The Kenner CNA Career Guide: A Local's Look at Your Future in Jefferson Parish

As a career analyst who’s watched the local healthcare landscape for years, I can tell you that Kenner isn't just a suburb of New Orleans—it's its own engine. The city of Kenner, nestled in Jefferson Parish, runs on a mix of old-school community values and the constant, urgent hum of healthcare. For a Nursing Assistant (CNA), this translates to a stable, if not flashy, job market. The cost of living is remarkably reasonable, but the work is demanding. This guide is designed to give you the unvarnished, data-driven picture of what it means to build a CNA career here, from your first shift at East Jefferson General to your long-term prospects in this tight-knit community.

The Salary Picture: Where Kenner Stands

Let's cut straight to the numbers. The financial reality for a CNA in Kenner is modest but livable, especially given the city's low cost of living. The median salary for a CNA in Kenner is $34,805 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $16.73. This is slightly below the national average of $35,760, a gap that's typical for the Gulf South region. The local job market is defined by stability rather than high growth; the 10-year job growth is projected at 4%, which is steady but not explosive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local job boards, there are currently about 126 active CNA jobs in the Kenner metro area, a number that fluctuates seasonally but rarely dips dramatically.

To understand where you fit, here’s a breakdown of salary progression based on experience in the Kenner market:

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary	Key Factors in Kenner
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$29,000 - $32,000	Often starts at nursing homes or as a new hire in hospital med-surg units. Shift differentials (evenings/weekends) can boost this by $1.50-$2.50/hour.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$33,000 - $37,000	Moves into specialized units (ER, ICU) at East Jefferson or Ochsner Kenner. Seniority and cross-training are key.
Senior (8-12 years)	$37,000 - $41,000	Often leads to Charge CNA roles, patient care tech positions, or roles in dialysis clinics. Union positions (like at East Jefferson) can offer higher pay scales.
Expert (12+ years)	$41,000+	Rare for pure CNA roles. Usually involves becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or moving into management, education, or specialized home health agency coordination.

Comparison to Other Louisiana Cities:

• New Orleans: Salaries are 5-8% higher (median ~$37,500), but the cost of living is significantly steeper, especially for rent.
• Baton Rouge: Very similar to Kenner, with a median of $35,100. The job market is larger but more competitive.
• Lafayette: Slightly lower pay (median ~$33,500) but with a similarly low cost of living.
• Shreveport: Lower pay (median ~$32,000) and fewer large hospital systems.

Insider Tip: The $16.73/hour median is a starting point. The real money in Kenner comes from consistent overtime and shift differentials. Weekend and night shifts are perpetually in demand at the major hospitals, and picking up an extra 8-12 hours a week can easily push your effective hourly rate over $20.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

This is where Kenner’s true advantage reveals itself. The Cost of Living Index is 91.1 (US avg = 100), meaning your dollar stretches further here than in most of the country. The average 1BR rent is $865/month. Let’s break down the monthly budget for a CNA earning the median salary of $34,805.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Annual: $34,805 | Monthly: $2,900 gross)

• Gross Monthly: $2,900
• Estimated Taxes (FICA, Federal, State): -$435 (approx. 15% effective rate)
• Net Take-Home Pay: $2,465

Monthly Expenses:

• Rent (1BR): -$865
• Utilities (Electric, Water, Gas, Internet): -$200 (Kenner's humidity drives AC costs in summer)
• Groceries & Household: -$400
• Car Payment, Insurance, Gas: -$400 (Essential in Kenner; public transit is limited)
• Health Insurance (if not fully covered): -$150 (varies by employer)
• Miscellaneous (Phone, Personal): -$200
• Total Expenses: -$2,215

Monthly Surplus/Savings: $250

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
It's a stretch on a single CNA income. The median home price in Kenner is approximately $275,000. With a 20% down payment ($55,000), a 30-year mortgage at 7% would have a monthly payment of ~$1,465 (PITI), which would consume over 59% of your net income—well above the recommended 30%. However, dual-income households (e.g., two CNAs, or a CNA with a partner in another field) find homeownership very attainable here. Programs like the Louisiana Housing Corporation's first-time homebuyer loans can also provide assistance. For a single CNA, renting is the financially prudent choice for the first few years.

