Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Great Falls, MT

Of course. Here is a comprehensive career guide for Nursing Assistant (CNAs) in Great Falls, Montana.

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The Salary Picture: Where Great Falls Stands

As a CNA considering Great Falls, you need to understand the local wage landscape. It's a mid-sized city with a focused economy, which shapes compensation differently than in larger hubs. The median salary for a Nursing Assistant in Great Falls is $34,966/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $16.81/hour. It's important to recognize that this is slightly below the national average of $35,760/year. However, the lower cost of living often offsets this difference.

The job market here is stable but not booming. With a metro population of 60,412, there are approximately 120 CNA positions in the area. The 10-year job growth projection is 4%, indicating steady, not explosive, opportunities. You're looking at a reliable career path, not a high-turnover market.

To give you a clearer picture of potential earnings as you gain experience, here’s a breakdown of salary expectations:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Context in Great Falls
Entry-Level (0-1 years)	$31,469 - $33,217	Starting wages at long-term care facilities, some hospital per-diem roles.
Mid-Level (2-5 years)	$34,966 - $36,800	This is the local median. Secured at major employers like Benefis Health System.
Senior (5-10 years)	$37,500 - $40,000	Often includes shift differentials, charge CNA roles, or specialty units (dementia, rehab).
Expert/Specialized (10+ years)	$40,000+	Typically requires additional certifications (e.g., Restorative Nurse Aide) or supervisory duties.

How does Great Falls compare to other Montana cities? While it's not the top-paying market, its affordability makes it competitive.

Montana City	Median CNA Salary	Average 1BR Rent	Cost of Living Index
Great Falls	$34,966	$745	92.6
Billings	$36,200	$850	96.5
Missoula	$35,800	$950	101.2
Bozeman	$37,500	$1,250	110.5

As you can see, Bozeman offers the highest salary but has a cost of living over 10% above the U.S. average. Great Falls, with a 92.6 index, provides more purchasing power for your paycheck.

Insider Tip:

Don't just look at the base hourly rate. Great Falls hospitals and nursing homes often offer shift differentials for evenings (+$1.00-$2.00/hr), nights (+$1.50-$2.50/hr), and weekends. This can add $2,000-$4,000 to your annual income, pushing you well above the median if you work non-standard hours.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's be practical. A gross salary of $34,966 doesn't equal $34,966 in your bank account. For a single filer in 2023 (assuming no dependents and taking the standard deduction), federal and FICA taxes would take approximately 18-22%. We'll use 20% for this realistic estimate.

• Gross Monthly Income: $34,966 / 12 = $2,914
• Estimated Taxes (20%): -$583
• Net Take-Home (Monthly): $2,331

Now, let's apply this to a monthly budget. The average 1-bedroom rent in Great Falls is $745/month. This is a significant advantage.

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$745	A realistic average for a decent apartment.
Utilities	$150-200	Includes electricity, gas, internet (not all-inclusive).
Groceries	$250 - $300	Based on USDA low-cost food plan for one adult.
Car Payment/Insurance	$250 - $400	Assuming a used car; insurance is a major factor in MT.
Fuel	$100 - $150	Commuting within the city is generally short.
Health Insurance	$150 - $300	This varies widely based on employer contribution.
Miscellaneous	$200	Toiletries, clothing, entertainment.
Total Expenses	$1,795 - $2,395
Remaining (After Rent)	$1,536	From the net $2,331 after rent is paid.

Can they afford to buy a home?
This is a pivotal question. With a $2,331 net monthly income, homeownership is challenging but not impossible. The median home price in Great Falls hovers between $270,000 - $300,000. A 20% down payment is $54,000-$60,000, which is a steep hurdle. However, Montana has first-time homebuyer programs (like the Montana Housing Board) that offer down payment assistance and lower interest rates. A FHA loan (3.5% down) could make a $280,000 home accessible, but your monthly mortgage, taxes, and insurance would likely exceed $1,800, which is a high percentage of your take-home pay. My advice: Rent for the first 1-2 years to build savings and establish your career. Homeownership is a long-term goal in this market.

Insider Tip:

Many local apartments charge less than $745 for a studio or a 1-bedroom in the older neighborhoods. Look for "For Rent" signs in the North Side or Black Eagle, as these listings are often not on major websites. Always verify if utilities are included, as they can be a hidden cost.

