,200	82.0	$650

As you can see, Bentonville offers a competitive salary compared to other Arkansas cities, often paired with a very manageable cost of living. While Little Rock's salary is slightly lower, its rent is higher, making Bentonville's net financial position potentially stronger.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $34,794/year sounds different when you break it down to monthly take-home pay. Let's be realistic about the budget for a CNA living in Bentonville.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Single CNA:

• Gross Monthly Income: $2,899
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, State, FICA): ~$600
• Net Monthly Income: ~$2,299
• Average 1BR Rent: -$773
• Utilities (Avg. for AR): -$180
• Groceries: -$300
• Car Payment/Insurance (Essential in Bentonville): -$400
• Gas/Transport: -$120
• Health Insurance (if not fully covered by employer): -$200
• Miscellaneous/Personal: -$200
• Remaining / Savings: ~$126

This is a tight but doable budget. The key is living within your means and finding an employer with strong benefits, particularly for health insurance. The $773/month rent is for a average 1BR apartment; you can find cheaper options (as low as $600) or more expensive ones ($900+), but this is a solid baseline.

Can you afford to buy a home? On a single CNA income of $34,794, it's challenging but not impossible. A median-priced home in Bentonville is around $250,000. With a 3.5% FHA loan down payment ($8,750), your monthly mortgage, taxes, and insurance would likely exceed $1,800, which is unsustainable on a $2,299 net income. However, if you have a partner with an income, or if you advance to a senior/expert level salary ($44,000+), homeownership becomes a realistic goal. Many local CNAs buy homes in nearby towns like Rogers or Gravette where prices are slightly lower.

Where the Jobs Are: Bentonville's Major Employers

Bentonville's healthcare ecosystem is robust and growing. The city is the global headquarters of Walmart, which has a massive influence on the local economy, including healthcare benefits for its vast workforce. Here are the primary employers for CNAs:

1. Northwest Health - Bentonville: This is the main hospital in the city, part of a larger regional system. It's a primary source of hospital-based CNA jobs in med-surg, ER, and rehab units. They often have the most openings and a clear career ladder. Hiring trends are steady, with a focus on retaining staff through benefits and tuition reimbursement.

2. Willow Creek Women's Hospital (in nearby Rogers): A short 15-minute drive, this specialized hospital is a major employer. CNAs here work in labor & delivery, postpartum, and NICU support. It's a high-acuity environment that looks for experienced CNAs, often offering a pay premium.

3. Bentonville Senior Care & Rehabilitation: Like most cities, Bentonville has several long-term care facilities. These are the bedrock of CNA employment, offering consistent hours and experience in geriatric care. Facilities like Apple Creek Health & Rehab and The Blossoms at Bentonville are always looking for reliable CNAs. Hiring is often quick for those with a clean record and good references.

4. Arkansas Children's Northwest: Located in Springdale (a 20-minute drive), this is one of the region's top children's hospitals. While they often require a Pediatric CNA certification or equivalent experience, they are a premier employer with excellent benefits and a supportive environment. It's worth the commute for the right candidate.

5. Walmart Health & Wellness Clinics: Walmart is aggressively expanding its in-store health clinics, which include primary care and sometimes urgent care services. These clinics employ medical assistants and CNAs for front-office and basic clinical support roles. It's a unique, corporate-backed healthcare setting with traditional business hours—no nights or weekends.

6. Home Health Agencies: Companies like SunCrest Home Health and Interim HealthCare serve the greater NWA region. This is perfect for CNAs who want flexibility. You'll travel to patients' homes, which requires a clean driving record and independent work ethic. Pay can be hourly or per visit, and you often earn mileage reimbursement.

7. The Jones Center: While not a hospital, this massive community center offers recreational programs for seniors. They sometimes hire CNAs or similar caregivers for their senior wellness programs, offering a less clinical, more activity-based work environment.

Insider Tip: The best way to find jobs is through direct applications on hospital career pages. Also, join the "NWA Healthcare Jobs" Facebook group—many local managers post openings there before they hit major job boards.

Getting Licensed in Arkansas

If you're new to the state or just starting your career, you'll need to get your Arkansas CNA certification. The process is straightforward but has specific steps.

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: You must complete a minimum of 90 hours of training (75 classroom/lab, 15 clinical). This is offered at community colleges (like NorthWest Arkansas Community College - NWACC), technical schools, and private training centers. Cost: $800 - $1,500. NWACC's program is highly regarded and costs around $1,100.

2. Pass the Competency Exam: After training, you'll take the written and skills exam administered by Pearson VUE. The exam fee is $115.

3. Apply for State Certification: Once you pass, you apply to the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) for your name to be added to the Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry. The application fee is $50.

Timeline: From start to finish, you can be certified in 2-3 months. Many employers, especially nursing homes, will hire you as a "trainee" while you complete your certification if you have a clean background check.

Maintaining Your License: Arkansas requires you to work for pay for at least 8 hours in a 24-month period to stay on the registry. You must also complete continuing education through your employer.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Bentonville is not a huge city, but where you live affects your commute and lifestyle. Here are top picks for CNAs, considering affordability and proximity to major employers.

