Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Biloxi, MS

The Salary Picture: Where Biloxi Stands

As a Biloxi local who's watched the healthcare scene for years, I can tell you the numbers paint a specific picture. For a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) here, the median salary is $34,612/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $16.64/hour. That's slightly below the national average for the role, which sits at $35,760/year. It's not a dramatic gap, but it's worth noting—especially when you factor in the local cost of living.

To understand where you stand, you need to see the experience ladder. The Mississippi job market for CNAs is structured, and your pay will climb steadily with time and specialization. Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect in the Biloxi area:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Factors
Entry-Level	$28,000 - $31,000	Immediate post-certification. Often starts in long-term care facilities or as a per diem at hospitals.
Mid-Level (2-5 yrs)	$32,000 - $36,000	You've hit the median. Specialties like telemetry or rehab can push you higher. Reliability is key.
Senior (5-10 yrs)	$36,000 - $40,000	Often leads to charge aide roles, training new hires, or specializing in high-demand units.
Expert/Specialized	$40,000+	Requires additional certs (like CNA II, Hospice, or Dialysis). Often found in home health or specialized clinics.

Compared to other Mississippi cities, Biloxi sits in the middle of the pack. Jackson, the state capital and largest metro, typically offers slightly higher wages—median around $35,200—to compete with a larger pool of hospitals. On the Gulf Coast, Gulfport is nearly identical, while Hattiesburg and Meridian often trend lower. Your $34,612 here is competitive, especially when you consider the non-salary benefits of the Coast lifestyle.

Insider Tip: The 10-year job growth is 4% for the state, which is stable but not explosive. This means jobs are consistent, but competition for the best positions remains steady. With 98 jobs in the metro area at any given time (a figure from state labor data), you're not looking at a cutthroat market, but you do need to be proactive.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about what that $34,612 means in your pocket. Using a standard tax calculator for Mississippi and a single filer with the standard deduction, your take-home pay would be approximately $28,500 annually, or about $2,375 per month. The cost of living here is a major advantage—Biloxi's index is 89.3 (US average is 100), meaning your dollar stretches further.

Here’s a sample monthly budget for a CNA earning the median salary:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Housing (1BR Rent)	$923	The city average. You can find cheaper in certain areas or more expensive near the beach.
Utilities (Elec, Water, Gas)	$150	High in summer due to AC, lower in mild winters.
Groceries	$300	Reasonable for one person; shopping at local chains like Rouses or Walmart helps.
Car Payment/Insurance	$350	Assuming a modest car payment and MS's relatively low insurance rates.
Fuel	$120	Commute distances are generally short, but gas prices fluctuate with tourism.
Health Insurance (if not employer-paid)	$150	A conservative estimate for a single individual.
Miscellaneous (Phone, Personal, etc.)	$200	Essentials and a small buffer for entertainment.
Total Estimated Expenses	$2,193
Remaining (Savings/Debt)	~$182	This is tight. Budgeting is crucial.

Can you afford to buy a home? It's challenging on a single CNA income. The median home price in Biloxi is around $180,000. With a $182 monthly surplus, a traditional 20% down payment ($36,000) is a significant hurdle. However, programs like the Mississippi Housing Corporation's first-time homebuyer assistance or VA loans (if applicable) can make it possible with careful planning over several years. Renting, especially with a roommate, is the more immediate and financially stable option.

Where the Jobs Are: Biloxi's Major Employers

The healthcare job market here is anchored by a few key players. Hiring trends show consistent needs, especially in long-term care and hospital support roles. Here are the major employers you should target:

1. Memorial Hospital at Gulfport (Main Campus): While technically in Gulfport, it's the primary trauma center for the entire Coast and a massive employer for CNAs. They often have openings in Med/Surg, Telemetry, and Rehab. Hiring is year-round, with a slight peak in late summer as seasonal residents leave.
2. Keesler Air Force Base Hospital (81st Medical Group): A federal facility with stable, competitive benefits. They hire civilian CNAs for their clinic and hospital services. The process involves a USAJobs application and can be slower, but the pay and federal benefits are excellent.
3. St. James Place: A premier continuing care retirement community in nearby Baton Rouge, but it draws heavily from the Biloxi/Gulfport talent pool. They are a major employer for assisted living and skilled nursing CNAs. They value experience and often promote from within.
4. Biloxi Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center: Located in Biloxi proper, this is a top-tier employer for veterans and those seeking federal benefits. They have a steady need for CNAs in their nursing home (CLC) and outpatient clinics. Preference is often given to veterans, but they hire civilians.
5. Specialized Long-Term Care Facilities: Facilities like Biloxi Beach Nursing & Rehabilitation Center and The Grace House are consistently hiring. They offer a different pace than acute care and are often where new CNAs get their start. Turnover can be higher, providing opportunities.
6. Home Health Agencies: Companies like SunCrest Home Health and Visiting Nurse Association hire CNAs for in-home care. This offers more schedule flexibility but less team support. Pay is often similar to facility work, sometimes with mileage reimbursement.
7. Biloxi Public Schools: The district hires CNAs to work as health aides in school clinics. This is a M-F, daytime schedule with summers and holidays off—a huge draw for those with families. Positions are competitive and posted on the district website.

Insider Tip: Many of these employers use staffing agencies like IntelyCare or ShiftKey for per diem shifts. It's a great way to get your foot in the door, test different environments, and network directly with managers.

Getting Licensed in MS

Mississippi's certification process is straightforward but has specific steps. The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) oversees all nurse aide training programs.

