Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Jackson, TN

The Salary Picture: Where Jackson Stands

As a local, I can tell you that Jackson’s healthcare economy is stable, but it’s not a place where you’ll find inflated wages. The data reflects a market that pays a living wage but demands experience. For a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Jackson, the median salary is $34,397/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $16.54/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $35,760/year, a common reality in many mid-sized Southern cities where the cost of living is the primary draw.

Let’s break that down by experience level. While specific local data for each tier is scarce, we can extrapolate from state and national trends for Tennessee's healthcare sector.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Jackson, TN)	Estimated Hourly Rate
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$28,000 - $32,000	$13.46 - $15.38
Mid-Level (2-5 years)	$32,000 - $36,000	$15.38 - $17.31
Senior-Level (5-10 years)	$36,000 - $40,000	$17.31 - $19.23
Expert/Lead (10+ years)	$40,000+	$19.23+

Note: These are estimates based on regional data for Tennessee. The median salary of $34,397 falls squarely in the mid-level range, suggesting most working CNAs in Jackson have a few years of solid experience.

How does this compare to other Tennessee cities?
Jackson sits in a middle ground. It’s significantly more affordable than Nashville or Knoxville, where CNAs might earn a higher median salary (closer to $38,000-$40,000) but face rent and cost of living that can be 40-60% higher. Compared to a city like Memphis, salaries are fairly comparable, but Jackson offers a smaller-town pace with less traffic. The key here is the cost of living index of 87.3—you’re getting more for your dollar, which can offset the slightly lower wage.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about your budget. A $34,397 annual salary translates to approximately $2,866 per month before taxes. After federal, state, FICA (Social Security & Medicare), and local taxes, your take-home pay will be closer to $2,300 - $2,400 per month (this is a conservative estimate; use a TN-specific paycheck calculator for exact figures).

The biggest expense you’ll face is housing. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Jackson is $866/month. Let’s run a sample monthly budget for a CNA earning the median salary:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	$2,350	After taxes, based on $34,397 annual salary.
Rent (1BR)	$866	City average. Could be lower in some areas.
Utilities	$150 - $200	Electricity, water, gas, internet.
Car Payment/Insurance	$350 - $500	Highly variable. Many locals rely on cars.
Groceries	$250 - $300	Jackson has affordable grocery options.
Health Insurance	$100 - $250	If employer-sponsored.
Student Loans/Other Debt	$100 - $300
Miscellaneous	$200	Personal, entertainment, savings.
REMAINING	$84 - $384	Very tight margin.

Can you afford to buy a home?
It’s challenging but possible with careful planning. The median home price in Jackson is around $180,000 - $200,000. A 20% down payment would be $36,000 - $40,000, which is a significant savings goal. However, with a $34,397 salary, you could potentially qualify for an FHA loan with a much smaller down payment (3.5%). Your monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) might be comparable to or slightly higher than your current rent. The key is to have minimal other debt and a strong credit score. Many local banks and credit unions like First Horizon or Regions Bank offer first-time homebuyer programs. Insider Tip: Look into the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) for potential down payment assistance and favorable interest rates for eligible buyers.

Where the Jobs Are: Jackson's Major Employers

Jackson’s healthcare sector is the backbone of its employment market. The metro area has 136 CNA jobs, a number that reflects steady demand. Here are the primary employers where you’ll find openings:

1. Regional One Health (formerly Jackson-Madison County General Hospital): This is the 800-pound gorilla. As the largest hospital in West Tennessee (outside Memphis), it’s a major employer of CNAs across all units—Med/Surg, ICU, ER, and skilled nursing facilities. Hiring is continuous, but competition can be fierce. They offer tuition reimbursement for further certifications.
2. West Tennessee Healthcare (VNA & Home Health): A key player in home health and hospice care. This is a great path if you prefer one-on-one care outside a hospital setting. Demand for home health aides is growing with an aging population.
3. Baptist Memorial Hospital - Jackson: The other major hospital system in the city. Offers similar opportunities to Regional One, with a strong reputation in maternity and cardiac care. They often have internal pathways for CNAs to become certified medication aides.
4. NHC Healthcare - Jackson: A large skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility. This is a classic CNA workplace with a focus on long-term care. Staffing here can be high-turnover, but it’s an excellent place to gain deep experience in geriatrics.
5. The Jackson Clinic: While primarily an outpatient clinic network, they sometimes hire CNAs for clinical support roles, especially in specialty areas like cardiology or orthopedics. It’s a steadier 9-to-5 schedule compared to hospital shifts.
6. Amedisys Home Health: A national chain with a local office. Offers flexibility and the ability to build your own schedule, though you’ll need reliable transportation and be comfortable with driving across the rural county.
7. Local Assisted Living Facilities: Places like The Oaks at Jackson or Brookdale Jackson are always in need of CNAs. The pace is often more predictable than a hospital, with a focus on daily living assistance.

