Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Laconia, NH

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Nursing Assistants considering Laconia, New Hampshire.

---

The Salary Picture: Where Laconia Stands

If you're moving to Laconia as a Nursing Assistant (CNA), the first thing to understand is that wages here sit at a specific intersection of New England's cost of living and the regional healthcare demand. The data tells a clear story: you're entering a market with modest, steady opportunities rather than explosive growth, but with a wage that can be manageable if you budget carefully.

The median salary for a CNA in Laconia is $36,725/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $17.66/hour. This is slightly above the national average of $35,760/year. While that gap isn't vast, it's significant in a state with no income or sales tax, where your take-home pay goes further than in many other states. The job market is small but stable, with approximately 33 jobs in the metro area and a projected 10-year job growth of 4%. This isn't a booming sector, but it's resilient, driven by an aging population in the Lakes Region.

Experience-Level Breakdown Table

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary Range	Key Responsibilities & Notes
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$33,000 - $35,500	Basic patient care, vital signs, assisting with ADLs (Activities of Daily Living). Often starts in nursing homes or assisted living.
Mid-Level (3-5 yrs)	$36,000 - $39,000	Can specialize in areas like dementia care, rehab, or wound care. Often takes on preceptor or shift-lead roles.
Senior (6-10 yrs)	$39,500 - $42,000	May handle more complex cases, train new CNAs, or work in specialized units (e.g., palliative care).
Expert (10+ yrs)	$42,000 - $45,000+	Often in charge of a unit, mentoring, or working in niche home health roles. Top earners may work for private clients.

Insider Tip: The jump from Entry to Mid-Level is where you'll see the most significant percentage increase. Specializing in areas like geriatrics or physical rehabilitation can push you toward the higher end of the Mid-Level range faster.

Comparison to Other NH Cities

Laconia's wage is competitive within New Hampshire's healthcare landscape, especially considering its cost of living.

City	Median CNA Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	Notes
Laconia	$36,725	109.0	Balanced market, lower pressure than urban centers.
Manchester	$37,500	~105	Higher pay, but more competition and urban pace.
Concord	$37,200	~103	State capital, more government jobs, similar cost.
Nashua	$38,000	~108	Higher pay, but closer to Boston market pressures.
Berlin	$34,500	~90	Lower cost of living, but fewer jobs and lower wages.

Laconia offers a "sweet spot" for those who want decent pay without the hustle of Manchester or Nashua. The 109.0 Cost of Living Index is driven by housing and transportation, but with no state income tax, your $17.66/hour goes further here than in a state with a 6% income tax.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's be direct: living in Laconia on $36,725/year is possible, but it requires a tight budget, especially with the current rental market. The average 1-bedroom apartment costs $1,471/month. Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown for a single CNA earning the median wage.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Based on $36,725 Annual Salary)

Category	Amount	Notes & Practical Advice
Gross Monthly Income	$3,060	Before any deductions.
Taxes (Fed & FICA)	~$390	NH has no state income tax, which is a huge advantage. Federal taxes vary, but this is a rough estimate for a single filer.
Take-Home Pay	~$2,670	After taxes. This is your working budget.
Rent (1BR avg)	$1,471	This is the biggest hurdle. It consumes ~55% of take-home pay, which is above the recommended 30% threshold.
Utilities (Elec/Heat)	$180	Older housing stock in Laconia can mean higher heating costs in winter.
Groceries & Essentials	$300	Budgeting is key. Shopping locally at places like Market Basket in Gilford or Laconia can save money.
Transportation	$200	Car insurance is high in NH. Gas is needed unless you live downtown.
Healthcare/Insurance	$150	Varies by employer; some offer excellent benefits.
Debt/Discretionary	$369	Left for cell phone, internet, car payment, savings, and personal spending.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

On a $36,725 salary, buying a home in Laconia is extremely challenging without a dual income or substantial savings. The median home price in the Lakes Region is well over $350,000. A monthly mortgage payment would likely exceed $2,000, which is unsustainable on a single CNA's income.

Insider Tip: Many healthcare workers in Laconia solve the housing puzzle by living in shared housing, renting older apartments in the North End or outside the immediate downtown core (like Gilford or Meredith), or by having a partner with an additional income. Homeownership is often a long-term goal achieved after advancing to a higher nursing role (LPN/RN) or after years of senior-level experience.

