Nursing Assistant (CNA) in College Station, TX

The Salary Picture: Where College Station Stands

When you're looking at a career as a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in College Station, the first thing to ground yourself in is the numbers. The local median salary for CNAs here is $34,762 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $16.71. This figure sits just below the national average of $35,760, but the lower cost of living in the Bryan-College Station metro area makes it a more manageable wage than it might appear on the surface.

The job market is stable but not booming, with approximately 250 CNA positions available in the metro area at any given time. The 10-year job growth projection is 4%, which is modest but steady, reflecting the consistent demand in healthcare services for an aging population in Brazos County.

To give you a clearer picture of how experience translates into earnings, here’s a breakdown of typical salary progression for CNAs in this region:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Hourly Rate
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$29,000 - $32,000	$14.00 - $15.40
Mid-Level (3-5 years)	$33,000 - $37,000	$15.85 - $17.80
Senior-Level (6-10 years)	$36,000 - $41,000	$17.30 - $19.70
Expert/Specialized (10+ years)	$40,000+	$19.25+

Insider Tip: The $34,762 median is heavily influenced by the large number of positions at St. Joseph Health and CHI St. Joseph Health, which have standardized pay scales. For the highest wages, look into per-diem or travel CNA contracts, which can offer premiums of 15-20% over the median, especially during seasonal flu outbreaks or staff shortages.

Compared to other Texas cities, College Station offers a different value proposition. While a CNA in Houston or Dallas might earn closer to the national average or slightly above (around $36,000-$38,000), their rent and living costs are often 40-60% higher. Austin's tech-driven economy pushes CNA wages higher (around $37,000-$39,000), but the cost of living is nearly double that of College Station. In smaller Texas towns, salaries can dip below $32,000, but with fewer employer options. College Station sits in a sweet spot: a living wage in a community with a low cost of living and a reliable, if not spectacular, job market.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Earning the median salary of $34,762 translates to a monthly gross income of approximately $2,897. After federal, state (Texas has no state income tax), and FICA taxes (approximately 15-20% of gross), a CNA can expect a net take-home pay of around $2,320 to $2,460 per month.

The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in College Station is $1,015 per month. This figure can vary significantly based on proximity to Texas A&M University and the Medical District.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Median Salary):

• Gross Monthly Income: $2,897
• Estimated Net (Take-Home): $2,400
• Rent (1BR): $1,015
• Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet): $150 - $200
• Groceries: $250 - $300
• Car Payment/Insurance/Gas: $350 - $500
• Healthcare/Personal Care: $100
• Discretionary/Savings: $235 - $435

This budget is tight but manageable. The key is finding affordable housing. With a Cost of Living Index of 90.7 (100 being the national average), your dollar stretches further here than in most cities. You will not be living lavishly, but you can live comfortably without roommates if you are frugal.

Can they afford to buy a home?
On a single CNA salary of $34,762, buying a home in the current College Station market is a significant challenge. The median home price in the Bryan-College Station metro area is approximately $300,000. A 20% down payment ($60,000) is a major hurdle. Even with an FHA loan (3.5% down, $10,500), the monthly mortgage payment, property taxes, and insurance would likely exceed $1,800, which is unsustainable on the median take-home pay. Homeownership becomes more feasible with dual incomes, a spouse, or by advancing into a higher-paying specialty role (see "The Long Game" section below).

Where the Jobs Are: College Station's Major Employers

The CNA job market in College Station is dominated by the healthcare and university sectors. Here are the primary employers and their hiring trends:

1. CHI St. Joseph Health: This is the largest healthcare provider in the region, operating St. Joseph Hospital in Bryan and multiple specialty clinics. They are the most consistent hirer of CNAs, often with multiple openings per month. Hiring is steady year-round, with a slight peak in late summer/early fall as they prepare for the winter respiratory season. They offer good benefits and a clear career ladder into roles like Patient Care Technician.

2. Baylor Scott & White Health: Operating the Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – College Station, this system is a major employer. They often have a lower turnover rate, so openings can be competitive. They tend to hire CNAs with at least 1-2 years of experience. Their hiring is more strategic and less frequent than St. Joseph's.

3. Texas A&M University Health Science Center: While not a traditional hospital, the College of Nursing and the Health Science Center employ CNAs in simulation labs, student health services, and research studies. These positions are highly sought after for their regular hours (no weekends/holidays) and academic environment. They are less frequent but worth monitoring.

