Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Killeen, TX

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Nursing Assistants (CNAs) considering a move to Killeen, Texas.

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The Salary Picture: Where Killeen Stands

If you’re looking at Killeen as a place to build a career as a CNA, the first thing to understand is that the pay here sits slightly below the national average, but the low cost of living makes it a financially viable option. The median salary for a CNA in Killeen is $34,880/year, which breaks down to roughly $16.77/hour. For context, the national average for this role is $35,760/year, so you’re looking at a difference of about $880 annually—not insignificant, but not a dealbreaker when you factor in local expenses.

The job market is stable but not exploding. The metro area has roughly 319 current job openings for CNAs, and the 10-year job growth projection is 4%. This is slower than the national average for healthcare support roles, which means competition can be steady, especially for the best-paying positions at major hospitals.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Estimated Hourly Rate	What to Expect
Entry-Level	$28,000 - $31,000	$13.46 - $14.90	New graduates, limited experience. Often start in long-term care facilities or home health.
Mid-Level	$33,000 - $37,000	$15.87 - $17.79	2-5 years of experience. Eligible for shifts at hospitals (OSF, Baylor Scott & White).
Senior-Level	$38,000 - $42,000	$18.27 - $20.19	5+ years, specialized skills (e.g., ICU, telemetry), charge CNA roles, or shift differentials.
Expert/Specialized	$43,000+	$20.67+	Leads in hospice, specialized rehab units, or transition to LPN/RN roles. Often includes certifications.

Note: These ranges are estimates based on local job postings and BLS data for the region. Shift differentials (nights/weekends) can add $2-$4/hour.

Comparison to Other Texas Cities

Killeen’s salary is competitive within Central Texas, especially when you compare it to the cost of living.

• Killeen: Median $34,880
• Waco: Median $33,500 (slightly lower, similar COL)
• Austin: Median $40,200 (higher pay, but COL is ~50% higher)
• Dallas-Fort Worth: Median $36,500 (modestly higher, COL is 25% higher than Killeen)

Insider Tip: While Austin and Dallas offer higher base pay, the rent and transportation costs eat up those gains. A CNA in Killeen can often live more comfortably on $34,880 than one in Austin on $40,200. The trade-off is fewer specialty healthcare employers and a smaller professional network.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's break down a realistic monthly budget for a single CNA earning the median salary of $34,880. This assumes you file as a single filer with no dependents and take the standard deduction.

Estimated Monthly Take-Home Pay:

• Gross Monthly: $34,880 / 12 = $2,907
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, FICA, State): ~$550 (varies by withholdings)
• Net Take-Home: ~$2,357/month

Monthly Budget Breakdown

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR Apartment)	$900	Median for the area. Could be $700 in older areas or $1,100 in new complexes.
Utilities (Elec, Water, Gas, Internet)	$200	Varies seasonally (AC in summer).
Car Payment/Insurance	$350	Assuming a modest used car with full coverage.
Groceries	$250	Cooking at home is key.
Gas/Transport	$150	Killeen is car-dependent. Public transit is limited.
Healthcare (Copays, OTC)	$100	Even with employer insurance.
Debt/Student Loans	$150	Adjust based on personal situation.
Miscellaneous/Savings	$257	For entertainment, clothes, emergency fund.
TOTAL	$2,357	Tightly balanced, but feasible.

Can they afford to buy a home?
On a $34,880 salary, buying a home in Killeen is challenging but not impossible. The median home price in the Killeen metro is around $250,000. With a 3.5% FHA down payment ($8,750), your monthly mortgage (including taxes and insurance) would be approximately $1,800-$1,900. This would consume over 75% of your take-home pay, which is unsustainable. Homeownership would require a dual-income household, a significant down payment, or a move into a much lower-priced property (e.g., a condo or older fixer-upper).

Insider Tip: Many local CNAs partner with a spouse or roommate to split housing costs, which is the most effective way to build savings for a future down payment.

Where the Jobs Are: Killeen's Major Employers

Killeen’s healthcare market is robust, anchored by a mix of large hospital systems, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies. The presence of Fort Hood (now Fort Cavazos) also drives demand for veteran care.

1. Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Killeen

   • Details: The largest hospital in the city, part of a massive statewide system. Offers a wide range of units (med-surg, ICU, labor & delivery).
   • Hiring Trend: Consistent hiring, especially for night and weekend shifts. They often have CNA-to-employee pathways for tuition assistance if you pursue an LPN or RN.

