Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Lorain, OH

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Nursing Assistants considering Lorain, Ohio.

The Salary Picture: Where Lorain Stands

If you’re moving to Lorain expecting a massive paycheck, you’ll be disappointed. But if you’re looking for a stable wage in a city where your money stretches further, it’s a solid play. The median salary for a CNA in Lorain is $35,084/year, which breaks down to roughly $16.87/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $35,760/year, a gap you should factor into your decision-making.

Let’s break that down by experience. Entry-level CNAs can expect to start near $32,000, while those with 5-10 years of experience will hit the median. Truly seasoned CNAs with specialized skills (like hospice or dialysis) can approach $42,000 or more, especially if they work for larger hospital systems in neighboring cities.

Experience-Level Salary Breakdown

Experience Level	Annual Salary (Estimated)	Hourly Rate (Estimated)
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$32,000	$15.38
Mid-Level (3-5 yrs)	$35,084	$16.87
Senior-Level (5-10 yrs)	$38,500	$18.51
Expert/Specialized (10+ yrs)	$42,000+	$20.19+

Compared to other Ohio cities, Lorain sits on the lower end of the spectrum, but so does its cost of living. Cleveland, just 30 minutes east, pays a bit more (median around $37,500), but rent and daily expenses are significantly steeper. Toledo and Akron pay similar wages to Lorain. The 10-year job growth is projected at 4%, which is steady but not explosive. With 130 jobs in the metro area, the market is stable but competitive. You’ll need to stand out with a clean record and good references.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about the budget. A gross annual salary of $35,084 translates to approximately $2,924/month before taxes. After federal, state, and FICA taxes, your take-home pay will likely be around $2,400/month.

The average 1-bedroom apartment in Lorain rents for $913/month. That’s a manageable 38% of your take-home pay, leaving you with roughly $1,487 for everything else. This is livable, but tight.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (CNA Salary: $35,084/year)

Item	Estimated Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$2,924
Estimated Taxes (20%)	-$585	Federal, State, FICA
Net Monthly Pay	$2,400
Rent (1BR Avg)	-$913	38% of take-home
Utilities	-$180	Electric, heat, water, internet
Car Payment/Gas	-$300	Essential in Lorain; public transit is limited
Groceries	-$250
Health Insurance	-$150	(If not covered by employer)
Misc/Entertainment	-$100
Leftover/Savings	$507

Can you afford to buy a home? On a single CNA income, it’s a stretch. The median home price in Lorain is around $130,000. With a 20% down payment ($26,000), a mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would be roughly $850/month—which is actually less than rent. The catch is the down payment, which would require significant savings. It’s a long-term goal, but with a partner or roommate, it becomes much more achievable.

Where the Jobs Are: Lorain's Major Employers

Lorain’s healthcare scene is anchored by a few key players. The job market is tight, so knowing who’s hiring is critical.

1. University Hospitals Elyria Medical Center: Located just west of Lorain in Elyria, this is one of the region’s largest employers. They frequently hire CNAs for their medical-surgical floors and skilled nursing facilities. They offer strong benefits and tuition reimbursement, making it a great long-term employer.
2. Oberlin Health & Rehabilitation Center: A skilled nursing facility right in town. It’s a classic CNA employer offering consistent shifts (including weekends and nights). The insider tip: they value CNAs with experience in dementia care.
3. Amherst Health & Rehabilitation Center: Just a 10-minute drive south of Lorain, this facility is often hiring. The commute is easy, and they have a reputation for a supportive environment for new CNAs.
4. Mercy Health - Lorain Hospital: While the main Mercy Health campus is in nearby Lorain, their outpatient clinics and home health services frequently need CNAs for patient transport and in-home care. This is a great option for those who want to avoid the hospital floor.
5. Lorain County Public Health: They occasionally hire CNAs for community health programs, such as vaccination clinics or home visits for vulnerable populations. It’s a different pace from facility work and often offers a standard Monday-Friday schedule.
6. Local Home Health Agencies: Companies like Interim HealthCare and Comfort Keepers serve the Lorain area. This is an excellent path for CNAs who prefer one-on-one patient care and driving their own vehicle. Pay can be slightly higher due to mileage reimbursement.
7. Lorain County Community College (LCCC): While not a direct care employer, LCCC is the primary training hub for CNAs in the region. Their job placement board is a goldmine for local openings, and their partnerships with local employers provide a direct pipeline to employment.

Hiring Trends: There is a steady demand for CNAs willing to work second and third shifts. The 4% growth means new positions are created slowly, so turnover drives most openings. Building a relationship with a local staffing agency can help you land a position quickly.

Getting Licensed in Ohio

Ohio’s requirements are straightforward but must be followed precisely. The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) oversees the process.

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: You must complete a minimum of 75 hours of training, including both classroom and clinical instruction. In Lorain, the best place to do this is at Lorain County Community College (LCCC). Their program is well-regarded and costs approximately $1,200, which often includes books and exam fees. Some local nursing homes also offer free training in exchange for a work commitment.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After completing training, you must pass the state competency exam, which consists of a written (or oral) portion and a skills evaluation. The exam fee is around $100.
3. Apply for State Certification: Once you pass the exam, you apply to the ODH for your certification. The application fee is $50. The entire process, from starting class to getting your certificate, can take 3-4 months if you’re dedicated.
4. Background Check: You must pass a criminal background check through the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI). This is done through your training program or employer and costs approximately $35.