1. Downtown Bentonville: The heart of the city, walkable to the Square, Crystal Bridges Museum, and many restaurants. It's charming but pricier. Commute to Northwest Health is 5-10 minutes by car. Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,200 for a 1BR. Best for those who want an active, social scene and can stretch their budget.

2. Southwest Bentonville (Near I-49): This area offers newer apartment complexes and more affordable single-family homes. It's a straight shot to Northwest Health (10 mins) and easy access to Rogers and Springdale. Rent Estimate: $700 - $900 for a 1BR. Ideal for commuters and those seeking modern amenities.

3. The Orchards / North Bentonville: A quieter, residential area with established neighborhoods and good schools. It's a bit farther from the main hospital but closer to the new commercial developments along Walton Blvd. Rent Estimate: $750 - $950 for a 1BR. Great for CNAs with families or those who prefer a suburban feel.

4. Rogers (East of Bentonville): Technically a separate city, but a 10-15 minute commute. Rogers has a vibrant historic downtown and often slightly lower rents than Bentonville. It's also very close to Willow Creek Women's Hospital. Rent Estimate: $700 - $850 for a 1BR. A smart choice for balancing cost and convenience.

Insider Tip: Traffic on I-49 is minimal compared to big cities, but the "Bentonville rush hour" (7-8 AM, 5-6 PM) can add 10-15 minutes to your commute. Living within 5 miles of your workplace is a major quality-of-life win.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A CNA role is a fantastic starting point, but where does it lead in Bentonville? The career ladder is clear and achievable.

• Specialty Premiums: While the median is $34,794, you can earn more by specializing. CNAs in the ER at Northwest Health or in Labor & Delivery at Willow Creek often earn a $1-2/hour premium. Obtaining a specialty like Phlebotomy or EKG Technician certification can also boost your value and pay.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Medication Aide (CMA): After gaining experience, you can take a state-approved course to become a Certified Medication Aide, allowing you to administer medications in long-term care. This comes with a pay raise.
  2. LPN/RN Bridge Programs: This is the most common path. Local employers like Northwest Health and NWACC have partnerships for tuition reimbursement. NWACC's LPN program is excellent, and many local CNAs work part-time while going to school. An LPN in Bentonville earns a median of $48,000/year, and an RN earns $67,000/year.
  3. Healthcare Administration: With experience, some move into roles like unit clerk, scheduling, or even patient care coordinator, especially within the corporate structures of Walmart Health or large hospital systems.

The 10-Year Outlook: The 4% job growth is solid. The demand will be driven by the continued expansion of Northwest Health and the aging population. The biggest opportunity is in specialty care and home health, as more care shifts to outpatient and home settings. Your value as an experienced CNA will only increase.

The Verdict: Is Bentonville Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $34,794 salary goes further here than in most places.	Wages are Average: Salaries are slightly below the national average.
Stable Job Market: 112 jobs and 4% growth offer reliability.	Limited Nightlife: It's a family-friendly city, not a party hub.
High Quality of Life: Safe, clean, with amazing parks and culture.	Car Dependency: You need a reliable car; public transit is limited.
Career Advancement: Clear paths to LPN/RN with employer support.	Competitive Housing Market: Finding cheap rent can be tough due to growth.
Major Employer Stability: Anchored by Walmart and a growing hospital system.	Weather: Hot, humid summers and occasional ice in winter.

Final Recommendation: Bentonville is an excellent choice for a CNA who is pragmatic, values stability, and is interested in long-term career growth. It's perfect for those who want to build a life, not just a job. If you're willing to start at the median salary of $34,794 and budget carefully, the low cost of living and high quality of life make it a financially and personally rewarding place. It's not the place for someone seeking a high-octane, fast-paced city life, but for a CNA looking for a supportive community and a clear path forward, Bentonville is a hidden gem.

FAQs

Q: Is it hard to find a job as a new CNA in Bentonville?
A: Not if you're proactive. Nursing homes are almost always hiring and sometimes sponsor training. Hospitals prefer 1-2 years of experience, but entry-level positions do open up. Get your certification, apply widely, and leverage any clinical rotation contacts.

Q: Do I need my own car?
A: Yes, absolutely. Bentonville is spread out. While the downtown area is walkable, getting to work, running errands, and accessing healthcare facilities requires a vehicle. Public transportation exists but is not reliable for shift work.

Q: What's the cost of living really like?
A: With a Cost of Living Index of 91.0 (vs. US avg 100), it's about 9% cheaper than average. The biggest savings are in housing and utilities. Groceries and healthcare are near the national average. You'll feel the stretch on your $34,794 salary, but it's manageable.

Q: Can I get a job without a car if I live downtown?
A: It's very difficult. Your shifts could be at 6 AM or 11 PM; walking or biking isn't safe or practical at those hours in all weather. Some home health jobs might be within a bikeable range if you live centrally, but it's a major limitation.

Q: What's the best way to prepare for the Arkansas CNA exam?
A: Take your training seriously. Practice the skills daily. Use online resources for the written portion. Local training programs at NWACC or the private schools do a good job of prepping you, as the pass rate is high. Your clinicals are your best practice ground.

Data Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), local job postings (Indeed, LinkedIn), and UI cost of living data.