The Complete Career Guide for Nursing Assistants in Longmont, CO

As a local who’s watched Longmont’s healthcare landscape evolve from the plains to the foothills, I can tell you this city offers a unique blend of opportunity and challenge for Nursing Assistants (CNAs). Forget the glossy brochures; let’s talk real numbers, real commutes, and what it actually takes to build a life here. Longmont isn’t Boulder or Denver—we’re a self-contained community with a strong sense of self. For CNAs, that means a stable job market, but one you need to navigate with a clear-eyed view of the cost of living.

The Salary Picture: Where Longmont Stands

Let’s start with the hard data. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local job market analysis, the median salary for CNAs in Longmont is $35,749/year. At an hourly rate of $17.19/hour, this is slightly below the national average of $35,760/year. The metro area has 198 jobs specifically for Nursing Assistants, and the 10-year job growth is projected at 4%. This isn’t a boomtown for this profession, but it’s a steady, reliable market.

To understand what this number really means, you need to look at the experience breakdown. The numbers below are estimates based on regional data and local employer pay scales.

Experience Level	Annual Salary	Hourly Rate	Typical Settings
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$31,000 - $34,000	$14.90 - $16.35	Nursing homes, assisted living, per-diem agency work
Mid-Level (3-5 yrs)	$35,749 (Median)	$17.19	Hospitals (Longmont United), dialysis, home health
Senior (6-10 yrs)	$38,500 - $42,000	$18.50 - $20.20	Specialized units (LTC, rehab), lead CNA roles, hospice
Expert (10+ yrs)	$43,000+	$20.67+	Management, education, niche agencies, travel CNA

Insider Tip: The "median" is a useful benchmark, but your starting pay is heavily influenced by the employer. A CNA at a large hospital in nearby Boulder might start higher, but the commute adds cost and stress. Longmont employers often have differentials for weekend, night, and holiday shifts that can add $1.50-$3.00/hour to your base rate.

How Longmont Compares to Other Colorado Cities

Salary isn't everything. Here’s how Longmont stacks up against other Front Range cities, considering both pay and cost of living.

City	Median CNA Salary	1BR Avg Rent	Cost of Living Index	Job Market Size
Longmont	$35,749	$1,548	99.9	Moderate (198 jobs)
Denver	$37,200	$1,800+	110.8	Large
Boulder	$36,500	$2,000+	128.7	Large
Colorado Springs	$34,800	$1,350	103.7	Moderate
Fort Collins	$36,000	$1,550	106.9	Moderate

Key Takeaway: Longmont offers a salary that is competitive with its direct peers (like Fort Collins) but comes with a significantly lower cost of living than Boulder or Denver. You trade the high-energy, high-cost urban centers for a more manageable, community-focused environment.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A median salary of $35,749 translates to roughly $2,979/month before taxes. Let’s break down a realistic monthly budget for a single CNA living in Longmont.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Pre-Tax: $2,979)

• Gross Monthly Income: $2,979
• Taxes (Federal, State, FICA ~22%): -$655
• Net Take-Home Pay: ~$2,324

Expenses:

• Rent (1BR Average): -$1,548
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet): -$150
• Car Payment/Insurance/Gas: -$350 (Longmont is car-dependent)
• Groceries: -$300
• Health Insurance (if not fully covered): -$150
• Miscellaneous (Phone, Personal, Emergency Fund): -$150
• Total Expenses: $2,648

The Gap: -$324 per month. This is the critical reality check. On a single median income, a CNA in Longmont will find it very difficult to cover basic expenses without overtime, a second income, or significant budgeting. Rent is the primary driver. A roommate situation (aiming for $900-$1,100 in rent) would make the budget much more workable.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home? With a $35,749 income, qualifying for a mortgage on a median-priced home in Longmont (currently around $550,000) is not feasible. Lenders typically recommend a housing payment (PITI) under 28% of gross income. Here, that would be about $830/month—a fraction of what a mortgage would cost. Homeownership is a long-term goal that would require dual incomes, significant career advancement, or a move to a more affordable market.