Insider Tip: Start your background check process early, as it can take a few weeks to clear. Also, once certified, you must renew every two years, which requires working at least 8 hours as a CNA in Ohio during the certification period.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Living in Lorain proper is affordable, but its neighborhoods vary. Here’s a breakdown for CNAs.

• Downtown Lorain: You’re close to the main hospitals and clinics, minimizing commute times (often under 10 minutes). It’s walkable, with local cafes and parks. Rent for a 1BR is around $850/month. Best for those who want an urban, active lifestyle with a short commute.
• South Lorain (Frenchtown): A quieter, residential area with single-family homes. It’s about a 10-15 minute drive to most healthcare employers. Very affordable, with 1BR apartments or small houses renting for $800-$900/month. Ideal for those who want space and a suburban feel.
• Amherst (Just South): Technically a separate city, but a top choice for healthcare workers. It’s safer, has better-rated schools, and is only a 10-minute commute to Lorain hospitals. Rent is slightly higher, averaging $950/month for a 1BR, but you get a higher quality of life.
• Oberlin (20 mins East): A vibrant college town (home to Oberlin College). The vibe is progressive and intellectual. Commute to Lorain is about 20-25 minutes. Rent is competitive, around $900/month. Great for CNAs who want cultural amenities and a young community.
• Sheffield-Sheffield Lake (West): A quiet, lake-adjacent community west of Lorain. Excellent for those who work at the Elyria Medical Center (10-15 mins). It’s very residential and peaceful, with rents from $900-$1,000/month.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A CNA license in Ohio is a fantastic entry point, but you don’t have to stay at the median salary forever.

• Specialty Premiums: CNAs who gain certifications in dialysis, hospice care, or phlebotomy can command higher wages. Working in a specialized unit like an ICU or labor & delivery (as a patient care tech) at a larger hospital in Cleveland can push your hourly rate toward $20-$22/hour.
• Advancement Paths: The most common path is to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or a Registered Nurse (RN). Lorain County Community College offers excellent, affordable LPN and RN programs. Many local employers, like University Hospitals, offer tuition assistance for employees advancing their degrees. With an RN license, your salary in the Lorain area jumps to a median of $72,000-$78,000/year.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 4% growth for CNAs is steady. However, the demand for LPNs and RNs is much higher. Over 10 years, the smart play is to use your CNA experience as a stepping stone. The hands-on care you gain in Lorain’s facilities is invaluable clinical experience for nursing school. The local job market for advanced nurses is robust, with strong growth projected in home health and geriatric care due to the aging population.

The Verdict: Is Lorain Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Very Low Cost of Living: Your salary goes much further here than in major metros.	Lower-Than-Average Pay: The median wage is below the national average.
Stable Job Market: 130 jobs and 4% growth provide steady opportunities.	Limited Public Transit: A car is a necessity, adding to monthly costs.
Top-Tier Training: LCCC provides a direct pipeline to local employers.	Slower Pace: Fewer specialty medical centers compared to Cleveland.
Proximity to Cleveland: You can live affordably in Lorain and access higher-paying jobs in Cleveland with a 30-minute commute.	Economic Challenges: Lorain has areas facing economic hardship, which can impact local services.
Diverse Communities: A mix of urban, suburban, and small-town options.	Weather: Long, gray winters can be difficult for some.

Final Recommendation: Lorain is an excellent choice for a CNA who is pragmatic and values financial stability over high glamour. It’s a perfect launchpad. You can get your license affordably, gain solid experience in local facilities, and build a life without being crushed by rent. If you’re ambitious, use Lorain as a base to complete nursing school at LCCC, then leverage your local network to advance. For a CNA wanting a manageable, community-focused career, Lorain is a smart, strategic move.

FAQs

1. Is it easy to find a CNA job in Lorain with no experience?
Yes, but you need to be strategic. The market is competitive, but facilities like nursing homes (Oberlin Health, Amherst Health) are more likely to hire new CNAs than major hospitals. Start with a staffing agency for per-diem work to get your foot in the door. Having your certification from LCCC also gives you a significant advantage.

2. How does the cost of living in Lorain compare to nearby Cleveland?
Lorain is significantly cheaper. While a CNA in Cleveland might make $2,000 more per year, the average rent for a 1BR in Cleveland is often $1,100+. After housing and transportation, your disposable income in Lorain is likely higher. You’re trading some amenities for financial breathing room.

3. What’s the commute like if I live in Lorain but work in Elyria or Cleveland?
Very manageable. To Elyria (e.g., University Hospitals Elyria Medical Center) is a 10-15 minute drive. To downtown Cleveland is 25-35 minutes via I-90. Having a reliable car is key. Traffic is rarely a major issue compared to larger cities.

4. Can I work as a CNA in Lorain while in nursing school?
Absolutely, and it’s highly recommended. Many local employers offer tuition reimbursement or flexible scheduling for nursing students. The experience is invaluable for your studies. LCCC’s program is designed with working adults in mind, offering evening and weekend classes.

5. What is the job market like for CNAs in home health vs. facilities in Lorain?
Both are active. Facility jobs (nursing homes, hospitals) offer set schedules and team environments. Home health jobs offer more independence and one-on-one care but require a valid driver’s license and a reliable vehicle. Home health pay can be slightly higher due to mileage reimbursement and a higher demand for weekend visits. It’s a matter of personal preference.