2. OSF HealthCare Little Company of Mary Medical Center

   • Details: A 70-bed hospital known for a strong community focus. Often praised for better nurse-to-patient ratios than larger systems.
   • Hiring Trend: Steady but selective. They prioritize experience and cultural fit. Good benefits package.

3. Killeen Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

   • Details: A large, 120-bed long-term care (LTC) facility. This is a classic starting point for new CNAs.
   • Hiring Trend: High turnover means frequent openings, especially for weekend warriors. Pay may start at the lower end of the spectrum ($13-$14/hr).

4. Arbor Springs of Killeen

   • Details: A senior living community offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care.
   • Hiring Trend: Growing demand due to the aging population. Roles here are often less medically intensive than LTC but require strong customer service skills.

5. BrightStar Care of Killeen

   • Details: A home health agency serving clients in their homes.
   • Hiring Trend: Offers flexibility and one-on-one patient care. Pay can be slightly higher ($17-$19/hr) due to the need for reliable transportation and independent work.

6. Fort Cavazos (Formerly Fort Hood) – Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center

   • Details: A military treatment facility serving active-duty personnel, retirees, and their families.
   • Hiring Trend: Federal positions are highly competitive but offer excellent pay, benefits, and job security. You must be a U.S. citizen and often need to pass a background check. Civilian CNA jobs here are rare but worth monitoring on USAJobs.gov.

Insider Tip: The biggest "secret" is the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). They hire CNAs for state-supported living centers and community care programs. These jobs offer state benefits and retirement plans that are often better than private facilities.

Getting Licensed in TX

Texas licenses CNAs through the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). The process is straightforward but requires attention to detail.

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: You must complete a minimum of 100 hours of training (including 60 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of clinical practice). In Killeen, reputable programs are offered at:

   • Central Texas College (CTC): The most recognized local provider. Offers day and evening classes.
   • Temple College: Slightly further in Temple, TX, but a strong program.
   • Various private schools: Research thoroughly; ensure they are state-approved.

2. Cost: Training programs typically cost between $800 - $1,500, depending on the school. Some employers (like nursing homes) may offer to pay for your training in exchange for a 6-12 month work commitment.

3. Pass the Competency Exam: After training, you must pass the state competency exam, which consists of a written (or oral) section and a skills demonstration. The exam fee is approximately $100-$120.

4. Background Check: Texas requires a criminal background check through the Department of Public Safety (DPS). This costs about $40 and can take 2-4 weeks.

5. Registry Application: Once you pass the exam, your name is added to the Nurse Aide Registry. You must apply for your certificate through the HHSC. This is a one-time fee of $25.

Timeline: From enrollment to being on the registry, expect 3 to 5 months if you attend full-time. Part-time programs can take longer.

Insider Tip: Take the exam within 90 days of finishing your training. Knowledge fades quickly. Join a local CNA study group on Facebook (search "Killeen CNA Students") for test tips and support.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Killeen’s neighborhoods are largely defined by their proximity to major employers and commute times. Traffic isn’t a major issue, but living close to work can save gas and time.

1. West Killeen / Near Fort Cavazos:

   • Vibe: Older, established neighborhoods with smaller, affordable homes and apartments. Close to the main gate of the fort.
   • Commute: 5-15 minutes to most hospitals and long-term care facilities.
   • Rent Estimate: $700 - $900 for a 1BR apartment.
   • Best For: CNAs working at the Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center or seeking the lowest rent.

2. South Killeen / Near Baylor Scott & White:

   • Vibe: Mix of older homes and newer subdivisions. Convenient to shopping and restaurants.
   • Commute: 10-20 minutes to most employers. The hospital is right in this area.
   • Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,050 for a 1BR apartment.
   • Best For: Those seeking a balance of affordability and modern amenities who work at Baylor or OSF.

3. Killeen Proper / Downtown:

   • Vibe: Historic charm with some revitalization efforts. Walkable to local shops and cafes.
   • Commute: Central to everything. 5-15 minutes to any major employer.
   • Rent Estimate: $750 - $1,000 for a 1BR apartment (often in older buildings).
   • Best For: CNAs who want a central location and don't mind an older apartment.

