The Complete Career Guide for Nursing Assistants in Fargo, ND

Fargo is a unique hub in the Northern Plains—part Midwestern grit, part booming economic center. For a Nursing Assistant (CNA), it offers a stable, affordable living with a strong healthcare network, but it’s not a high-roller market. If you’re considering a move here, this guide will give you the unvarnished facts. We’re talking real rents, real salaries, and the specific employers who are actually hiring. This isn’t a brochure; it’s a blueprint.

This guide is built for the CNA who wants to understand their day-to-day reality in Fargo: the paycheck, the commute, the career ladder, and whether the lifestyle fits. Let’s get into the numbers.

The Salary Picture: Where Fargo Stands

Let’s cut to the chase: CNA pay in Fargo is modest, but the low cost of living makes it manageable. The median salary for a Nursing Assistant in the Fargo metro area is $34,622/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $16.65/hour. For context, the national average for this role is $35,760/year. You’re slightly below the national median, but that’s typical for the Upper Midwest. The key is the ratio of pay to expenses.

The 10-year job growth projection is 4%, which is steady but not explosive. With 264 jobs currently in the metro, you’re looking at a stable, competitive market. There’s always demand in healthcare, but you’ll need to be proactive.

Here’s how pay typically breaks down by experience level in this market. Note that these are estimates based on local job postings and industry trends; the median $34,622 sits squarely in the mid-level range.

Experience-Level Salary Breakdown

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Notes
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$30,000 - $32,500	Often starts in long-term care. Certifications are key.
Mid-Level (2-5 years)	$34,000 - $36,500	This is the median range. Shift differentials add to this.
Senior/Lead CNA (5-10 years)	$37,000 - $40,000	Often involves training, charge duties, or specialization.
Expert/Specialized (10+ years)	$40,500+	Can include clinical specialties, home health, or management tracks.

Insider Tip: The biggest pay bumps come from shift differentials. Working nights (7p-7a) or weekends can add $2-$4/hour to your base rate. In Fargo, where many hospitals run 24/7, this is a common and reliable way to increase your take-home. A CNA on nights at $16.65 could easily pull in $19+/hour.

Fargo vs. Other North Dakota Cities

Fargo is the state’s largest metro, but it’s not the most expensive. Bismarck and Grand Forks are comparable, while oil-country hubs like Williston or Minot had higher pay during the boom but are more volatile. Fargo offers the most job stability and variety.

City	Median Salary	Cost of Living Index	Job Market Stability
Fargo	$34,622	89.4	High (Healthcare, Education, Tech)
Bismarck	~$34,000	~88	High (State Government, Healthcare)
Grand Forks	~$33,500	~85	Medium (University, AFB, Healthcare)
Minot	~$35,500	~92	Medium (Oil, Military, Healthcare)

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The Cost of Living Index for Fargo is 89.4 (US average = 100), meaning your dollar goes about 10.6% further than the national average. The average 1BR rent is $781/month. Let’s see what a monthly budget looks like for a CNA earning the median $34,622/year.

Assumptions:

• Gross Pay: $34,622 / 12 = $2,885/month
• Taxes (Federal + FICA + State ND ~20%): ~$577/month
• Net Take-Home: ~$2,308/month

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Median CNA)

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR Average)	$781	You can find lower in older parts of town, higher near hospitals.
Utilities (Elec, Heat, Water, Internet)	$200	North Dakota winters mean higher heating bills.
Groceries	$300	For one person; shopping at local chains like Hornbacher’s or Cash Wise.
Car Payment/Insurance/Gas	$350	Essential. Fargo is spread out; public transit is limited.
Health Insurance	$150	Employer-sponsored plans vary.
Personal/Discretionary	$200	Entertainment, clothing, misc.
Total Expenses	$1,981
Remaining / Savings	~$327

Can they afford to buy a home? It’s challenging but possible on a single CNA income at the median level. The median home price in Fargo is around $260,000. A 20% down payment is $52,000. With a monthly surplus of ~$327, saving for a down payment would take over a decade unless you have dual income, significant overtime, or a substantial career jump. However, the low cost of living makes renting very comfortable, and many CNAs partner with a higher-earning spouse or roommate to buy. It’s more realistic to view homeownership as a long-term goal after advancing in your career.

Where the Jobs Are: Fargo's Major Employers

Fargo’s healthcare sector is anchored by a few major players and a robust network of long-term care facilities. Hiring is continuous, especially for weekend and night shifts.