Where the Jobs Are: Kenner's Major Employers

Kenner’s healthcare ecosystem is anchored by a few key players. Hiring is constant but competitive, especially for positions with benefits.

1. East Jefferson General Hospital (EJGH): The city's largest employer and a cornerstone of the community. As part of the LCMC Health system, it offers a wide range of CNA roles from med-surg to the ER. Hiring Trend: They prioritize internal candidates and those with ACLS/PALS certifications. New grad CNAs often start in patient care tech roles in sub-acute units. Unionized positions offer clear pay scales and benefits.

2. Ochsner Kenner Medical Center: A smaller, specialized facility focusing on cardiac and vascular care. Hiring Trend: Requires more experience; they often hire CNAs who have already proven themselves at other facilities. Excellent for those interested in cardiology.

3. Lakeside Hospital (Part of LCMC Health): A newer facility in the area, offering a modern work environment. Hiring Trend: Actively expanding its surgical and orthopedic units, creating a demand for CNAs with orthopedic or post-op care experience.

4. St. Joseph's Nursing Home / St. Joseph's Hospice: A major employer for long-term care. Hiring Trend: High turnover means constant openings, but also a fast-paced, demanding environment. Ideal for gaining experience quickly.

5. Gentiva Home Health & Hospice: The largest home health agency in the region. Hiring Trend: Growing demand for in-home aides, especially for geriatric and post-surgical patients. Requires a valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

6. Jefferson Parish Public Schools: CNAs are employed as School Health Assistants. Hiring Trend: Seasonal hiring peaks in late summer. Great for those seeking regular hours and summers off, though pay is at the lower end of the scale.

7. Various Assisted Living Facilities (e.g., The Suites at Sugar Mill Point, St. Francis Villa): These offer a less acute care environment. Hiring Trend: Steady demand, often with more predictable schedules than hospitals.

Insider Tip: Many Kenner CNAs "start" at a nursing home to get their foot in the door, then leverage that experience to land a better-paying, unionized job at East Jefferson General within 1-2 years. Building relationships with nurse managers during clinical rotations is invaluable.

Getting Licensed in Louisiana

Louisiana’s requirements are straightforward but must be followed precisely. The process typically takes 3-6 months.

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Program: You must graduate from a program approved by the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH). Programs in the Kenner area are offered at Louisiana Technical College (LTC) - Jefferson Campus, Nunez Community College (in Chalmette, very close), and various private vocational schools. Cost: $800 - $1,500. Financial aid is often available.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After graduation, you must pass the state competency exam (written and skills test). The exam fee is approximately $100.
3. Submit Application to the Louisiana Nurse Aide Registry: Once you pass, your training program will help you submit your application to the state registry. There is no additional state fee for initial certification.
4. Background Check: A criminal background check is required, paid for by the applicant (approx. $50).
5. Maintaining Certification: You must work for pay for at least 8 hours in a nursing-related role within 24 months to remain active on the registry.

Timeline to Get Started:

• Month 1: Enroll in an approved program.
• Months 2-4: Complete coursework and clinicals.
• Month 5: Pass the state exam.
• Month 6: Get listed on the registry and start applying for jobs.

Insider Tip: The job market is so tight that many facilities, like St. Joseph's Nursing Home, will often hire you as a "CNA-in-training" and help pay for your certification if you commit to working for them for a set period (e.g., 1 year). Ask about this during interviews.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Kenner is geographically compact, meaning commutes are generally short. Your choice depends on lifestyle and budget.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	1BR Rent Estimate	Best For...
Old Kenner	Historic, walkable, near the "Parade" route. 5-10 min drive to EJGH.	$900 - $1,100	Those who want character and don't mind older apartments.
Crown Point	Quiet, family-oriented, near the levee and parks. 10-15 min commute.	$950 - $1,200	CNAs with families or those seeking a peaceful home base.
Rivertown	Master-planned, very safe, near the river and parks. 15-20 min commute.	$1,000 - $1,300	Professionals prioritizing safety and modern amenities.
Williams Boulevard Area	The commercial heart of Kenner. High density of apartments and shops. 5-10 min commute.	$800 - $1,000	Budget-conscious CNAs who want to minimize commute and have everything nearby.
Lakeview / Metairie (Border)	Technically unincorporated Jefferson Parish, but a 10-15 min drive to Kenner hospitals. More urban feel.	$950 - $1,250	Those who want easier access to New Orleans nightlife and a slightly larger city feel.