Where the Jobs Are: Laconia's Major Employers

The job market is concentrated in senior care and hospital-based roles. Laconia is a healthcare hub for the surrounding Lakes Region. Here are the primary employers, their focus, and what to know about their hiring trends.

1. Genesis HealthCare (Belknap County Nursing Home): Located right in Laconia, this is one of the largest employers of CNAs in the city. It's a skilled nursing facility (SNF) that offers consistent hours and benefits. Hiring is steady, especially for the winter season when staff burnout can occur. They often host open interviews.
2. Lakes Region General Hospital (LRGH): A critical access hospital part of the Lakes Region Healthcare system. LRGH has a strong rehab and long-term care unit. This is a prime spot for CNAs wanting hospital experience. Hiring trends show a preference for candidates with experience in acute care or rehab settings.
3. Taylor Community - Pleasant View Gardens & The Village: This is a large, non-profit retirement community in Laconia with independent living, assisted living, and a skilled nursing facility (Pleasant View). They have a high turnover rate for CNAs, which means frequent openings. They offer great benefits and a beautiful work environment, but the pace can be fast.
4. Belmont Healthcare Center: Located just south of Laconia in Belmont, this is another major SNF. It's a common starting point for new CNAs in the area. The commute is short (10-15 minutes), and they often have flexible shifts.
5. Home Health Agencies (e.g., Visiting Nurse Association of the Lakes Region): Based in Concord but serving Laconia, these agencies hire for in-home care. This role offers more autonomy and one-on-one patient interaction. Hiring is growing as more seniors choose to age in place.
6. Private Assisted Living Facilities: Smaller, privately-owned assisted living homes (scattered through Laconia, Meredith, and Gilford) are always looking for reliable staff. These often offer a more intimate work environment but may have fewer benefits than larger employers.

Hiring Trend Insight: The most consistent hiring happens in the fall and winter at SNFs and assisted living facilities. Summer sees more turnover as staff take seasonal jobs, creating openings. Having your NH CNA license and a clean background check is the biggest advantage.

Getting Licensed in NH

New Hampshire's licensing process is straightforward but requires proactive steps. You cannot work as a CNA without being listed on the state registry.

Requirements & Costs:

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: You must complete a training program that includes 75 hours of training (including 16 hours of clinical skills). In the Laconia area, you can find programs at:
   • Lakes Region Community College (LRCC) in Laconia: Offers a CNA certificate program. Tuition is approximately $1,200 - $1,500.
   • Belknap County Nursing Home: Sometimes offers training programs in exchange for a work commitment.
   • Red Cross Chapter: Offers courses periodically.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After training, you must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, which includes a written (or oral) part and a skills test. The exam fee is around $115.
3. Apply for State Certification: Submit your application to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). There is no additional fee for initial certification if you pass the exam.
4. Background Check: A criminal background check is required (cost ~$50).

Timeline to Get Started:

• Enroll in a Program (1-2 weeks): Research programs and enroll.
• Training (3-8 weeks): Depending on the schedule (day/evening/weekend classes).
• Schedule & Pass Exam (2-4 weeks): After training, schedule your exam and complete it.
• License Issuance (2-4 weeks): Once you pass, your name is added to the state registry. You can start working.

Total Estimated Cost: $1,300 - $1,700 (including tuition, exam, and background check). Some employers may offer tuition reimbursement if you commit to working for them for a certain period.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Commuting in Laconia is generally easy, but where you live impacts your lifestyle and budget. Here are four areas to consider:

1. Downtown Laconia & The North End:
   • Lifestyle: Walkable to shops, restaurants, and LRGH. Easier to live without a car.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,250 - $1,500/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Those who value urban convenience and a short commute.
2. Gilford (10 mins north):
   • Lifestyle: Quieter, more residential, with excellent schools and access to Gunstock Mountain. A very short commute to Laconia hospitals and SNFs.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,400 - $1,600/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Those seeking a suburban feel with a quick commute.
3. Meredith (12 mins south):
   • Lifestyle: Tourist-centric, charming village on Lake Winnipesaukee. More seasonal activity, which can mean noise and traffic in summer.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,500 - $1,800/month for a 1BR (premium for location).
   • Best For: Those who love the lake atmosphere and don't mind a slightly longer commute.
4. Belmont (10 mins south):
   • Lifestyle: Rural, quiet, and more affordable. Home to the Belmont Healthcare Center, so you could work and live nearby.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,100 - $1,300/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Budget-conscious individuals who don't mind a car-dependent lifestyle.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 4% 10-year job growth indicates stability, not rapid expansion. Advancement for a CNA in Laconia typically involves further education or specializing.