1. Sanford Health: The largest employer in the region. Their Sanford Medical Center is a major hospital in South Fargo. They also operate numerous Sanford Senior Care (long-term care) facilities throughout the area. Hiring trends are strong, with a focus on CNAs for both hospital and senior living roles. They offer tuition reimbursement for further certifications.
2. Essentia Health: The other major hospital system, with Essentia Health-Fargo (formerly Dakota Hospital) on the north side of the Red River. They have a strong presence in both acute care and their Essentia Health Senior Care centers. They often seek CNAs with experience in dementia care.
3. Eventide Lutheran Home & Assisted Living: A top-tier senior living provider with multiple locations in Fargo-Moorhead (e.g., Eventide on 9th). Known for good culture and benefits. They frequently hire for CNA roles in their assisted living and memory care units.
4. Bethany Retirement Living: Another large, faith-based senior care provider with campuses in Fargo and surrounding areas. They offer independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing. Stable employer with a focus on long-term staff.
5. Elim Care: Operates Elim Fargo, a skilled nursing and rehab facility. A common first-stop for new CNAs entering the market. They have a constant need for staff, especially for weekend and night shifts.
6. Home Health Agencies (e.g., Home Instead, Comfort Keepers): For CNAs who prefer one-on-one care over facility settings. This path offers more flexible scheduling but often less consistent hours and no benefits. Good for gaining diverse experience.
7. Fargo Public Schools: While not a healthcare employer, the school district hires CNAs for paraprofessional roles to support students with medical needs. This offers a daytime, weekday schedule and summers off—a major lifestyle perk.

Insider Tip: The biggest hiring waves happen in late summer (preparing for winter) and post-holiday (January). Don’t be afraid to apply directly on the hospital’s career page; many facilities use internal staffing agencies first.

Getting Licensed in ND

North Dakota’s licensing process is straightforward but requires attention to detail. The state falls under the North Dakota Board of Nursing. There’s no separate “CNA” license; you are a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) on the state’s Nurse Aide Registry.

Requirements:

1. Complete an Approved Training Program: You must complete a state-approved CNA training program (typically 75-100 hours). Many local community colleges (like NDSCS in Wahpeton, just south of Fargo) and private schools in Fargo offer these.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After training, you must pass the state’s written and skills exam. The exam is administered by Headmaster (a Pearson VUE company). The cost is approximately $100-$125.
3. Background Check: A criminal background check is mandatory.
4. Registry Listing: Once you pass, you are placed on the North Dakota Nurse Aide Registry. Employers verify your status here.

Timeline & Cost:

• Training Program: 4-8 weeks (varies by schedule). Cost ranges from $800 - $1,500. Some employers (like Sanford) offer tuition reimbursement if you commit to working for them for a set period (e.g., 1 year).
• Total Time to Get Certified: 2-3 months from start to being on the registry.
• Key Resource: Always check the latest on the North Dakota Board of Nursing website for approved programs and exam details.

Insider Tip: If you’re already a CNA from another state, North Dakota has a reciprocity process. You can apply to have your out-of-state certification transferred if you’re in good standing. It’s faster and cheaper than starting over.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Fargo is a driving city. Where you live affects your commute, especially if you work odd hours. Here are four neighborhoods that balance cost, convenience, and lifestyle for a healthcare worker.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg. 1BR Rent	Best For
North Fargo (Near NDSU)	Collegiate, energetic, central. 10-15 min drive to Essentia Health. Near downtown bars & restaurants.	$750 - $850	CNAs with roommates or who want a social scene. Easy access to Essentia.
South Fargo (Sanford Area)	Suburban, family-oriented, quiet. 10-15 min drive to Sanford Medical Center. Newer apartments, big-box stores.	$800 - $950	Those working at Sanford or who prefer a quieter home base. More car-dependent.
West Fargo	Growing, affordable, community-focused. 15-20 min drive to either hospital system. More single-family homes.	$700 - $825	Budget-conscious CNAs. Great for building long-term roots.
Downtown/Moorhead	Historic, walkable, artsy. 5-10 min to Eventide or Bethany facilities. Older apartments with character.	$775 - $900	CNAs who value walkability and want a shorter commute to senior living facilities.