Where the Jobs Are: Longmont's Major Employers

Longmont’s healthcare job market is anchored by a mix of hospital systems, long-term care, and home health agencies. Hiring trends show a steady demand, with a slight uptick in home health and hospice roles due to an aging population.

1. Longmont United Hospital (Part of SCL Health/Intermountain): The largest employer for hospital-based CNAs. They offer benefits, consistent shifts, and opportunities to work in med-surg, orthopedics, and rehab. Insider tip: They often have tuition reimbursement for LPN/RN programs if you want to advance.
2. Life Care Center of Longmont: A major skilled nursing facility. They have a high volume of residents and frequently hire CNAs for both day and night shifts. They value reliability and experience with dementia care.
3. Sunrise Senior Living (Longmont): An upscale assisted living community. They focus on a more personalized care model and often look for CNAs with strong communication skills. Pay can be at the higher end for the area.
4. Boulder Community Health - Foothills Hospital (Boulder, but a major regional employer): A 20-minute commute that many Longmont CNAs make. They have a broader range of specialty units (e.g., labor & delivery, NICU support) and often post jobs for patient care technicians (CNA-equivalent).
5. Home Health Agencies (e.g., Visiting Nurse Association, AccentCare): These roles offer more autonomy and one-on-one patient care. Hiring is strong, but schedules can be variable. You need a reliable vehicle and comfortable with driving across Boulder County.
6. Dialysis Clinics (e.g., DaVita, Fresenius): These are specialized, predictable roles (typically daytime shifts). They require specific training but offer excellent experience and often pay a premium over standard LTC rates.

Hiring Trend: The most consistent openings are in long-term care and hospital med-surg units. The home health sector is growing, but it can be competitive for the best agencies.

Getting Licensed in Colorado

Colorado’s licensing process is straightforward but requires attention to detail. You cannot work as a CNA without a valid certification.

Requirements & Costs:

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: These are offered at community colleges (like Front Range Community College in Westminster, a common option for Longmont residents), vocational schools, and some nursing homes. The program is typically 120 hours (classroom and clinical).
2. Pass the Competency Exam: The exam consists of a written (or oral) test and a skills demonstration. The exam fee is approximately $150-$200 (paid to the testing vendor, like Headmaster).
3. Submit Application to the Colorado Board of Nursing: Once you pass the exam, you apply for your listing on the Colorado Nurse Aide Registry. The application fee is included in the exam fee.

Timeline to Get Started:

• Training Program: 4-8 weeks (depending on full-time/part-time).
• Scheduling & Taking Exam: 2-4 weeks.
• Registry Processing: 1-2 weeks.
• Total Time: 2-3 months from start to being able to apply for jobs.

Insider Tip: Some employers, especially nursing homes, will sponsor your training if you commit to working for them for a set period (e.g., 6-12 months). This is a fantastic way to avoid upfront costs, but be sure to read the contract terms carefully.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Where you live in Longmont affects your commute, budget, and lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of neighborhoods, with rent estimates for a 1-bedroom apartment.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg. 1BR Rent	Best For...
Central/Downtown	Walkable to shops, restaurants, and the hospital. Older buildings, some new lofts.	$1,450 - $1,650	CNAs who want a short walk/bike to work at Longmont United and a vibrant, urban feel.
South Longmont (Near 9th St)	Residential, quieter, good access to US-36 for commutes to Boulder. Mostly single-family homes and apartments.	$1,400 - $1,550	Those seeking a community feel with easy highway access. Good for commuters to Boulder.
Eastside (Near Hover Rd)	Family-oriented, newer developments, good schools. A bit more suburban.	$1,550 - $1,700	CNAs with families or who want more space and newer amenities. Commute to eastside employers is easy.
Westside (Near 8th Ave)	Older, established neighborhoods with character. Close to parks and the St. Vrain Greenway.	$1,350 - $1,500	Budget-conscious CNAs who value history, walkability, and proximity to nature.
Twin Peaks (North Longmont)	Quiet, suburban, with mountain views. Commute to central Longmont is 10-15 minutes.	$1,300 - $1,450	Those who prefer a quieter home base and don’t mind a short drive to work.

