The Complete Career Guide for Nursing Assistants in Greenville, MS

If you're a Nursing Assistant (CNA) looking for a career change, Greenville, Mississippi, presents a unique blend of opportunity and affordability. As a local who has watched this Delta city’s economy evolve, I can tell you that working here is different than in larger metro areas. It’s a tight-knit community where healthcare roles are vital and respected, but the pace and pay scale reflect the region’s cost of living. This guide breaks down the reality of being a CNA in Greenville, from salary and taxes to neighborhoods and long-term growth.

The Salary Picture: Where Greenville Stands

Let’s get straight to the numbers. For a CNA in Greenville, the financial landscape is modest but, when balanced with the low cost of living, can provide a stable life. The median salary for a Nursing Assistant in the area is $34,043/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $16.37/hour. It’s crucial to understand that this figure sits slightly below the national average of $35,760/year and is typical for the Mississippi Delta region.

The job market here is specialized. With only 57 reported jobs in the metro area, opportunities are concentrated and competitive. The 10-year job growth projection is 4%, which is slower than the national average for CNAs. This isn’t a place for rapid job hopping; it’s for those seeking stability and community integration. Growth is steady but not explosive, largely tied to the aging population and the healthcare needs of Washington County.

To give you a clearer picture of how experience impacts your earning potential, here’s a realistic breakdown:

Experience-Level Salary Breakdown

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Estimated Hourly Rate	Notes
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$28,000 - $31,000	$13.46 - $14.90	Typically starts in long-term care or home health.
Mid-Career (3-5 years)	$32,000 - $36,000	$15.38 - $17.31	Closer to the median; may have specialty certs.
Senior-Level (6-10 years)	$35,000 - $39,000	$16.83 - $18.75	Often leads, preceptors, or in specialty units.
Expert/Lead (10+ years)	$37,000 - $42,000+	$17.79 - $20.19+	Management tracks, shift leads, or hospital roles.

Note: These ranges are estimates based on local job postings and the provided median data. The median of $34,043 fits squarely in the mid-career bracket.

How Greenville Compares to Other Mississippi Cities

While Greenville’s median salary is near the state average for CNAs, it’s important to see it in context. The Delta region generally offers lower wages than the Jackson or Gulf Coast areas, but the trade-off is a much lower cost of living.

City	Median Salary (CNA)	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	1BR Avg. Rent
Greenville	$34,043	84.0	$714
Jackson	$35,200	82.5	$850
Gulfport-Biloxi	$33,800	82.8	$875
Hattiesburg	$32,900	78.9	$725
U.S. Average	$35,760	100	$1,300+

As you can see, Greenville’s salary aligns with other Mississippi cities, but its cost of living is a key differentiator. The Cost of Living Index of 84.0 means your dollar stretches approximately 16% further than the national average.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s translate that $34,043 annual salary into a realistic monthly budget. We’ll use conservative estimates for taxes and the local average rent.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (CNA Earning $34,043/Year):

• Gross Monthly Pay: $2,837
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, State, FICA): ~$600
• Take-Home Pay: ~$2,237
• Rent (1-BR Average): $714
• Remaining for Utilities, Food, Transportation, Insurance, Savings: $1,523

With $1,523 left for all other monthly expenses, a single person can live comfortably, though luxuries are limited. A monthly budget might look like:

• Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet): $200
• Groceries: $300
• Car Payment/Insurance/Gas: $400
• Health Insurance (if not employer-sponsored): $150
• Personal/Discretionary: $200
• Savings/Emergency Fund: $273

Can they afford to buy a home?
Yes, it’s feasible with careful planning. The median home price in Greenville is around $125,000. With a 3.5% FHA loan down payment ($4,375), a monthly mortgage (including taxes and insurance) could be around $900-$1,000. This is higher than rent but still potentially manageable on a CNA’s salary, especially if you have a dual-income household. However, saving for the down payment on a single income requires strict budgeting. The $273/month in our example savings would take about 16 months to save the $4,375 down payment, assuming no other expenses.

