Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Bismarck, ND

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Nursing Assistants considering Bismarck, North Dakota.

---

The Salary Picture: Where Bismarck Stands

Let's get right to the numbers. In Bismarck, the median salary for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) is $34,644/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $16.66/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $35,760/year, a reality reflected in the broader North Dakota job market where rural and lower-cost-of-living areas often adjust wages accordingly. However, with a cost of living index of 89.6 (where the US average is 100), your dollar stretches further here than in many parts of the country.

The job outlook in the Bismarck metro is stable. There are approximately 150 CNA positions in the metro area, with a projected 10-year job growth of 4%. This isn't explosive growth, but it indicates consistent demand, largely driven by an aging population and the steady needs of Bismarck’s major healthcare systems.

Experience-Level Breakdown

While the median is a useful benchmark, your actual pay will depend heavily on experience, shift differentials, and the specific employer. Here’s a realistic breakdown based on local job postings and industry standards:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Factors
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$30,000 - $32,000	Often starts at or near the minimum wage for CNA roles. Weekend/night shifts can boost this.
Mid-Level (2-5 years)	$34,644 - $38,000	Reaches the median with experience. May include shift differentials or certifications (e.g., hospice).
Senior-Level (5-10 years)	$38,000 - $42,000	Often seen in lead CNA roles, specialized units, or with specific certifications (like phlebotomy).
Expert/Charge CNA (10+ years)	$42,000+	Typically involves supervisory duties, training new staff, or working in high-acuity settings.

Comparison to Other ND Cities

Bismarck is the state capital and a regional healthcare hub, but it's not the highest-paying city for CNAs in North Dakota. The following table compares the median CNA salary across major ND cities, adjusted for the local cost of living.

City	Median CNA Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	Notes
Bismarck	$34,644	89.6	Strong healthcare infrastructure, moderate pay.
Fargo	$36,500	92.1	Higher cost of living and more competition from major hospitals and colleges.
Grand Forks	$33,800	88.5	Home to Altru Health System and UND, but slightly lower pay.
Minot	$33,200	90.0	Smaller market, influenced by Minot Air Force Base and Trinity Health.

Insider Tip: Don't just look at the base salary. Many Bismarck hospitals offer significant shift differentials (often $2-$4/hour extra for nights, weekends, or holidays). This can effectively boost your annual income by several thousand dollars if you're willing to work non-traditional hours.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

With a median salary of $34,644, let's break down what a realistic monthly budget looks like for a CNA living alone in Bismarck.

• Gross Monthly Income: $34,644 / 12 = $2,887
• Estimated Take-Home Pay (after ~20% for taxes & deductions): ~$2,310/month
• Average 1BR Rent: $848/month
• Remaining for Utilities, Food, Transport, & Savings: ~$1,462/month

Monthly Budget Breakdown

Expense Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$848	This is the city-wide average. See the neighborhoods section for specifics.
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Internet)	$200	Bismarck has cold winters; heating costs can spike.
Groceries	$350	A single person, cooking at home.
Transportation	$250	Includes gas, insurance, and maintenance. Public transit (CAT) is limited.
Health Insurance	$150	If not fully covered by employer.
Miscellaneous & Savings	$512	Covers entertainment, clothing, emergency fund, and personal savings.

Can they afford to buy a home? It's tight but possible long-term. The median home price in Bismarck is around $275,000. With your budget, saving for a down payment would take years without drastic lifestyle cuts. However, the relatively low cost of living compared to national averages makes homeownership a more attainable goal here than in many cities, especially with a dual-income household or after advancing to a higher-paying role.

Where the Jobs Are: Bismarck's Major Employers

Bismarck’s healthcare scene is dominated by two major systems and a network of long-term care facilities. Hiring is continuous, but turnover is highest in long-term care, creating frequent openings.