4. Brazos Valley Senior Health & Wellness (BVSHW): This is a significant outpatient clinic focusing on senior care. They hire CNAs for clinic support roles, which are typically Monday-Friday jobs with no shift work. It's an excellent option for those seeking a predictable schedule. Hiring is consistent but small-scale (1-2 positions at a time).

5. Local Nursing Homes & Assisted Living Facilities: Facilities like The Gables at College Station, St. Joseph Manor, and Brazos Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation are steady employers. They often have higher turnover, leading to frequent openings. This is a common entry point for new CNAs. Shifts can be demanding, but they provide invaluable experience in long-term care.

6. Home Health Agencies: Companies like Visiting Nurse Association of Brazos Valley and Comfort Keepers hire CNAs for in-home care. This offers the most flexibility but less consistent hours. It's ideal for CNAs who want to work independently and are comfortable with driving across the wide Brazos County area.

Insider Tip: Many CNAs in College Station work per-diem (as-needed) at one facility while holding a part-time or full-time position at another. This "job stacking" strategy can boost income by 20-30% and provide a safety net if one employer cuts hours. The key is managing your schedule and avoiding burnout.

Getting Licensed in TX

To work as a CNA in Texas, you must be listed on the Texas Nurse Aide Registry. The process is straightforward but requires dedication.

State-Specific Requirements:

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: You must complete a minimum of 100 hours of training, which includes 60 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of clinical training. Several community colleges and private schools in the Bryan-College Station area offer these programs. Blinn College (Bryan campus) is a reputable and affordable option. Private vocational schools are faster but more expensive.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After completing your training, you must pass both the written (multiple-choice) and skills (demonstration) portions of the state competency exam. The exam is administered by Pearson VUE. The total cost for the exam is approximately $115 ($85 for written, $30 for skills).
3. Submit Application for Listing: Once you pass the exam, your training program will submit your information to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) for listing on the registry. There is no additional fee for this if you completed an approved program.

Timeline and Costs:

• Training Program: Can range from 4 weeks (accelerated) to 12 weeks (part-time). Costs vary widely from $500-$1,200. Blinn College's program is on the lower end, while private career schools are higher.
• Exam Fee: $115
• Background Check: Most employers will require a fingerprint-based background check (cost: ~$40).
• Total Estimated Startup Cost: $655 - $1,355

Insider Tip: Some employers, like CHI St. Joseph Health, offer tuition reimbursement or free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment (typically 6-12 months). This is an excellent way to enter the field with no upfront cost. Inquire directly with their HR department about "Clinical Partner" or "CNA Apprenticeship" programs.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Choosing where to live in College Station significantly impacts your commute, budget, and lifestyle. Here’s a neighborhood breakdown:

1. South College Station: This is the most popular area for healthcare workers. It's close to the major medical centers (St. Joseph Hospital, Baylor Scott & White) and offers a mix of newer apartments and single-family homes. Commutes are short (5-15 minutes). It's family-friendly with good schools but has higher rents.

   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $1,100 - $1,300/month

2. Northgate/A&M Campus Area: While vibrant and full of amenities, this area is dominated by student housing and can be noisy and expensive. It's not ideal for a working professional unless you specifically want to be in the heart of the action. Commutes to medical facilities are longer (15-25 minutes).

   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $1,200 - $1,800/month (often by the bed/room)

3. Bryan (East Side): Across the Brazos River, Bryan offers more affordable housing. The east side, near Highway 21, has newer apartment complexes with lower rents. The commute to College Station hospitals is reasonable (15-20 minutes). It's a practical choice for budget-conscious CNAs.

   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $850 - $1,050/month

4. Wellborn/Rio Vista: These are quiet, suburban neighborhoods south of the main city center. They offer more space and a slower pace. Commutes to the medical district are about 15-25 minutes. Great for those who prefer a residential feel without being in the bustle.

   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $950 - $1,200/month

5. Downtown Bryan: For those who love a historic, walkable urban vibe with restaurants and coffee shops. The housing stock is older, with charming apartments and lofts. Commute to College Station is easy via Highway 6. It has a unique character that many young professionals appreciate.

   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $900 - $1,150/month

Insider Tip: Traffic in College Station is highly correlated with Texas A&M's academic calendar. If you live in Bryan and commute to College Station, your drive is simple most of the year. However, during football season (September-November) and graduation weekends, traffic can double your commute time. Plan accordingly.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The CNA role is often a stepping stone. In College Station, with its major university and healthcare systems, there are clear pathways for advancement.