Where the Jobs Are: Great Falls's Major Employers

Great Falls's healthcare ecosystem is anchored by a few key players. The job market is tight, with about 120 positions available, so knowing the primary employers is crucial.

1. Benefis Health System: This is the largest employer in the region and your primary hospital and clinic system. They have multiple facilities, including the main campus on 10th Ave S (acute care, ER) and the East Campus (long-term care, rehabilitation). They are the most consistent hirer for CNAs. Hiring is steady, often with sign-on bonuses for night shifts.

2. The Cascade: A major long-term care and rehabilitation facility. They often have higher turnover than the hospital, creating frequent openings. It's a great place to gain experience in geriatric and post-acute care. They value CNAs who can handle dementia care with compassion.

3. Peace Hospice and Palliative Care: Located on 15th Ave S, this organization offers a different CNA experience focused on end-of-life care. It's a smaller, more intimate setting. Hiring is less frequent but highly valued. It requires emotional resilience and excellent communication skills.

4. Mountain View Medical Center: This is a relatively new acute care facility on the city's south side, part of the Intermountain Health network. It's a competitor to Benefis and offers another source of hospital-based positions. They often prioritize candidates with strong technical skills.

5. Great Falls Clinic Hospital: While smaller, this facility provides another avenue for hospital experience. They are known for a close-knit team environment, which can be appealing for new CNAs.

6. Various Assisted Living Facilities: Besides The Cascade, there are several smaller assisted living communities like The Lodge at Great Falls and Heritage Place. These are excellent for CNAs who prefer a less clinical, more home-like setting with a strong focus on daily living assistance.

Hiring Trends:

The 4% job growth is real but competitive. The most critical factor for hiring is not just experience, but a clean background check and a Montana CNA license. Hospitals like Benefis and Mountain View prioritize candidates who have hospital or rehab facility experience. To stand out, get your Basic Life Support (BLS) certification—it's often a requirement and makes your application more attractive.

Getting Licensed in MT

Montana requires all nursing assistants to be listed on the state's Nurse Aide Registry. If you're moving from another state, you must complete the Montana Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation within 6 months of starting work.

Steps & Costs:

1. Competency Evaluation: If you're new to Montana, you'll need to take the state-approved competency test. This includes a written/oral exam and a skills evaluation. The total cost is approximately $135-$150.
2. Background Check: A fingerprint-based criminal history check is required. The cost is about $35-$50.
3. Training: If you need to complete the state-approved 75-hour training course (often provided by local community colleges or healthcare employers), the cost can range from $500 - $900, but many employers like Benefis will sponsor your training upon hiring.

Timeline:

• If you have an active CNA license from another state: You can start working immediately under a temporary permit while you schedule and complete the Montana competency test. The process takes 1-2 months.
• If you are new to the field: The entire process, from enrolling in a training program to getting on the registry, typically takes 2-4 months.

Key Resource: The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) manages the Nurse Aide Registry. Always verify your status and requirements through their official site to avoid any issues with employment.

Insider Tip:

Benefis Health System and The Cascade frequently host their own CNA training programs. It's worth applying for a job as a "CNA Trainee." You get paid to learn, and they cover the cost of your training and licensing exam. This is the most financially savvy way to enter the field if you're starting from scratch.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Great Falls is laid out in a grid, making navigation straightforward. For a CNA, the best neighborhoods balance commute time, rent, and access to amenities.

1. The North Side (59401): This is a historic, established neighborhood with a mix of older homes and apartment buildings. It's close to Benefis's main campus (a 5-10 minute drive). Rent is often below the city average, with 1BR apartments available for $650 - $750. It's a quiet, residential area with local cafes and parks. Commute to all major employers is under 15 minutes.

2. South Side / 10th Ave South Corridor (59405): This area is commercial and residential, home to the city's main shopping centers, restaurants, and Mountain View Medical Center. It’s very convenient for daily errands. Rent is slightly higher, around $750 - $850 for a 1BR. The commute to Benefis or The Cascade is about 10-15 minutes. Great for those who want everything close by.

3. Black Eagle (59414): A separate town just north of Great Falls, it has a small-town feel with lower rents ($600 - $700 for a 1BR). It's home to Peace Hospice and a short 10-minute commute to the main hospital. Ideal for CNAs seeking a quieter, community-focused lifestyle. Be aware that you'll need to cross the Missouri River, but traffic is rarely an issue.