1. CHI St. Alexius Health Bismarck: A major Catholic health system with a large hospital on the city's west side. They are the largest employer in the region. CNAs work in med-surg, rehab, and long-term care units. Hiring trends show a steady need, with a preference for candidates who have experience in electronic health records (EHR).
2. Sanford Bismarck: Part of the national Sanford Health network. Their main campus is on the city's east side. Sanford is known for investment in senior care and specialty clinics. They often have career ladders for CNAs to become Medical Assistants or LPNs with tuition support.
3. Baptist Health Care Center: A prominent long-term care and rehabilitation facility. As a dedicated LTC facility, it has a high volume of CNA positions and often hires new graduates, making it a good entry point.
4. Miller Pointe at Hillside: Another major senior living and skilled nursing facility on the city's north side. They frequently post openings and offer competitive benefits within the LTC sector.
5. The North Dakota Department of Health & Human Services: While not a direct employer for most CNAs, this state agency oversees licensing and compliance. Knowing their standards (see below) is crucial. Their regulations directly impact job requirements at state-licensed facilities.
6. Home Health Agencies (e.g., Home Instead, Visiting Nurse Association): The demand for in-home care is growing. These roles offer more varied schedules and one-on-one patient interaction but may have less stable hours than hospital positions.

Insider Tip: The best time to apply is often in late spring and early fall. Hospitals and LTC facilities ramp up hiring before the summer vacation season and again after the holidays. Network at local job fairs, often hosted by Bismarck State College or the local workforce center.

Getting Licensed in ND

North Dakota requires all CNAs to be listed on the state's Nurse Aide Registry. The process is managed by the North Dakota Department of Health & Human Services (HHS).

State-Specific Requirements:

1. Training: Complete a state-approved CNA training program (minimum 75 hours, including 16 hours of clinicals). Bismarck State College and local healthcare facilities offer these programs. Total cost ranges from $500 - $1,200.
2. Competency Exam: Pass the written (or oral) and skills exam administered by Pearson VUE. The exam fee is approximately $115.
3. Background Check: A fingerprint-based criminal background check is required (cost ~$45).
4. Registry Application: Submit your application to the ND HHS Nurse Aide Registry. There is no fee for initial registration if you pass the exam.

Timeline to Get Started:

• Program Enrollment to Completion: 4-8 weeks for full-time programs; longer for part-time.
• Exam Scheduling: Can be scheduled immediately after program completion.
• License Processing: Once you pass the exam, your name is typically added to the registry within 2-4 weeks.
• Total Time: Expect a 2-4 month process from the first day of class to being "registry-ready."

Insider Tip: Some employers, like CHI St. Alexius or Sanford, may offer tuition reimbursement or free training in exchange for a work commitment (usually 6-12 months). This is a fantastic way to enter the field with little to no debt.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Bismarck is a car-dependent city. When choosing a neighborhood, consider your workplace location. Commutes are generally short (10-20 minutes), but winter driving can be challenging.

1. Downtown/State Capitol Area:

   • Vibe: Historic, walkable, with restaurants and nightlife. Close to the Capitol building and some office complexes.
   • Rent (1BR): $900 - $1,100
   • Commute: Central to many employers. Easy access to highway 83/94.
   • Best For: Those who want an urban feel and don't mind older buildings.

2. North Bismarck (Near Baptist Health/ Miller Pointe):

   • Vibe: Established residential area with older homes and apartments. Quiet and family-oriented.
   • Rent (1BR): $750 - $900
   • Commute: 5-10 minutes to major LTC facilities. 15 minutes to hospitals.
   • Best For: CNAs working in long-term care or seeking lower rent.

3. South Bismarck (Near Sanford Hospital):

   • Vibe: Newer development, shopping centers, and modern apartment complexes.
   • Rent (1BR): $950 - $1,200
   • Commute: 5-10 minutes to Sanford. 15-20 minutes to CHI.
   • Best For: Those working at Sanford who prefer newer amenities and don't mind higher rent.

4. East Bismarck (Near Hillside/ Gateway Mall):

   • Vibe: Mix of older and newer housing, very central. Close to shopping and restaurants.
   • Rent (1BR): $800 - $1,000
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to all major employers.
   • Best For: A good balance of cost, convenience, and commute time.

5. Mandan (West Bismarck Metro):

   • Vibe: A separate city to the west, connected by the Liberty Memorial Bridge. More industrial roots, lower cost of living.
   • Rent (1BR): $700 - $850
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to Bismarck hospitals; 5-10 minutes to local care facilities.
   • Best For: Maximizing affordability. You get a cheaper apartment with a short commute.

