Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Enid, OK

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s considering a move to Enid, Oklahoma.

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The Salary Picture: Where Enid Stands

As a CNA in Enid, you're looking at a market that offers a lower cost of living but also wages that sit slightly below the national average. Understanding this balance is key to planning your finances. According to the most recent data, the median annual salary for a Nursing Assistant in the Enid metro area is $34,268, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $16.48. For context, the national average salary for this role is $35,760.

The job market itself is relatively modest but stable. There are approximately 101 jobs for Nursing Assistants in the metro area. The 10-year job growth projection for this field is 4%, which is consistent with the national outlook. This indicates a steady demand, largely driven by the aging population and the consistent need for long-term care facilities and hospitals.

Experience-Level Breakdown

While the median is a useful benchmark, salaries in Enid do vary with experience. Here’s a realistic breakdown based on local hiring patterns:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Notes
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$30,000 - $32,500	Typically starts in nursing homes or as a hospital aide.
Mid-Level (3-5 years)	$33,500 - $36,000	Preference for hospital shifts (e.g., Integris Bass Baptist) or supervisory roles in LTC.
Senior (6-9 years)	$36,500 - $39,000	Often leads to specialist roles (e.g., hospice aide, dialysis tech) or charge aide positions.
Expert (10+ years)	$39,500+	Can involve agency work, teaching CNA classes, or manager roles in smaller facilities.

Comparison to Other Oklahoma Cities

Enid's salary is competitive within the context of Oklahoma's lower cost of living. Compared to larger metro areas, the trade-off is evident.

City	Median Salary (CNA)	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)
Enid, OK	$34,268	86.1
Oklahoma City, OK	~$36,000	92.5
Tulsa, OK	~$35,500	94.0
Tulsa, OK	~$35,500	94.0
National Average	$35,760	100

Enid's lower cost of living index means your $16.48/hour goes further here than it would in Oklahoma City or Tulsa, even if the nominal wage is slightly lower.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get practical. With a median annual salary of $34,268, your monthly take-home pay (after estimated federal and Oklahoma state taxes) will be roughly $2,200 to $2,300. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Enid is $760/month. This leaves a comfortable buffer for other expenses.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a CNA Earning $34,268:

• Gross Monthly Pay: ~$2,855
• Estimated Taxes (Federal & State): ~$570
• Net Monthly Pay: ~$2,285
• Rent (1BR Average): $760
• Remaining for Utilities, Food, Car, Insurance, Savings: $1,525

This is a manageable budget. Utilities (electric, water, internet) might run $150-$200, a groceries budget of $300 is reasonable, and a car payment/insurance of $400 is standard. This still leaves room for savings.

Can they afford to buy a home? Yes, absolutely. With a 10% down payment, a home in Enid's median price range (around $150,000) would have a mortgage payment comparable to rent. Lenders will look at your debt-to-income ratio, and with a stable CNA salary and low area home prices, homeownership is a realistic goal for many CNAs in Enid within a few years of starting.

Where the Jobs Are: Enid's Major Employers

Enid's healthcare ecosystem is centered around a few key institutions. Knowing where to look is half the battle.

1. Integris Bass Baptist Health Center: The largest hospital in the area. They hire CNAs for Med/Surg, Telemetry, and potentially the ER. Hiring is steady, often tied to seasonal needs. Insider Tip: They frequently post jobs on their internal career portal first. Knowing someone on the inside can help.
2. St. Mary's Regional Medical Center: The other major hospital. They have a strong focus on surgical services and maternity, meaning CNAs might find roles in post-partum or recovery. It’s a Level III Trauma Center, so there’s consistent demand.
3. The Enid Nursing & Rehabilitation Center: A large, long-term care facility that is one of the biggest employers of CNAs in the city. They often have multiple openings and offer full-time benefits. It's a classic starting point for new CNAs.
4. Golden Ours Homelike: A respected assisted living and memory care facility. This is a great option for CNAs who prefer a less acute care environment. Hiring trends here often pick up before winter.
5. Home Health Agencies (e.g., Enid Home Health): If you prefer autonomy, home health is a growing field. These agencies employ CNAs for in-home care, often on a flexible schedule. Pay can be slightly higher per hour but may lack consistent 40-hour weeks.
6. Specialized Clinics & Dialysis Centers: DaVita or Fresenius Medical Care have a presence in Enid. These roles require specific training but offer a premium wage and a predictable, non-hospital schedule.

Hiring Trends: Most facilities experience a surge in hiring during the fall and winter months to prepare for flu season and the holiday season, when permanent staff may take vacation.

Getting Licensed in OK

Oklahoma's licensing process is straightforward but requires attention to detail.