Where the Jobs Are: Greenville's Major Employers

The healthcare job market in Greenville is dominated by a few key players. Hiring trends are stable; employers prefer local candidates with solid references. Due to the small job pool (57 jobs), networking is critical. Here are the primary employers:

1. Greenville Memorial Hospital: The largest employer in the area. Part of the Delta Health System. They have a consistent need for CNAs in Med-Surg, ER, and long-term care units. Hiring trends show a preference for candidates with BLS/CPR certification and at least one year of experience. Shift differentials are available for nights and weekends.

2. Delta Health System - The Medical Center: A major competitor and another large hospital system. They often have openings in their nursing homes and rehabilitation centers. They are known for offering tuition reimbursement for CNAs pursuing LPN or RN degrees, a key growth path.

3. Sunrise Senior Living: While not in Greenville proper (located in nearby Greenville, TN), it's a regional option. However, for local focus, Baptist Memorial Hospital-GT in nearby Cleveland, MS (about a 45-minute drive) is a significant employer. Many Greenville residents commute there for higher pay and more specialty units.

4. Washington County Nursing Home: The county-run long-term care facility is a steady source of employment. It offers stable hours and state benefits, though pay may start at the lower end of the range. It’s a great place for new CNAs to gain foundational experience.

5. Home Health Agencies: Companies like ComForCare and Interim HealthCare have a presence in the Delta. These roles offer more independence but require reliable transportation. Pay can be slightly higher ($17-$18/hour) to compensate for travel. Hiring is frequent due to high turnover, but job security is less stable.

6. Private Practices & Clinics: Several surgical centers and specialty clinics (e.g., cardiology, orthopedics) hire CNAs for patient intake and basic care. These are coveted roles for their regular business hours. Check with Greenville Medical Clinic and Delta Regional Medical Group.

Insider Tip: The most effective way to find a job here is to walk into the human resources offices of these major employers with a resume in hand. A personal connection still matters deeply in Greenville’s healthcare community.

Getting Licensed in MS

Mississippi’s requirements for CNAs are straightforward but must be followed precisely. The process is managed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH).

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: You must complete a minimum of 120 hours of training, which includes 80 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of clinical practice. In Greenville, you can find programs at:

   • Washington County Career & Technical Center: Offers a CNA program. (Cost: ~$800-$1,200)
   • Delta Area Health Education Center (AHEC): Sometimes hosts certification classes.
   • Local Community Colleges: While not in Greenville, nearby Alcorn State or Mississippi Delta Community College have programs.

2. Pass the Competency Exam: After training, you must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, which consists of a written/oral test and a skills demonstration. The fee is approximately $125.

3. Apply for State Certification: Submit your application to the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry. Once you pass the exam, your name is added, and you can work as a CNA. The initial application fee is around $25.

Timeline: From start to finish, if you enroll in a full-time program, you can be certified in 4-6 weeks. Part-time programs may take 8-12 weeks. The total cost for training, exam, and certification typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,500. Some employers, like Delta Health System, may offer to reimburse these costs after a period of employment.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Living in Greenville means balancing commute, safety, and rent. The city is divided by the Mississippi River, with most amenities on the east side. Here’s a breakdown of areas to consider:

1. North Greenville (East Side): This is the most desirable area. It’s close to Greenville Memorial Hospital, grocery stores, and restaurants. The commute to most healthcare jobs is under 10 minutes. Rent for a 1-BR is higher, around $750-$850. It’s the best choice for convenience and safety.

2. South Greenville (East Side): More residential and slightly quieter than North Greenville. You’ll find older, well-maintained homes and apartments. It’s still a very short commute to the hospital and other employers. Rent is more affordable, averaging $650-$750. A great balance for budget-conscious professionals.

3. Downtown Greenville: The historic downtown area is seeing revitalization. It’s walkable to local shops and cafes but can be hit-or-miss regarding safety and parking. It’s not ideal for families but can work for a single professional. Rent varies widely ($600-$900). Be sure to tour specific blocks carefully.

4. The West Side: More rural and spread out. You’ll find cheaper rent ($550-$700) and more space, but the commute is longer (20-30 minutes) and amenities are sparse. This area is best for those who prefer a quieter, country-like setting and don’t mind driving.

5. Near Mississippi State University (MSU) Delta Branch: While not a traditional neighborhood, renting near the campus can offer good value and a quiet environment. It’s a bit farther from the main hospital but close to the community college and some clinics.

