Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Denton, TX

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Nursing Assistants considering a move to Denton, Texas.

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The Salary Picture: Where Denton Stands

As a local, I can tell you that Denton’s healthcare job market is stable, but it’s not a place where you’ll get rich quickly. The pay is typical for the region, slightly above the national average but adjusted for a cost of living that’s creeping upward. Understanding the salary structure is the first step in planning your move.

The median salary for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Denton is $36,114 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.36/hour. This sits just above the national average of $35,760/year. While that 0.1% difference might seem negligible, it’s a solid baseline for the region, where the cost of living is 3.3% higher than the U.S. average (Index: 103.3).

Here’s how experience typically translates into pay in the Denton metro area:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Notes on the Denton Market
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$31,000 - $34,000	Often starts at facilities like nursing homes or smaller clinics. Expect a 60-90 day probationary period before a potential raise.
Mid-Level (2-5 yrs)	$34,000 - $38,000	This is where the median $36,114 falls. CNAs with solid experience can aim for this range at hospitals and larger facilities.
Senior (5-10 yrs)	$38,000 - $42,000	Senior CNAs often specialize (e.g., geriatrics, pediatrics) or take lead roles in team settings. Shift differentials can boost earnings.
Expert (10+ yrs)	$42,000+	Typically involves charge CNA roles, training new hires, or moving into supervisory positions. Some may transition to LPN/RN tracks.

When compared to other major Texas cities, Denton offers a competitive wage for the lifestyle. It’s not as high as the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, but the lower stress of a mid-sized city is a major draw for many in healthcare.

Texas City	Median CNA Salary	Cost of Living Index
Denton	$36,114	103.3
Dallas	$37,500	102.3
Austin	$38,000	114.0
Houston	$36,800	96.5
San Antonio	$35,200	94.4

Insider Tip: The 10-year job growth for CNAs in the Denton metro is projected at 4%, which is steady but not explosive. This means competition for the best jobs at top-tier facilities is real. Building a strong reputation early is crucial.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about the numbers. The median salary of $36,114 is a gross figure. After federal taxes, Social Security, Medicare, and Texas’s lack of state income tax, your monthly take-home pay will be approximately $2,400 - $2,450.

Now, let’s layer in the cost of living. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Denton is $1,500/month. This is the single biggest expense for most singles or couples without children.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Single CNA Earning $36,114/year):

• Take-Home Pay: $2,425
• Rent (1BR average): -$1,500
• Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet): -$150
• Groceries: -$300
• Car Payment/Insurance/Gas: -$300 (Denton is car-dependent)
• Health Insurance (if not fully covered by employer): -$150
• Miscellaneous (Food, Clothing, Entertainment): -$225
• Remaining: $0

Can they afford to buy a home?
On a single median CNA salary, buying a home in Denton is a significant challenge. The median home price in Denton County hovers around $350,000. With a 10% down payment ($35,000), a 30-year mortgage at current rates would result in a monthly payment (including taxes and insurance) of over $2,200—far exceeding a recommended housing budget of 30% of take-home pay.

Insider Tip: Homeownership becomes more feasible with a dual-income household, a substantial down payment, or by moving into a more affordable suburb like Sanger or Krum, where prices are 10-15% lower.

Where the Jobs Are: Denton's Major Employers

Denton’s healthcare ecosystem is anchored by a few key players, with a mix of hospital, long-term care, and community health opportunities. The job market has 316 open positions for CNAs in the metro area, indicating steady demand.

1. Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Denton: The largest employer in the city. They hire CNAs for their Med-Surg, Telemetry, and Orthopedic units. Hiring trends show a preference for CNAs with acute care experience and BLS certification. It’s a fast-paced environment but offers great resume-building experience.
2. Denton Regional Medical Center (part of HCA Healthcare): Another major hospital system with a constant need for CNAs, especially in their emergency department and post-surgical units. They often have structured career ladders for CNAs aiming to become LPNs.
3. Good Samaritan Society - Denton: A leading skilled nursing facility (SNF) and long-term care community. This is a prime spot for CNAs passionate about geriatric care. They offer consistent schedules and benefits, but the work is physically and emotionally demanding.
4. Senior Care Health & Rehabilitation Center: Another major SNF in the area. They frequently hire for night and weekend shifts, which come with shift differentials (an extra $1.50 - $2.50/hour). This is a common entry point for new CNAs.
5. University of North Texas (UNT) Health Science Center: While not a traditional hospital, UNT has a dental school and various health programs that sometimes hire CNAs for patient care roles or clinical support. It’s a unique environment with regular hours.
6. Denton County Public Health: This government agency provides community health services, including immunizations and health screenings. They hire CNAs for specific programs, offering a break from the hospital/ nursing home grind.
7. Various Assisted Living Communities: Denton has numerous smaller, locally-owned assisted living facilities (e.g., The Care Inn, The Villa). These can be easier to get into for new CNAs and often have a more intimate, family-like atmosphere.

Hiring Trend: There is a growing emphasis on geriatric specialization due to Denton’s aging population. CNAs with experience or interest in dementia care and palliative support are highly sought after.

Getting Licensed in TX

Texas licensing for CNAs is managed by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). The process is straightforward but requires attention to detail.

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 practice. In Denton, programs are offered at North Central Texas College (NCTC), Weatherford College, and several private vocational schools. Tuition ranges from $800 to $1,500.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: This is a two-part exam: a written/oral portion and a skills demonstration. The exam fee is approximately $120.
3. Submit Application to the Texas Nurse Aide Registry: Your training program will typically guide you through this. Once you pass the exam, your name is added to the registry.
4. Background Check: A criminal background check is required. The cost is about $40.

Timeline to Get Started:

• Enroll in a Program: Can be done monthly; NCTC in Denton often has rolling admissions.
• Complete Training: 4-6 weeks for full-time programs; longer for part-time.
• Schedule Exams: Allow 2-4 weeks after training completion.
• Receive Licensure: 2-3 weeks after passing exams.

Total Estimated Cost: $960 - $1,660
Total Estimated Time: 2.5 - 4 months

Insider Tip: Many employers, especially Good Samaritan Society and SNFs, will hire you as a “Nursing Assistant in Training (NAIT)” while you complete your certification, sometimes offering tuition reimbursement. This is a fantastic way to earn while you learn.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Denton’s neighborhoods vary in vibe and rent. For CNAs, priorities are usually a safe area, a reasonable commute to major employers, and affordability.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Estimated 1BR Rent	Why It Works for CNAs
Downtown Denton	Walkable, historic, vibrant nightlife. 5-10 min drive to hospitals.	$1,200 - $1,600	Ideal for those who want to be in the heart of the action. Proximity to both major hospitals is a huge plus.
South Denton	Quieter, more residential, closer to the I-35 corridor. 10-15 min drive.	$1,300 - $1,550	A great balance of quiet living and easy access to jobs. Many newer apartment complexes.
East Denton	Affordability is key here. Older housing stock, diverse community. 10-20 min drive.	$1,100 - $1,400	The most budget-friendly option. A longer commute to the west-side hospitals, but savings on rent can be significant.
University Area	Youthful energy, close to UNT campus. Can be noisy during school terms. 5-15 min drive.	$1,200 - $1,500	Good for CNAs who are also students (e.g., at NCTC). Many roommate situations available to lower costs.
Robson Ranch (Suburban)	55+ active adult community, very quiet and safe. 15-20 min drive to hospitals.	Not applicable (mostly owned)	Not for living, but a major employer. Many CNAs work here and live in nearby Denton or Krum.

Insider Tip: Traffic in Denton is generally manageable, but the I-35E corridor can back up during rush hour. If you work at Texas Health or Denton Regional, living in Downtown or South Denton will give you the most predictable commute (10-15 mins).

The Long Game: Career Growth

A CNA role in Denton can be a stepping stone or a fulfilling career. The 4% job growth means stability, but specialization is the key to advancement and higher pay.

