Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Jonesboro, AR

Of course. Here is a comprehensive career guide for Nursing Assistants considering Jonesboro, AR.

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The Salary Picture: Where Jonesboro Stands

Let's get straight to the numbers, because they tell the real story. As a CNA in Jonesboro, you're looking at a median salary of $34,225 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $16.45. It's crucial to understand that this is a median—a midpoint. Your actual earnings will swing based on your experience, where you work, and your shift differential.

Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect to earn at different stages of your career in the Jonesboro metro area:

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary (Jonesboro)	Key Factors
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$28,000 - $31,000	Often starts in long-term care facilities or as a new hire in a hospital. Pay is typically at or just above minimum wage.
Mid-Level (2-5 years)	$32,000 - $36,000	You're in the median range. Experience in specialties like med-surg or telemetry can push you to the higher end.
Senior-Level (5-10 years)	$36,000 - $40,000	Often involves charge CNA roles, preceptor duties, or specialized units. Night/weekend differentials add up.
Expert/Lead (10+ years)	$40,000+	Typically found in lead positions at major hospitals or clinical educators. This ceiling is lower than in larger metro areas.

How does this compare to the rest of Arkansas and the nation?

Jonesboro's CNA salaries are slightly below the national average of $35,760 per year. However, they are competitive with other Arkansas cities of similar size. For instance, salaries in Fayetteville or Fort Smith might be marginally higher due to the presence of larger hospital systems and a slightly higher cost of living, but the difference is often negligible. The real story isn't about matching national averages; it's about what your dollar does in Jonesboro, which is significantly more than in places like Little Rock or Dallas.

Insider Tip: The 10-year job growth of 4% for CNAs in the metro is modest, reflecting a stable but not rapidly expanding market. This means jobs are consistently available due to turnover and retirements, but you won't see the explosive growth you might find in a major coastal city. The 161 jobs currently listed in the metro is a solid baseline for a market this size.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A salary number is just that—until you factor in life's non-negotiables: taxes and a roof over your head. Let's break down a monthly budget for a CNA earning the median salary of $34,225.

Estimated Monthly Take-Home Pay (after taxes):
On a $34,225 annual salary in Arkansas, your estimated take-home pay after federal, state, and FICA taxes is approximately $2,225 per month.

Monthly Budget Breakdown:

Expense Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$767	This is the Jonesboro average. You can find studios for ~$650 or nicer 1BRs in newer complexes for ~$900.
Utilities	$150	Includes electricity, water, gas, and a basic internet plan.
Groceries	$300	For a single person, shopping at local chains like Kroger or Harps Food Stores.
Car Payment/Insurance	$250	Assumes a modest used car with insurance. Public transport is limited, so a car is essential.
Fuel	$120	Commuting within Jonesboro is typically 15-25 minutes.
Health Insurance	$100	This can vary widely; many employers offer plans, but premiums can be high.
Miscellaneous	$200	Phone, personal care, occasional dining out, etc.
Total Expenses	$1,887
Remaining (Savings/Debt)	$338

Can you afford to buy a home?
It's a challenge on a single CNA income, but not impossible with discipline. The median home price in Jonesboro is around $180,000. A 20% down payment is $36,000, which would take years of saving the $338 monthly surplus. However, with an FHA loan (3.5% down - $6,300) and a strong credit score, homeownership becomes more attainable, especially if you have a partner with a second income. The key is that the cost of living index of 85.7 (with the U.S. average being 100) works in your favor, making both renting and eventual buying more feasible than in most parts of the country.

Where the Jobs Are: Jonesboro's Major Employers

Jonesboro's healthcare landscape is dominated by one giant, but several other key players offer opportunities. Your job search should start here.

1. St. Bernards Medical Center: This is the 800-pound gorilla of healthcare in Northeast Arkansas. As a 400+ bed tertiary care hospital, it's the largest employer of CNAs in the region. They offer positions in virtually every specialty: Med/Surg, ICU, ER, Labor & Delivery, and Orthopedics. Hiring is constant due to its size. Insider Tip: St. Bernards has a robust tuition reimbursement program. Many CNAs start here and use the benefit to become LPNs or RNs.

2. NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital: The main competitor to St. Bernards and part of the massive Baptist Memorial Health Care system. It's a newer, 100-bed facility with a focus on advanced treatments. They often have a slightly different culture and may offer more competitive benefits to attract talent. Hiring trends here are tied to their expansion of specialized services like oncology.

3. Baptist Health Medical Center - Jonesboro: A 105-bed hospital that is part of the Baptist Health system. It provides a strong alternative to the big two, with a community hospital feel. They frequently hire for med-surg and swing-bed units.

4. Area Nursing Homes & Long-Term Care Facilities: Jonesboro has a high demand for CNAs in long-term care. Key employers include St. Francis Hospital - Assumption, The Green House Cottages of Plantation Manor, and The Citadel of Jonesboro. These facilities often have more consistent hours and a less acute-care pace than hospitals. Hiring here is very steady.

5. Jonesboro Human Development Center (JHDC): A state-run facility for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It offers a different career path for CNAs, focusing on long-term patient relationships and developmental care. State benefits are a major draw, and turnover is typically lower than in acute care.

6. Baptist Health Medical Group - Specialty Clinics: Not just hospitals. The large physician networks in Jonesboro (like Baptist Health Medical Group and St. Bernards Medical Group) employ CNAs for clinical roles in cardiology, orthopedics, and primary care. These are weekday, 8-5 jobs with no weekends or holidays—a huge perk for work-life balance.

Getting Licensed in Arkansas

If you're moving from another state, you'll need to get your Arkansas certification. If you're new to the field, here's the path.

In-State Training:

• Requirement: Complete a state-approved CNA training program. These are offered at Arkansas State University-Beebe (Jonesboro campus), Crowley's Ridge College, and several private vocational schools.
• Cost & Timeline: Programs typically cost between $800 and $1,500 and take 4-8 weeks to complete (full-time).
• Exam: After training, you must pass the written and skills competency exams administered by Pearson VUE.

Out-of-State CNAs:

• Reciprocity: Arkansas has reciprocity with most states. If you have a current, active CNA certification in good standing from another state, you can apply for Arkansas certification by endorsement through the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS).
• Cost: The application fee is $20.
• Timeline: The process can take 4-8 weeks, so start early. You cannot work as a CNA in Arkansas until your application is approved.
• Source: The official source for all licensing is the Arkansas Department of Human Services, Division of Medical Services, Nurse Aide Registry.

Insider Tip: If your certification has lapsed, you may be required to complete a refresher course and re-test. Don't let your certification lapse if you plan to move.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Jonesboro is a driving city, but choosing the right neighborhood can cut your commute and fit your lifestyle. Here’s a local’s perspective:

• Northwest Jonesboro (Near St. Bernards Medical Center):

  • Commute: 5-15 minutes to St. Bernards, NEA Baptist, and major clinics.
  • Lifestyle: This is the most convenient area for healthcare workers. It's a mix of older, established neighborhoods and newer subdivisions. You'll find many restaurants and shops along Nettleton Avenue.
  • Rent: Slightly higher, averaging $800 - $950 for a 1BR.

• South Jonesboro (Near NEA Baptist & Baptist Health):

  • Commute: 10-20 minutes to most hospitals.
  • Lifestyle: More suburban and residential. Closer to shopping centers like The Mall at Turtle Creek. Generally quieter than the north side.
  • Rent: Very reasonable, around $700 - $800 for a 1BR.

• Downtown Jonesboro:

  • Commute: 10-15 minutes to the major hospitals.
  • Lifestyle: The historic heart of the city. Offers a walkable, charming vibe with local coffee shops, boutiques, and restaurants like The Parson's Table. It's attracting younger professionals and offers a unique community feel.
  • Rent: Limited inventory, but you can find renovated apartments for $750 - $900.

• Northeast Jonesboro (Near ASU-Beebe Campus):

  • Commute: 15-20 minutes to hospitals.
  • Lifestyle: A mix of student housing and family neighborhoods. Close to Arkansas State University's campus, which offers recreation and cultural events. Good value for those on a budget.
  • Rent: One of the most affordable areas, with 1BRs averaging $650 - $750.

• Lake City:

  • Commute: 20-25 minutes to Jonesboro's hospitals.
  • Lifestyle: A separate, small-town community just north of Jonesboro. Offers a slower pace, lower cost of living, and a strong sense of community. For those who want to escape the city feel.
  • Rent: Very affordable, with 1BRs often under $700.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The CNA role in Jonesboro is a stable starting point, but career advancement is essential for long-term financial growth.