Commute Note: Longmont is very car-centric. Public transit (RTD) is limited and often inconvenient for shift work. Factor in a reliable vehicle and parking costs.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A CNA in Longmont can build a solid career, but advancement requires strategic moves.

Specialty Premiums:

• Dialysis: Can add $2-$4/hour to your base rate.
• Home Health/Hospice: Often pays by the visit or mile, which can be more or less than hourly depending on your schedule.
• Hospital Specialties (ICU/Tele): May offer a small differential for working in higher-acuity units.

Advancement Paths:

1. CNA to LPN/RN: This is the most common path. Front Range Community College (Westminster campus) and other local schools offer bridge programs. With employer tuition reimbursement, you can often get your LPN or RN with minimal debt.
2. CNA to Specialized Technician: Become a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) or Electrocardiogram (ECG) Technician. This can open doors in clinics and hospitals.
3. CNA to Management: With experience, you can become a CNA supervisor, charge aide, or move into long-term care administration.

10-Year Outlook (4% Growth): The growth is steady, not explosive. The demand will be driven by the aging population. The key to longevity is specialization. A generalist CNA will see slower wage growth than one who specializes in dialysis, hospice, or obtains an LPN license.

The Verdict: Is Longmont Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Stable, moderate job market with a variety of employers.	Salary barely covers cost of living on a single income.
Lower cost of living compared to Boulder/Denver.	Car-dependent with limited public transit for shift work.
Strong community feel and manageable size.	Housing is a major challenge, especially for renters.
Proximity to mountains and outdoor recreation.	Job growth is slow (4%); career advancement requires further education.
Clear path to advancement via local colleges and employer benefits.	Competition for the best shifts at top employers can be stiff.

Final Recommendation: Longmont is an excellent choice for a CNA who is not seeking to live alone on a single median income. It is ideal for:

• A CNA in a relationship with a dual income.
• A new CNA willing to start with a roommate to build savings.
• Someone with a clear plan to advance to LPN/RN within 2-4 years, leveraging Longmont’s affordable training options.
• A person who prioritizes community, manageable commutes, and access to nature over high-density urban energy.

If you need to support a family solely on a CNA salary, Longmont will be a significant financial strain. But with strategic planning, it can be a stepping stone to a rewarding healthcare career in a beautiful, welcoming community.

FAQs

1. Can I find CNA jobs that offer benefits in Longmont?
Yes. Most full-time positions at Longmont United Hospital, Life Care Center, and Sunrise Senior Living offer benefits packages that include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Part-time or per-diem roles typically do not.

2. Is it common for CNAs to commute from Longmont to Denver or Boulder?
It is common, but not ideal. The commute to Boulder adds 20-50 minutes each way, and to Denver can be 45-90 minutes. You must weigh the higher pay against the cost of gas, vehicle wear, and lost time. Many CNAs choose to work locally for better work-life balance.

3. What is the most in-demand shift for new CNAs in Longmont?
Evening and night shifts at nursing homes and hospitals are often the easiest to get. Weekend shifts are also in high demand. If you are flexible, you will find a job quickly.

4. How do I get my CNA license if I’m moving from another state?
Colorado has reciprocity. If your license is active and in good standing, you can apply to have it transferred to the Colorado Nurse Aide Registry. You will need to submit documentation from your home state. The process can take several weeks, so start early.

5. Are there CNA agencies in Longmont that offer flexible schedules?
Yes, several home health agencies and per-diem staffing agencies service the Longmont area. They can provide flexibility, but pay may be slightly lower as you forgo benefits. This is a good option for those who need to work around school or family schedules.

Data Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Colorado Board of Nursing, U.S. Census Bureau, local rental market data (Zillow, RentCafe), and employer job postings (2023-2024).