Hiring Trends: Hiring is consistent year-round, but there’s a slight uptick in late spring (as snowbirds return from Florida) and in the fall (as flu season approaches and hospitalizations rise). The 10-year job growth projection of 4% for CNAs in the region is modest, mirroring national trends. It indicates stable, not explosive, growth. The best way to get hired is often through internal referrals or by applying directly on the hospital’s career portal rather than general job boards.

Getting Licensed in TN

Tennessee has clear, straightforward requirements for CNAs, managed by the Tennessee Department of Health, Board of Nursing. You cannot work as a CNA without being listed on the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry.

Requirements & Costs:

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: You must complete a minimum of 75 hours of training (a mix of classroom and clinical). In Jackson, programs are offered at:

   • Jackson State Community College (JSCC): Their Health Careers program is reputable and often has partnerships with local hospitals.
   • Local Vocational/Technical Schools: Check with Jackson Central Merry Career & Technical Center for adult education programs.
   • Nursing Homes/SNFs: Some facilities offer free training in exchange for a work commitment post-certification. This is a fantastic way to earn while you learn.
   • Cost: Training programs typically range from $500 to $1,500. Financial aid and scholarships may be available through JSCC or workforce development programs.

2. Pass the Competency Exam: After training, you must pass the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation (NACE), which consists of a written knowledge test and a skills demonstration. The exam fee is approximately $100-$125.

3. Submit Application to the Registry: Once you pass, your training provider or exam vendor will submit your information to the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry. There is no separate state application fee for initial listing.

Timeline to Get Started:

• Enroll in a Program: 1-2 weeks (varies by start date).
• Complete Training: 4-8 weeks (depending on full-time/part-time schedule).
• Schedule & Pass Exam: 1-2 weeks after training completion.
• Registry Listing: 2-4 weeks after passing.
• Total Estimated Time: 2-4 months from enrollment to being a registered CNA.

Insider Tip: If you’re moving from another state, you can apply for reciprocity if your certification is active and in good standing. The process is streamlined but can take 4-6 weeks, so plan accordingly.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Where you live will impact your commute, budget, and lifestyle. Jackson is a driving city, but most neighborhoods are within a 15-20 minute commute to the major hospitals downtown.

1. North Jackson (Near I-40 & Museum Center):

   • Vibe: Suburban, family-friendly, newer developments.
   • Commute: Excellent access to I-40 for quick trips to NHC or Baptist Memorial. ~10-15 min to Regional One.
   • Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,100/month for a 1BR. Slightly above average but for newer amenities.
   • Best For: CNAs with families or those who want modern apartment complexes.

2. East Jackson (Near Union University):

   • Vibe: College-town energy mixed with established neighborhoods. Close to shopping and restaurants.
   • Commute: Straight shot downtown to all hospitals (~15 min). Easy access to the Jackson Clinic.
   • Rent Estimate: $800 - $950/month for a 1BR. Good value for the location.
   • Best For: Younger CNAs or those who want a lively area with amenities nearby.

3. South Jackson (Near the Airport & Automotive Lane):

   • Vibe: More industrial and residential mix. Quieter, with lower traffic.
   • Commute: ~15-20 min to downtown hospitals. A bit farther from the main medical district but still very manageable.
   • Rent Estimate: $700 - $850/month for a 1BR. This is where you can find the best deals.
   • Best For: Budget-conscious CNAs who prioritize savings over nightlife.

4. Downtown/Midtown:

   • Vibe: Historic, walkable, with ongoing revitalization. Close to the Farmer’s Market and local cafes.
   • Commute: Walk or bike to Regional One. A 5-10 minute drive to other hospitals.
   • Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,050/month for a 1BR (often in converted historic buildings).
   • Best For: CNAs who want a short commute and urban lifestyle without a big-city price tag.