Insider Tip: When apartment hunting, ask about "snow removal" policies. A good landlord who plows your parking lot is worth a few extra dollars in rent during Bismarck's long winter.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A CNA license in Bismarck is a solid foundation. The path to advancement is clear and supported by local institutions.

• Specialty Certifications: While not always mandated, certifications can lead to higher pay or specialized roles. Consider:

  • Hospice CNA: Requires additional training but offers a premium in pay and deep patient connection.
  • Dementia/Alzheimer's Care: Highly sought after in Bismarck's growing senior care sector.
  • Phlebotomy/EKG Tech: Some employers cross-train CNAs for these roles, adding technical skills and value.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. CNA → Medical Assistant (MA): Bismarck State College offers MA programs. MAs have a broader scope (drawing blood, giving injections) and higher median pay (~$40,000+).
  2. CNA → Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): A 1-2 year program at Bismarck State College. This is the most common and lucrative advancement. LPNs in ND earn a median salary of ~$54,000.
  3. CNA → Registered Nurse (RN): Requires a 2-year Associate Degree (ADN) or 4-year Bachelor's (BSN). Both are offered at Bismarck State College and University of Mary. RNs in ND earn a median of ~$72,000.

• 10-Year Outlook: With a 4% job growth, the market for CNAs will remain stable. However, the demand for experienced CNAs and those with advanced licenses will grow faster. The aging population ensures a steady need for direct care, but upward mobility will come from education. Bismarck’s colleges have strong partnerships with local hospitals, often providing clinical placements and job prospects for graduates.

The Verdict: Is Bismarck Right for You?

Bismarck offers a stable, affordable entry into the healthcare field with a clear path for advancement. It’s not a high-salary market, but the low cost of living and tight-knit medical community can make for a rewarding career.

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: Your salary of $34,644 goes further here than the national average.	Lower Median Salary: Pay is below the national average, which can be a hurdle.
Stable Job Market: With ~150 jobs and steady growth, finding a position is very feasible.	Harsh Winters: Long, cold, and snowy winters can be a lifestyle adjustment.
Strong Path for Advancement: Excellent local colleges for LPN/RN programs with employer support.	Car-Dependent City: Limited public transportation; owning a reliable vehicle is a must.
Tight-Knit Community: The healthcare network is interconnected; networking is effective.	Limited Nightlife/Entertainment: Quieter pace of life, especially outside of downtown.

Final Recommendation:
Bismarck is an excellent choice for a CNA who values stability, affordability, and a clear path to advance their education. It's ideal for those planning to use a CNA role as a stepping stone to LPN or RN licensure within 3-5 years. If you are seeking a high starting salary or a bustling, cosmopolitan environment, you may find Bismarck limiting. However, for a pragmatic, career-focused individual, it provides a supportive environment to build a lifelong healthcare career.

FAQs

1. Do I need a car to work as a CNA in Bismarck?
Yes, absolutely. Public transportation (CAT) exists but is not reliable for shift work, especially early mornings, nights, or weekends. Most employers are spread out, and winters make walking or biking impractical for much of the year.

2. What is the typical schedule for a CNA in Bismarck?
Schedules vary by employer. Hospitals (CHI, Sanford) often use 8-, 10-, or 12-hour shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Long-term care facilities frequently offer 8-hour shifts with more predictable day/evening/night rotations. Many facilities are short-staffed, so overtime is often available.

3. How competitive is the job market for new CNAs?
Moderately competitive. While there are always openings, employers prefer candidates with some experience. To stand out as a new graduate, apply at long-term care facilities first (they hire new CNAs more readily), and consider a facility that offers on-the-job training. Highlight any clinicals or volunteer work on your resume.

4. Are there opportunities for part-time or flexible work?
Yes, especially in home health and long-term care. Many facilities need weekend warriors and are open to 16- or 24-hour week schedules. This can be a great way to start while pursuing further education.

5. What is the biggest challenge for CNAs in Bismarck?
The physical and emotional demands of the job are universal, but locally, the biggest challenge is often the winter commute and staffing shortages during peak flu/COVID seasons. Having a reliable vehicle and a strong support system is crucial.