• Specialty Premiums: While formal premiums aren't always advertised, CNAs with certifications in phlebotomy, EKG, or those working in high-acuity units like ICU or the ER often have an edge in pay and scheduling.
• Advancement Paths: The most common paths are linear:
  1. LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse): A 12-18 month program. Salaries jump significantly, often into the $45,000 - $55,000 range.
  2. RN (Registered Nurse): An Associate's (2 years) or Bachelor's (4 years) degree. This is where earning potential expands dramatically, with RNs in Jonesboro earning a median of $60,000 - $75,000+.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 4% job growth indicates a need for replacement, not expansion. In 10 years, Jonesboro will still be a hub for long-term care and general hospital services. The biggest shift will likely be in technology integration (EHRs, telehealth). CNAs who are tech-comfortable and pursue further education will be the most secure and have the highest earning potential. The role will remain physically and emotionally demanding, with a continued focus on compassionate, hands-on care.

The Verdict: Is Jonesboro Right for You?

Making a move is a big decision. Here’s a balanced look at what Jonesboro offers a CNA.

Pros	Cons
Very Low Cost of Living: Your salary goes much further here than in most U.S. cities.	Lower Ceiling: Salaries for CNAs, LPNs, and even RNs are below national averages.
Stable Job Market: Major employers like St. Bernards and NEA Baptist provide consistent opportunities.	Limited Public Transit: A car is an absolute necessity.
Short, Easy Commutes: You can live affordably and be at work in under 20 minutes.	Limited Specialty Fields: Options are largely in hospital med-surg, long-term care, and clinics.
Community Feel: A mid-sized city with Southern hospitality and a slower pace of life.	Cultural & Entertainment Options: Fewer than in a major metro; it's a 2-3 hour drive to Memphis or Little Rock.
Gateway to Advanced Education: ASU-Beebe and Crowley's Ridge offer affordable pathways to LPN/RN.	High Demand for Physical Labor: The job is demanding, and facilities can be short-staffed.

Final Recommendation:
Jonesboro is an excellent choice for a CNA who values affordability, stability, and a manageable pace of life over rapid career acceleration and a bustling urban environment. It's ideal for those looking to put down roots, possibly buy a home, and use the low cost of living as a launchpad for further education (like becoming an RN). If you're seeking high-energy, fast-paced city life or want to work in a niche medical specialty, you may feel constrained. But for a solid career foundation with a high quality of life, Jonesboro is a strong contender.

FAQs

1. I'm an out-of-state CNA. How long will it take to get licensed to work in Jonesboro?
If you have an active certification, the reciprocity process typically takes 4-8 weeks. Start your application with the Arkansas DHS immediately upon deciding to move. You cannot legally work as a CNA until you are on the Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry.

2. How competitive is the job market for CNAs in Jonesboro?
The market is stable but not hyper-competitive. With 161 jobs listed and a 4% growth rate, there are consistent openings. The biggest competition is for the most desirable shifts (day shift, weekdays) at the top employers. Be flexible with your schedule, especially when first starting out, and you'll find a position quickly.

3. What are the most common shifts for CNAs in Jonesboro hospitals?
The standard 12-hour shifts are common in hospitals (7 am - 7 pm or 7 pm - 7 am), often with a 3-day/4-day rotation. Long-term care facilities more frequently use 8-hour shifts. Weekend and night differentials are common and can boost your hourly rate by $1.50-$3.00/hour.

4. Is it worth it to get my CNA license in Jonesboro if my goal is to become an RN?
Absolutely. The low cost of living allows you to save money while working as a CNA to pay for nursing school. You gain invaluable bedside experience that will make you a stronger nursing student and a more confident new RN graduate. Many local hospitals offer tuition assistance for employees pursuing nursing degrees.

5. What is the cost of a CNA program in the Jonesboro area?
You can expect to pay between $800 and $1,500 for a state-approved program. Arkansas State University-Beebe often has the most affordable options, while private vocational schools may be more expensive but offer flexible schedules. Always verify the program is on the Arkansas DHS list of approved providers before enrolling.