4. The West End (59404): A more suburban area with newer apartment complexes and family housing. Commutes can be longer (10-20 minutes) to the eastern hospitals, but the apartments are often nicer and have amenities like gyms and pools. Rent is on the higher end, $800 - $950. Best for CNAs with a reliable vehicle who prioritize modern living spaces.

Insider Tip:

When apartment hunting, use the ZIP codes 59401 (North Side) and 59414 (Black Eagle) for the most affordable options. For a short commute, look for rentals within a 2-mile radius of 10th Ave S and 24th St NE.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A CNA career in Great Falls can be more than just a job; it's a foundation for long-term growth in the healthcare field. The 4% growth reflects steady demand, but your personal advancement can outpace this.

Specialty Premiums & Advancement Paths:

• Restorative Nurse Aide (RNA): This is a key specialization. With additional training (often provided by employers), you can help patients with mobility and therapeutic exercises. This can add $1.00 - $2.00/hour to your wage.
• Hospice & Palliative Care: CNAs in this field develop deep emotional and communication skills. While not always a direct pay bump, it's a highly respected path that leads to care coordinator or patient advocate roles.
• Charge CNA / Shift Lead: With 3-5 years of solid experience, you can move into a supervisory role, overseeing other CNAs on your shift. This comes with a pay increase and is a stepping stone to management.
• Bridge to Nursing (LPN/RN): This is the most common long-term path. Great Falls has a community college (Great Falls College MSU) with an excellent LPN and RN program. Many local healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement for CNAs who commit to working for them after graduation. This is the most reliable way to significantly increase your earnings.

10-Year Outlook:
With the projected 4% job growth, the core CNA job market will remain stable. However, Montana is facing a nursing shortage, which will increase demand for skilled CNAs. By specializing or progressing to an LPN/RN, you position yourself for the highest growth potential. The need for staff in long-term care, home health, and hospital settings will only increase as the population ages.

Insider Tip:

Join the Montana Healthcare Association as a student or member. The networking events, especially in Great Falls, are invaluable. You'll meet hiring managers from all the major employers and get the inside track on openings before they're publicly posted.

The Verdict: Is Great Falls Right for You?

Great Falls offers a stable, affordable career for a CNA. It's not a high-octane city, but it provides a solid foundation for a life in healthcare. The decision depends on your personal and professional priorities.

Pros	Cons
Very Affordable Cost of Living: Your $34,966 salary goes much further than in Bozeman or Missoula.	Limited Job Market: Only 120 jobs means competition for the best positions.
Stable, Predictable Job Market: Major employers like Benefis provide consistent opportunities.	Lower Median Salary: Pay is below the national average ($35,760).
Short, Easy Commutes: You can get to work in 10-15 minutes from almost anywhere.	Limited Nightlife & Culture: A quieter city, especially after 9 PM.
Gateway to the Rockies: Unmatched outdoor access for hiking, fishing, and hunting.	Harsh Winters: Be prepared for long, cold winters with significant snow.
Strong Employer-Sponsored Training: Easy to get your start with paid training programs.	Car-Dependent: Public transit is limited; a reliable vehicle is a must.

Final Recommendation:
Great Falls is an excellent choice for CNAs who are starting their careers, value affordability, and seek a stable work-life balance. It's ideal for those who don't mind a smaller city and love outdoor recreation. If you are a career-driven CNA seeking the highest possible wages and a bustling social scene, you may find Great Falls limiting. However, if your goal is to gain experience, potentially return to school for an LPN/RN, and build a life without financial stress, Great Falls is a strategic and rewarding place to plant your roots.

FAQs

1. Can I get a job as a CNA in Great Falls without experience?
Yes, but it may require flexibility. The large long-term care facilities (The Cascade, Heritage Place) are more likely to hire new CNAs than the main hospital. Look for "Trainee" or "Entry-Level" positions. Completing your Montana license upfront makes you a more attractive candidate.

2. What's the weather really like for commuting?
Winters are real. You'll need a reliable vehicle with good tires and a block heater. Snow is common from November to March, but the city is excellent at clearing main roads. Your commute might be 10 minutes in summer and 15-20 minutes in a major snowstorm. Invest in a good winter jacket and boots.

3. How easy is it to get to the national parks from Great Falls?
It's a great base for adventure. Glacier National Park is about a 2.5-hour drive, and Yellowstone is 4.5 hours. Many locals make weekend trips. This is a major quality-of-life advantage if you love the outdoors.

4. Is the healthcare community in Great Falls supportive?
Yes, it's a tight-knit community.