4. Harker Heights / Nolanville (Adjacent Cities):

   • Vibe: Slightly more suburban, with newer housing developments and better-rated schools. Considered a step up in terms of perceived safety and quiet.
   • Commute: 15-25 minutes to Killeen employers. You'll commute on I-14 or Hwy 190.
   • Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,200 for a 1BR apartment.
   • Best For: CNAs with families or those seeking a quieter, more suburban lifestyle and are willing to pay a bit more for rent.

Insider Tip: If you find an apartment complex in Killeen, ask current residents about the parking situation and noise levels. Some complexes near the fort can be crowded, especially during peak hours.

The Long Game: Career Growth

While the base salary of $34,880 is the starting point, a CNA in Killeen can strategically increase their earning potential through specialization and further education.

• Specialty Premiums:

  • ICU/Telemetry CNA: Working in critical care units often comes with a $2-$3/hour shift differential.
  • Certified Medication Aide (CMA): After gaining experience, you can take an additional state-approved course (40 hours) to administer medications in LTC facilities. This typically adds $1-$2/hour to your pay.
  • Home Health Aide (HHA) Certification: While not always mandatory, it can open doors to higher-paying private duty jobs.

• Advancement Paths:

  • Charge CNA: In LTC facilities, senior CNAs can be promoted to supervise a floor, adding a small premium.
  • Bridge to Nursing: The most common and lucrative path. Killeen has several ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) programs at Central Texas College and Temple College. Many local hospitals offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing their LPN or RN. This is the single best way to increase your salary significantly ($50k-$70k+ in Central Texas).

• 10-Year Outlook:
  With a 4% job growth rate, the market won't explode, but it will remain stable. The demand will be driven by the aging population and the continued presence of Fort Cavazos. CNAs who specialize (e.g., in gerontology or rehabilitation) or advance to nursing roles will have the best job security and highest earning potential.

Insider Tip: Network with nurses and managers at your job. Express your career goals. The best opportunities for promotion or tuition assistance are often offered internally before being advertised publicly.

The Verdict: Is Killeen Right for You?

Killeen is a pragmatic choice for a CNA. It’s not a glamorous city, but it offers a stable job market, a very low cost of living, and a clear path for career advancement if you’re motivated.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $34,880 salary goes much further here than in most Texas cities.	Limited Specialty Options: Fewer niche healthcare employers compared to Austin or DFW.
Stable Job Market: Anchored by hospitals, the military base, and a growing senior population.	Car Dependency: You need a reliable car; public transit is sparse.
Clear Career Advancement: Strong local community colleges for bridging to LPN/RN.	Military Town Culture: The city's rhythm is tied to the fort; can feel transient.
Central Location: Easy weekend trips to Austin, Waco, and the Texas Hill Country.	Lower Base Pay: Salaries are modest compared to national averages.

Final Recommendation

Killeen is an excellent choice for:

• A new CNA looking to gain experience without high living costs.
• Someone planning to use their CNA role as a stepping stone to an LPN/RN degree.
• An individual who values a low-stress, affordable lifestyle over big-city amenities.

Killeen may not be the best fit for:

• Someone seeking a wide variety of high-specialty nursing roles immediately.
• A person who prefers walkable, urban environments and public transportation.
• Those who are averse to the military community culture.

Bottom Line: If your primary goal is to build a financially stable foundation while advancing your healthcare career, Killeen is a solid, data-backed choice. The combination of a manageable salary-to-rent ratio and clear educational pathways makes it a practical launchpad for a long-term career in nursing.

FAQs

1. Do I need a car to work as a CNA in Killeen?
Yes, absolutely. Killeen is spread out, and public transportation (KART buses) is limited and not reliable for shift work, especially early mornings or late nights. Most employers are in suburban areas not easily accessible by foot or bike.

2. Is the job market saturated?
Not saturated, but competitive. With 319 jobs and 4% growth, there are opportunities, but many are for experienced CNAs. New graduates should be prepared to start in long-term care or home health to gain the required experience for hospital positions.

3. What's the best way to find a job in Killeen?
Online job boards (Indeed, Glassdoor) are useful, but local networking is key. Visit the Texas Workforce Commission office in Killeen, attend job fairs at Central Texas College, and check the career pages of Baylor Scott & White and OSF directly. Many facilities hire in batches.

4. Can I work in Killeen with a CNA license from another state?
Texas has reciprocity with many states. You will