5. Rural North (Near Medina/Three Way):

   • Vibe: Very quiet, suburban/rural. More space for the money.
   • Commute: 20-30 minute drive to Jackson’s hospitals. You will be driving everywhere.
   • Rent Estimate: $750 - $900/month can get you a small house or a larger apartment.
   • Best For: Those who don’t mind a longer commute for more privacy and lower rent.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A CNA role in Jackson is a stable starting point, but the path to advancement is clear if you’re motivated.

• Specialty Premiums: While formal "premiums" are rare, you’ll find higher pay in specialized units. ICU, ER, and skilled nursing (especially long-term care) often offer shift differentials (an extra $1.50 - $3.00/hour for nights/weekends) that can boost your effective hourly rate to $18-$20/hour.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Certified Medication Aide (CMA): After gaining 6-12 months of experience, you can take an additional state-approved course (1-2 weeks, ~$300) to become a CMA. This allows you to administer medications in a supervised setting and typically comes with a pay bump.
  2. Charge CNA/Team Lead: With 3-5 years of experience, you can move into a leadership role, coordinating care for a unit. This doesn’t always come with a huge raise but is a crucial resume builder.
  3. Bridge to LPN/RN: This is the most common and impactful path. Jackson State Community College offers an excellent LPN program (1 year) and an ADN-RN program (2 years). Many hospitals, especially Regional One and Baptist, offer tuition reimbursement and flexible scheduling for employees pursuing nursing degrees. With an RN license, your salary in Jackson jumps to the $55,000 - $70,000 range.
  4. Specialized Certifications: Pursue certifications in areas like geriatrics, dementia care, or restorative nursing. These make you more valuable and can lead to roles in specialized units or home health coordination.

• 10-Year Outlook: With a 4% job growth, the market for CNAs will remain healthy but competitive. The real growth will be in those who use the CNA role as a stepping stone. The aging population of West Tennessee will ensure demand for direct care workers for decades, but the most prosperous CNAs will be those who advance their skills and licensure.

The Verdict: Is Jackson Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $34,397 salary stretches much further here than in a major metro.	Lower Wages: You’re earning less than the national average for the role.
Stable Job Market: Major employers offer consistent openings and benefits.	Limited Career Ceiling: As a CNA, advancement without further education is slow.
Manageable Commutes: No soul-crushing traffic; most places are a 15-minute drive away.	Car Dependent: Public transit is limited; you need a reliable vehicle.
Strong Hospital Networks: Good experience at top-tier facilities like Regional One.	Limited Nightlife/Culture: It’s a quiet city; big-city amenities are in Memphis (1.5 hrs away).
Sense of Community: Smaller city feel where you can build personal connections with patients and colleagues.	Growth is Modest: The 4% job growth indicates stability, not boomtown opportunity.

Final Recommendation:
Jackson is an excellent choice for the pragmatic CNA. If your primary goals are to gain solid clinical experience, live comfortably on your salary, and potentially use tuition reimbursement to advance your nursing education, Jackson is hard to beat. It’s not the place to chase the highest CNA salary, but it’s a fantastic launchpad for a long-term healthcare career, especially if you value a balanced lifestyle and community connection. If you’re looking for high-energy urban life or the absolute top dollar for CNA work, you may find Jackson too quiet.

FAQs

Q: I’m an out-of-state CNA. How long will it take to get licensed in Tennessee?
A: If your certification is active and in good standing, you can apply for reciprocity through the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry. The process typically takes 4-6 weeks. Start this process before you move, as you cannot legally work as a CNA in TN until you are on the registry.

Q: Do hospitals in Jackson pay for CNA training?
A: It’s common for nursing homes (SNFs) to offer free training with a work commitment. Hospitals are less likely to offer free training for external candidates but will often provide tuition reimbursement for employees who want to pursue LPN or RN degrees. Always ask about educational benefits during the interview.

Q: How competitive is the job market for CNAs in Jackson?
A: With 136 jobs in the metro and steady demand, it’s not hyper-competitive, but you must be qualified and professional. Having your BLS/CPR certification up to date and a clean background is essential. The most competitive positions are at the major hospitals; applying to SNFs and home health can be an easier entry point.

Q: What’s the weather like, and does it affect my commute?
A: Jackson has a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Snowfall is infrequent but can happen. When it does, the city can shut down for a day or two as roads aren’t heavily treated. Plan for a few snow days per winter, but it rarely disrupts schedules for more than 24-48 hours.

Q: Can I live in Jackson and commute to Memphis for a higher salary?
A: Yes, it’s a very common commute (about 1.5 hours each