Insider Tip: If you work nights, consider living in Crown Point or Rivertown. The quiet, residential streets make it easier to sleep during the day. Avoid the immediate Williams Blvd corridor if you're sensitive to traffic noise.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A CNA license is a fantastic entry point, but your career doesn't have to stop there. Kenner offers several clear advancement paths.

• Specialty Premiums: While direct CNA pay doesn't vary much by unit, skills matter. CNAs with experience in ICU, Telemetry, or Dialysis are more valuable and have first pick for open positions. Some home health agencies pay a premium for CNAs with dementia care certification.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. LPN Bridge Program: The most common path. Nunez Community College and Delgado Community College offer LPN programs. As an LPN, your median salary in Kenner jumps to $48,000 - $52,000.
  2. Patient Care Tech (PCT): A step up from CNA, often with additional responsibilities like phlebotomy or EKGs. Pay is often $1-$2/hour higher.
  3. Charge CNA / Team Lead: In hospitals, experienced CNAs can lead a team on a shift, overseeing assignments.
  4. Certified Medication Aide (CMA): In long-term care, you can get certified to administer medications, which adds responsibility and a slight pay bump.
• 10-Year Outlook: With the 4% job growth, the field is stable. The aging population of Jefferson Parish ensures demand. The key to growth is specialization and licensure. Within 10 years, a dedicated CNA who bridges to LPN or RN can realistically increase their earnings by 50-100%.

Insider Tip: The New Orleans metro area, which Kenner is part of, has a strong culture of continuing education. Many hospitals offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing LPN or RN degrees. It's a powerful benefit to ask about in interviews.

The Verdict: Is Kenner Right for You?

For a CNA seeking stability and a low cost of living, Kenner is a strong contender. It's a practical choice for building a career foundation.

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your salary goes further here than in most US cities.	Lower-than-National-Average Pay: The median $34,805 is modest.
Stable Job Market: Major hospital systems provide reliable employment.	Limited Public Transit: A car is a necessity, adding to monthly costs.
Short Commutes: Most neighborhoods are within 15 minutes of major employers.	High Humidity & Heat: The climate can be physically draining, especially for outdoor work.
Strong Community Feel: Kenner is a "big small town" where you can build networks.	Career Ceiling (without further education): Pure CNA roles have a salary cap.
Pathways to Advancement: Clear routes to LPN/RN with local colleges and employer support.	Hurricane & Flood Risk: A real factor in life and homeownership costs.

Final Recommendation:
Kenner is an excellent choice for a CNA who is:

• Budget-conscious and willing to rent.
• Looking for a stable, entry-level healthcare job to start their career.
• Open to further education to advance beyond the CNA role.
• Able to handle the climate and requires a car.

It may not be the place for high-salary chasing, but it's a solid, reliable foundation for a long-term career in healthcare.

FAQs

Q: How competitive is the job market for new CNAs in Kenner?
A: It's moderately competitive. While there are always openings (the 126 jobs in the metro area fluctuate), facilities prefer candidates with some clinical experience or a strong local school reputation. Completing your clinicals at EJGH or Ochsner can give you a significant edge.

Q: Do I need a car to work as a CNA in Kenner?
A: Yes, absolutely. Public transportation (Jefferson Parish Transit) is limited and unreliable for shift work, especially for nights and weekends. Most employers require a valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Q: What's the best way to find CNA jobs in Kenner?
A: Check the career websites of the major employers (EJGH, Ochsner, LCMC Health) directly. Also, use Indeed and LinkedIn, filtering for "Kenner, LA." Don't underestimate word-of-mouth; tell nurses and instructors in your program you're looking. Many jobs are filled through internal referrals.

Q: Is it worth it to get my CNA license in another state first?
A: It can be, but you'll need to transfer your certification. Louisiana is part of the Nurse Aide Registry reciprocity program. If you're certified in another state, you can apply for reciprocity through the Louisiana Department of Health. The process takes a few weeks and there may be a fee.

Q: What's the biggest challenge for CNAs new to Kenner?
A: The first three months. You'll be adjusting to the pace of a specific facility (hospital vs. nursing home), the physical demands of the job, and the unique pace of life in Southeast Louisiana. The humidity is also a shock for newcomers. Find a support network—coworkers or classmates—early on.