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: You must complete a minimum of 75 hours of training, split between classroom and clinicals. Programs are offered at community colleges (like Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College), vocational schools, and some long-term care facilities. Cost ranges from $800 to $1,500.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: Your training program will schedule your exam through Pearson VUE. It consists of a written/oral portion and a skills demonstration. The exam fee is approximately $104.
3. Get on the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry: Once you pass, your name is added to the state registry. You must renew every two years by working for pay in a nursing-related role for at least 8 hours. There is no fee for renewal if you meet the work requirement.

Timeline to Get Started: From enrollment to being on the registry, expect 2 to 4 months. Many programs have waiting lists, so apply early. If you're already a CNA from another state, you can apply for reciprocity through the MSDH, which is typically processed within 30-60 days.

Total Estimated Initial Cost: $900 - $1,650 (including training, exam, and any background check fees).

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Your commute and lifestyle matter. Biloxi is spread out, and where you live affects your daily life.

1. East Biloxi (Around Keesler AFB): This is a popular area for hospital and VA workers. It's more residential, with a mix of older homes and newer apartments. Commute to Keesler or the VA is under 10 minutes. Rent for a 1BR: $850 - $950.
2. North Biloxi (Near I-110/Mall): Offers easy access to both Biloxi and Gulfport via the highways. It's suburban, with plenty of shopping and dining. A good fit for those working at Memorial Hospital or in home health. Rent for a 1BR: $900 - $1,000.
3. Downtown Biloxi: Walkable, historic, and close to the casino district's energy. It's undergoing revitalization. Best for those who want a vibrant social scene and don't mind older apartments. Commute to hospitals is short. Rent for a 1BR: $850 - $1,100 (more variable).
4. Gulfport (Adjacent City): Don't overlook Gulfport. It's a separate city but a 10-15 minute drive from most Biloxi healthcare jobs. It often has slightly more rental inventory and a similar cost of living. The beach is a major draw. Rent for a 1BR: $900 - $1,050.
5. Long Beach: A quiet, family-friendly suburb west of Gulfport. A longer commute to Biloxi jobs (20-25 mins), but worth it for a quieter lifestyle and excellent schools. Rent for a 1BR: $950 - $1,100.

Insider Tip: Traffic is minimal except during peak tourist season (summer) and special events. A 15-minute commute is the norm for most.

The Long Game: Career Growth

While the base salary is modest, the path forward is clear if you're strategic.

• Specialty Premiums: Obtaining a CNA II certification (for advanced skills like phlebotomy or EKG) can add $1-$2/hour to your pay. Specializing in hospice, dialysis, or pediatrics also commands premium pay, often pushing you toward the $40,000 mark.
• Advancement Paths: The most common path is to become a Medication Aide (after 6 months of experience), which allows you to administer medications in long-term care. Another is to move into supervisory or charge aide roles. The most traditional advancement is using your CNA experience as a stepping stone to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN). Many hospitals offer tuition reimbursement.
• 10-Year Outlook: With a 4% growth rate, the job market will remain stable. The aging population on the Gulf Coast (a popular retirement destination) ensures steady demand. However, to see significant wage growth, you must pursue additional certifications or move into management. The ceiling for a non-specialized CNA is around $42,000 in our region.

The Verdict: Is Biloxi Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your paycheck goes further than in most US cities.	Below-National-Average Pay: The **median of $34,612 is lower than the US average of $35,760.
Stable Job Market: Consistent demand in hospitals, VA, and long-term care.	Limited Specialization: Fewer high-acuity specialty units compared to larger metros like Jackson.
Unique Lifestyle: Beach access, fresh seafood, and a relaxed pace of life.	Hurricane Risk: You must be prepared for seasonal storms and potential disruptions.
Short Commutes: Easy to get to work, no major traffic jams.	Tourist Season Crowds: Summer brings congestion and higher prices for some services.
Clear Career Paths: Easy to see how to move up from CNA to LPN/RN.	Limited Public Transit: A car is a necessity.

Final Recommendation: Biloxi is an excellent choice for a CNA who values work-life balance, a low cost of living, and a unique coastal environment over maximum earning potential. It's ideal for those planning to use the role as a stepping stone to nursing school or for those who want a stable, manageable career in a supportive community. If you're solely chasing the highest paycheck, a larger city might be better. But for a holistic, manageable life, Biloxi offers a compelling package.

FAQs

Q: Is it easy to find a CNA job in Biloxi as a new graduate?
A: Yes. With 98 jobs in the metro, there is steady demand. New graduates often start in long-term care facilities or as per diem staff. Being willing to work nights or weekends will increase your options significantly. Networking during clinicals is your best asset.

Q: How does the hurricane season affect CNA jobs?
A: Healthcare facilities are essential and must remain operational. You will be expected to report to work unless an official evacuation order is issued for your area. Facilities often have disaster plans and may provide temporary lodging if needed. It's a serious consideration, but the industry is prepared.

Q: Can I work as a CNA in Biloxi with a license from another state?
A: Yes, through reciprocity. You must apply to the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) Nurse Aide Registry. You'll need to provide proof of your current certification and may need to complete a Mississippi-specific competency exam if your training hours were different. The process typically takes 1-2 months.

Q: What is the typical schedule for a CNA in Biloxi hospitals?
A: Schedules are typically 8 or 12-hour shifts, with a mix of days, evenings, and nights. Most full-time positions require every other weekend rotation. Hospital jobs are more likely to offer 12-hour shifts, while long-term care often uses 8-hour shifts.

Q: Are there opportunities for overtime?
A: Yes, especially in hospitals and during flu season or staff shortages. Overtime is typically paid at 1.5x your hourly rate. Per diem and agency work also offer flexible opportunities for extra hours.