1. Complete an Approved Training Program: You must complete a state-approved CNA training program. In Enid, these are primarily offered at Autry Technology Center and Northwestern Oklahoma State University's Enid campus. Program costs range from $500 to $800.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After training, you must pass the Oklahoma State Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation. This consists of a written (or oral) exam and a skills demonstration. The total exam fee is approximately $100-$125.
3. Submit Application to the State Registry: Once you pass the exam, you apply for your CNA certificate through the Oklahoma Department of Health. There is a small application fee.
4. Timeline: From start to finish, you can expect the process to take 3 to 6 months. The training programs themselves are typically 4-8 weeks long, depending on the schedule.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Enid is a very drivable city, but choosing the right neighborhood can simplify your commute and fit your lifestyle.

• The Medical District (Near Integris): This area is perfect for maximizing sleep. It's a short 5-10 minute drive or even a bike ride to the hospital. It's a mix of older, established homes and some newer apartments. Rent for a 1BR is closer to $780-$820.
• North Enid (North of Broadway): A quieter, more residential area favored by families. Commute to the hospitals is about 10-15 minutes. You'll find more single-family home rentals here, with 1BR apartments averaging $740-$780.
• Downtown Enid: The revitalized downtown area offers a walkable lifestyle with cafes and the historic Enid Symphony. It's a 10-minute drive to both major hospitals. Rent here can be slightly higher due to demand, at $800-$900 for a 1BR in a renovated building.
• East Enid (Near the Broadway/Grand Ave Corridor): Affordable and convenient with easy access to shopping and dining. A 10-minute commute to St. Mary's and 15 to Integris. 1BR apartments are very affordable here, typically $700-$750.
• South Enid: This area is closer to the Enid Nursing & Rehab center and offers a mix of older neighborhoods and newer developments. It's a straightforward commute to most employers. Expect 1BR rents around $730-$770.

The Long Game: Career Growth

While the base growth is stable at 4%, specialization is where CNAs in Enid can increase their earnings and job satisfaction.

• Specialty Premiums: Obtaining additional certifications can lead to higher pay. For example, a CNA with a Dialysis Technician certification can see a wage premium of $2-$4/hour. Similarly, becoming a Medication Aide (CMA) after gaining experience is a direct path to a higher wage and more responsibility.
• Advancement Paths: The most common path is to become a Charge Aide (supervising other CNAs on a shift). From there, some pursue further education to become an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) or RN (Registered Nurse). Enid's community colleges have bridge programs specifically for this.
• 10-Year Outlook: The aging population in Oklahoma will continue to drive demand. In 10 years, the number of jobs in Enid may see a slight increase beyond the current 101, but the key will be the growth in home health and long-term care roles, which are less volatile than hospital positions during economic downturns.

The Verdict: Is Enid Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Very low cost of living. Your paycheck stretches far.	Limited specialty roles. You may need to commute or wait for openings in niche areas.
Stable, predictable job market with major employers.	Lower wages compared to national average.
Short, easy commutes to all major healthcare facilities.	Smaller city with fewer entertainment and cultural options than OKC or Tulsa.
Strong sense of community—you'll know your patients and coworkers.	Healthcare system can feel less cutting-edge than in larger metros.
A great place to buy a home early in your career.	Public transportation is limited, so a reliable car is a must.

Final Recommendation: Enid is an excellent choice for a CNA who values financial stability, a low-stress pace of life, and a strong sense of community. It is ideal for those starting their career, raising a family, or looking to save money to buy a home. It may not be the best fit for a CNA seeking the highest possible salary or the most diverse range of healthcare specialties without a commute.

FAQs

Q: How competitive is the job market for new CNAs in Enid?
A: It's moderately competitive. New graduates from Autry Tech and Northwestern typically find jobs within a few months. Having your certification in hand before applying is crucial. Networking during clinicals is your best advantage.

Q: Is it worth it to work for a home health agency in Enid?
A: It can be, especially if you value flexibility. The hourly rate is often slightly higher than $16.48. However, hours may not be guaranteed, and you are responsible for your own mileage. It's best for supplemental income or as a primary job if you manage your schedule well.

Q: What’s the biggest challenge for a CNA new to Enid?
A: Adjusting to the slower pace can be a surprise for those from larger cities. The patient population is very community-focused, and you'll often treat the same families for years. It can be rewarding but requires a patient, personable demeanor.

Q: Are there opportunities for overtime?
A: Yes, especially at the major hospitals (Integris and St. Mary's) and the larger nursing homes like Enid Nursing & Rehab. Overtime is common during flu season and can significantly boost your income.

Q: What should I prioritize when moving to Enid as a CNA?
A: Secure your Oklahoma CNA license first. Then, focus on finding housing near your potential workplace to minimize commute stress. Start applying to jobs before you move, if possible, by connecting with hiring managers on LinkedIn or by phone.

Data Sources referenced: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Oklahoma Department of Health, Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, Zillow Rent Data, BestPlaces Cost of Living Index.