• Specialty Premiums: CNAs with advanced certifications (like Certified Dementia Care Practitioner or Restorative Nursing Assistant) can command a $1 - $2/hour premium. Specializing in geropsychiatric care or dialysis can also increase marketability.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): A 1-2 year program at LRCC. This is the most common next step. LPNs in Laconia earn a median of $52,000 - $58,000/year, a significant jump.
  2. Registered Nurse (RN): Requires an Associate's (ADN) or Bachelor's (BSN) degree. RNs in the area earn $75,000 - $90,000+. LRCC offers an ADN program, and several BSN programs are within an hour's drive.
  3. Specialized Certifications: Become a CNA II (in some facilities) or get certified in phlebotomy or EKG tech. This can lead to roles in cardiology or outpatient clinics.
• 10-Year Outlook: The demand will be driven by the aging of the "Baby Boomer" generation. However, the small job market (33 jobs) means competition for the best positions (at LRGH or Taylor Community) will be steady. The key to growth is not just waiting for jobs to appear, but actively pursuing the next level of education.

The Verdict: Is Laconia Right for You?

Laconia offers a realistic, if modest, career path for CNAs who value quality of life, access to outdoor recreation, and a strong community feel over high-octane career progression.

Pros	Cons
No State Income Tax: Increases your take-home pay.	Housing is expensive relative to the median wage; buying a home is a challenge.
Stable, Local Job Market in healthcare with predictable employers.	Limited job growth (4%) means fewer opportunities for rapid advancement here.
Access to Nature & Recreation: Lakes, mountains, trails are all at your doorstep.	Smaller job pool (33 jobs) means less choice; you may need to commute to a nearby town.
Manageable Commute: Most jobs are within a 15-minute drive.	Winters are long and can be isolating; seasonal depression is a real consideration.
Tight-Knit Healthcare Community where you can quickly build a reputation.	Fewer specialized roles compared to larger cities.

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

• Is starting their career and wants a manageable, stable environment to gain experience.
• Loves the outdoors and a slower pace of life.
• Is considering pursuing an LPN or RN degree in the future (LRCC is a great launchpad).
• Is comfortable with budgeting and potentially shared housing initially.

It is not ideal for a CNA seeking rapid salary growth, a wide variety of employer choices, or an urban social scene.

FAQs

1. Can I work in Laconia with a CNA license from another state?
Yes, but you must apply for reciprocity with the New Hampshire Board of Nursing. If your home state's requirements are similar to NH's (75-hour training, exam), the process is straightforward and can take 4-6 weeks.

2. Are there opportunities for part-time or per-diem work?
Absolutely. Nursing homes and home health agencies in the Laconia area frequently hire for weekend, evening, and per-diem shifts. This is a great way to supplement income or work while in school.

3. What is the biggest challenge for CNAs moving to Laconia?
The initial housing search. The rental market is competitive, and the cost can be a shock. It's advisable to secure a job first, then look for housing, or consider living in a neighboring town like Belmont or Gilford for more affordable options.

4. Is it necessary to have a car?
Almost always. While downtown Laconia has some walkability, most healthcare jobs are spread out. Public transportation is very limited. A reliable car is essential for commuting and grocery shopping.

5. How do I stand out when applying for jobs here?
In a small market, personal connections matter. Insider Tip: Attend a job fair at Lakes Region Community College or the Belknap County Nursing Home. Having your NH license (or being enrolled in a program) and a clean background check makes you stand out immediately. Being willing to work nights or weekends is also a huge advantage.

Data Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, New Hampshire Department of Employment Security, U.S. Census Bureau, NH Board of Nursing, local rental market analyses (Zillow, Rent.com), and community college program catalogs.