Insider Tip: If you work nights, consider your parking and safety. Well-lit complexes in South Fargo or West Fargo are often preferred for night-shift workers. Also, be mindful of the Red River. Moorhead, MN (across the river) can be more affordable, but you must consider the state income tax difference (ND has a flat tax; MN has a graduated system).

The Long Game: Career Growth

A CNA role in Fargo is a solid foundation, but the path upward requires additional education. The 10-year outlook with 4% growth is stable, but advancement can outpace that.

• Specialty Premiums: CNAs who gain experience in dementia care, rehabilitation, or hospice can often negotiate a higher starting rate or shift to roles with more responsibility. For example, a CNA in a specialized memory care unit might earn $17-$18/hour as a starting rate.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse): The most common next step. Local programs like those at NDSCS or Rasmussen University take 12-18 months. An LPN in Fargo earns a median of $25-$28/hour (~$52,000-$58,000/year).
  2. RN (Registered Nurse): Requires an Associate’s (ADN) or Bachelor’s (BSN) degree. The return on investment is significant. RNs in Fargo earn a median of $38-$42/hour (~$79,000-$87,000/year).
  3. Non-Clinical Roles: Experienced CNAs can move into scheduling, staff training, or supply coordination within large systems like Sanford or Essentia.
• 10-Year Outlook: The demand for healthcare workers will remain strong due to an aging population. The key to growth is education. The CNA role is a launchpad. Within 5-10 years, a motivated CNA who completes an LPN or RN program will see their income double or triple, making homeownership and financial stability very achievable.

The Verdict: Is Fargo Right for You?

Fargo offers a practical, stable career path for a CNA. It’s not a place to get rich quickly, but it’s a place to build a life. The community is tight-knit, the cost of living is forgiving, and the healthcare system is robust.

Pros	Cons
Low cost of living allows a comfortable standard of living on a CNA salary.	Salaries are below the national average; advancement requires further education.
High job stability in healthcare with many major employers.	Harsh winters (Oct-Apr) can be isolating and challenging for newcomers.
Clear paths for career advancement via local colleges and employer tuition benefits.	Car-dependent city; limited public transit, which adds to monthly costs.
Strong sense of community and family-friendly environment.	Slower pace of life; lacks the cultural variety of a major coastal city.

Final Recommendation: Fargo is an excellent choice for a CNA who is practical, community-oriented, and motivated to advance their education. If you value job security, affordable housing, and a straightforward lifestyle, it’s a great fit. If you’re seeking high-energy nightlife, diverse cultural scenes, or a fast-paced career climb without additional schooling, you may find it limiting.

FAQs

1. Can I transfer my CNA license from another state to North Dakota?
Yes. North Dakota has a reciprocity process. If you’re listed in good standing on another state’s registry, you can apply for placement on the ND Nurse Aide Registry by submitting the required forms and a copy of your current certificate. Contact the North Dakota Board of Nursing for the specific application.

2. How competitive is the job market for new CNAs in Fargo?
It’s moderately competitive. With 264 jobs in the metro, there are openings, but many employers prefer candidates with some experience. Your best bet is to apply for roles in long-term care facilities (like Elim or Eventide) as they often hire new graduates and offer on-the-job training. Being willing to work nights and weekends significantly increases your chances.

3. What’s the weather really like, and how does it affect my commute?
Winters are long and cold, with frequent snow and ice. You must have a reliable, all-wheel-drive or front-wheel-drive vehicle with good tires. Commute times can double during major snowfalls. Factor in the cost of winter clothing and car maintenance. Summers are gorgeous and mild, making the hardship worth it for many locals.

4. Is it better to work at a hospital or a nursing home in Fargo?
It depends on your goals. Hospitals (Sanford, Essentia) offer more varied patient care (rehab, acute, outpatient), better benefits, and clearer paths to clinical specialties. Nursing homes (Eventide, Bethany, Elim) often provide a more consistent routine, stronger focus on geriatric care, and can be less hectic. Hospitals usually pay slightly more but have more rigid scheduling.

5. How important is vehicle ownership in Fargo?
Absolutely essential. The city is spread out, and public transportation (MATBUS) is limited, especially for early morning or late-night shifts. Most CNA jobs do not offer on-site parking for all staff, so you’ll need to be able to drive in all weather conditions. Budget for a car payment, insurance, gas, and winter maintenance.

*Data sources referenced: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for national averages, North Dakota Job Service for local job data, North Dakota Board of Nursing for licensing, local rental listings (Zillow, Apartments.com), and cost of living indices (Sperling