Specialty Premiums:

• Hospice & Palliative Care CNAs: Can command a 5-10% premium due to the specialized emotional and clinical skills required. Employers like Brazos Valley Hospice seek these CNAs.
• Geriatric or Dementia Care Specialists: CNAs with extensive experience in memory care units are highly valued at facilities like The Gables or St. Joseph Manor. This experience can lead to shift supervisor roles.
• Phlebotomy or EKG Certification: Adding these skills (often available through Blinn College or online programs) can make you eligible for higher-paying roles in clinics or hospital outpatient departments, moving you toward a Patient Care Technician (PCT) role.

Advancement Paths:

1. Patient Care Technician (PCT): Many hospitals hire CNAs internally as PCTs, which involves more advanced skills (like drawing blood, starting IVs). This can come with a $2-$4/hour raise.
2. Medical Assistant (MA): With additional schooling (typically a 1-year diploma program at Blinn College), a CNA can become an MA, with a significant salary bump (often $40,000+).
3. Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN): The most common path. A 1-year LVN program at Blinn College prepares you for a salary increase to $45,000-$55,000 locally. Many local CNAs pursue this.
4. Registered Nurse (RN): The ultimate goal for many. A 2-year Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) from Blinn College or a 4-year BSN from Texas A&M's College of Nursing leads to a median salary of $75,000+ in this region.

10-Year Outlook:
The 4% job growth for CNAs aligns with the national trend, but the real opportunity lies in the aging of the Bryan-College Station population. The demand for geriatric care will remain strong. Furthermore, the Texas A&M Health Science Center is expanding, which may create new research and clinical support roles. The most successful CNAs will be those who leverage local educational resources (Blinn, A&M) to specialize and advance. The ceiling is high for those willing to invest in further education.

The Verdict: Is College Station Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $34,762 salary goes much further here than in major metros.	Limited Job Market: Only ~250 positions; competition for the best jobs can be stiff.
Stable Employment: Major employers like CHI St. Joseph provide consistent opportunities.	Modest Growth: 4% job growth is steady but not explosive; career advancement often requires more education.
Strong Educational Pipeline: Easy access to affordable CNA-to-LVN-to-RN programs at Blinn College.	Traffic & Congestion: Game days and academic events can severely disrupt commutes.
Community Feel: A smaller, more personal city compared to Houston or Dallas.	Cultural/Entertainment Options: Limited compared to larger cities; can feel slow for some.
No State Income Tax: Keeps more of your paycheck in your pocket.	Dependent on University Economy: The city's pulse is tied to Texas A&M; it can feel empty during breaks.

Final Recommendation:
College Station is an excellent choice for a pragmatic, career-focused CNA who is either just starting out or planning to advance their education. It is ideal for those who value financial stability, a lower-pressure environment, and a clear, affordable path to becoming an LVN or RN. It's less suitable for someone seeking a fast-paced, high-energy urban lifestyle with a vast array of entertainment and dining options. If your goal is to build a solid foundation in healthcare without drowning in debt or high living costs, College Station offers a compelling and realistic opportunity.

FAQs

1. Is it easy to find a job as a new CNA graduate in College Station?
Yes, but you need to be proactive. The best strategy is to apply for jobs 2-3 weeks before you finish your training. Many employers, especially nursing homes, hire students in anticipation of their graduation. Having a job lined up on day one you're eligible to work is crucial. Attend job fairs at Blinn College; CHI St. Joseph and local nursing homes often recruit there.

2. How is the work-life balance for CNAs here?
It varies by employer. Hospital jobs (St. Joseph, Baylor) often involve 12-hour shifts, which can mean working 3-4 days a week, offering more consecutive days off. Nursing homes typically have 8-hour shifts but may require every other weekend. Home health offers the most flexibility but the least stability. If you value weekends off, target outpatient clinics like BVSHW.

3. What's the biggest challenge for CNAs moving to College Station?
The biggest challenge is often the initial housing search. The rental market is tight, especially from May to August when students lease apartments. Plan to start your housing search at least 60 days before your move. Many new CNAs start with a 6-month sublease from a student to get their bearings before finding a long-term place.

4. Do I need my own car?
Absolutely. Public transportation (B-Line) is limited and not reliable for shift work. Most jobs are spread across Bryan and