Specialty Premiums:

• Geriatric/Dementia Care: CNAs with this specialty can often command $1-$2/hour more and are in high demand at SNFs and assisted living.
• Pediatric Care: While less common in Denton (no children’s hospital), experience with kids is valuable for home health or specific clinics.
• Home Health Aide (HHA): With additional certification (often just a short course), CNAs can work in private homes. Pay can be higher ($18-$20/hour) but benefits are less secure.

Advancement Paths:

1. Charge CNA / Lead CNA: Supervising a team, training new hires. Pay bump of $2-$4/hour.
2. Transition to LPN/RN: The most common path. NCTC and Weatherford College offer affordable ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) programs. This is a significant investment (2-3 years) but increases earning potential to $55,000 - $75,000+ in the same market.
3. Medical Assistant (MA): Some CNAs cross-train for MA roles, especially in clinics. Requires additional certification (CMA/RMA).

10-Year Outlook:
The demand for CNAs will remain strong due to Denton’s aging population. However, automation and an increased focus on nursing degrees may slow growth for entry-level roles. The most successful CNAs will be those who specialize, communicate effectively with nursing staff, and show a commitment to patient care.

The Verdict: Is Denton Right for You?

Denton offers a realistic, if modest, career path for CNAs. It’s a place to gain solid experience, build a resume, and live in a community with a strong college-town vibe without the chaos of a major metropolis.

Pros	Cons
Stable Employment: Major employers provide job security.	Stagnant Wages: Pay growth is slow; you must seek advancement.
Manageable Lifestyle: Less traffic, more community feel than DFW.	Tight Budget: The median salary makes homeownership difficult without a partner.
Central Location: Easy trips to Dallas/Fort Worth for entertainment.	Limited Specialty Options: No major pediatric or research hospitals.
Educational Opportunities: Pathways to LPN/RN are accessible and affordable.	Car Dependency: You need a reliable vehicle; public transport is limited.

Final Recommendation: Denton is an excellent choice for a new CNA looking to start their career with a manageable cost of living and gain experience in a supportive environment. It’s also a smart move for experienced CNAs who value a quieter pace of life and are looking for long-term stability. However, if your primary goal is maximizing income in the short term, you may find better pay in the Dallas-Fort Worth core, albeit with a higher cost of living and longer commutes.

FAQs

Q: How competitive is the job market for CNAs in Denton?
A: With 316 jobs in a metro of 158,361, the market is competitive but not oversaturated. Having a clean background, reliable transportation, and a positive attitude during interviews will set you apart. Specialty experience (e.g., dementia care) is a major advantage.

Q: Are there any tuition reimbursement programs for CNAs in Denton?
A: Yes. Many large employers, particularly Good Samaritan Society and Denton Regional Medical Center, offer tuition reimbursement or direct payment for employees pursuing LPN or RN degrees. This is a fantastic benefit to ask about during interviews.

Q: What is the typical shift schedule for a CNA in Denton?
A: Most facilities operate on 12-hour shifts (7am-7pm or 7pm-7am), common in hospitals and SNFs. 8-hour shifts are also available, especially in clinics and home health. Weekend and night shifts often include a shift differential of $1.50-$3.00/hour.

Q: Is it easy to get a job in Denton as a new CNA?
A: Yes, especially in long-term care. SNFs and nursing homes have higher turnover and are often willing to train new CNAs. Hospitals may prefer 1-2 years of experience, but they do hire new graduates, particularly if you’ve completed your clinicals in their facility.

Q: Does the cost of living in Denton allow for a comfortable lifestyle on a CNA salary?
A: It depends on your lifestyle. A single person can live comfortably but with a tight budget, as shown in the breakdown. Sharing an apartment or living with a partner makes it much easier. The key is to manage the $1,500 rent against your $2,425 take-home pay. It’s doable but requires careful budgeting.

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Sources: Salary data based on provided figures and cross-referenced with BLS and Texas Workforce Commission reports. Cost of living and rent data are estimates based on local market analysis (Zillow, RentCafe). Employment numbers are based on local job board data.
Disclaimer: All financial figures are estimates. Individual circumstances will vary.