Insider Tip: When apartment hunting, drive through neighborhoods at different times of day. Pay attention to street lighting and general upkeep. In Greenville, a good property management company is worth its weight in gold.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 4% job growth projection means you need to be strategic about advancement. Stagnation is a real risk if you don’t plan for the next step.

Specialty Premiums: While formal premiums are rare, CNAs with additional certifications can command higher starting pay or access better shifts.

• Geriatric Certification: Valued in long-term care.
• Phlebotomy or EKG Tech: Some hospitals cross-train CNAs, leading to a pay bump of $1-$2/hour.
• CPR/BLS Instructor: You can become an instructor for extra income.

Advancement Paths (The Most Common Route):

1. CNA to LPN: The most direct path. Many local CNAs enroll in LPN programs at nearby community colleges. With an LPN license, your salary potential jumps to $42,000-$48,000/year.
2. CNA to RN: A longer but more rewarding path. Greenville has no four-year university, but online RN-to-BSN programs are popular. An RN in Greenville can earn $60,000-$70,000+.
3. Healthcare Administration: With experience, CNAs can move into roles like unit secretary, patient care coordinator, or medical office manager. This path often requires additional coursework.

10-Year Outlook: In a decade, the need for CNAs will remain steady due to the aging population. However, the real growth will be for CNAs who advance to LPN or RN roles. The local healthcare system will continue to depend on a core group of experienced, reliable CNAs—those who get specialized training will have the most job security and mobility.

The Verdict: Is Greenville Right for You?

Deciding to move to Greenville for a CNA career is a lifestyle choice as much as a professional one. It’s not for everyone, but for the right person, it can be an excellent fit.

Pros	Cons
Very Low Cost of Living: Your salary goes much further.	Low Salary Ceiling: Pay is below national average with limited growth.
Stable, Close-Knit Job Market: Less competition for jobs.	Small Job Pool: Only 57 jobs; harder to switch employers.
Strong Community Ties: You’ll know your patients and co-workers.	Limited Entertainment/Nightlife: Quieter, slower pace of life.
Easy Commutes: No traffic congestion.	Car Dependency: You absolutely need a reliable car.
Opportunity for Homeownership: Realistic on a CNA salary.	Geographic Isolation: Far from major cities (Jackson, Memphis, New Orleans).

Final Recommendation:
Greenville is an excellent choice for a CNA who values community, stability, and affordability over rapid career advancement and high-paced city life. It’s ideal for:

• New CNAs looking to gain solid experience without high competition.
• Professionals seeking to buy a home on a single income.
• Those who prefer a slower, community-oriented lifestyle.

It is not the right choice for someone seeking the highest possible salary, frequent job changes, or a bustling urban environment. If you’re patient, grounded, and looking for a place to put down roots, Greenville can be a deeply rewarding place to build your healthcare career.

FAQs

1. How competitive is the job market for CNAs in Greenville?
It’s moderately competitive but not cutthroat. With only 57 jobs in the metro, openings don’t last forever, but the small talent pool means qualified candidates are usually hired quickly. Having your Mississippi certification and BLS card ready is key.

2. Can I live in Greenville without a car?
No. Greenville is not a walkable city. Public transportation is very limited, and healthcare jobs often require shift work outside standard hours. A reliable car is a non-negotiable necessity for commuting and daily life.

3. What’s the best way to find a CNA job here?
The most effective method is a hybrid approach: Apply online for positions at the major hospitals and nursing homes, but also visit their HR departments in person with your resume. Networking with current employees through local community groups or churches can also uncover unadvertised opportunities.

4. Is the cost of living really that low?
Yes. The 84.0 Cost of Living Index is accurate. Groceries, utilities, and especially rent ($714 for a 1BR) are significantly below national averages. However, healthcare costs and car insurance can be relatively high, so budget accordingly.

5. What is the biggest challenge for CNAs new to Greenville?
The biggest challenge is often the lack of anonymity and social options. In a small, close-knit healthcare community, your professional reputation matters immensely. Social life is quieter and revolves around community events, family, and church. If you thrive on anonymity and constant new experiences, Greenville may feel isolating.