Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Minot, ND

The Salary Picture: Where Minot Stands

Let’s get straight to the numbers, because that’s what matters when you’re making a move. As a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Minot, you’re looking at a median salary of $35,009 per year, which breaks down to a $16.83 hourly rate. This is slightly below the national average of $35,760, but you have to factor in the local cost of living, which we’ll get into.

Experience is the biggest driver of pay here. The job market in Minot is relatively small (95 total CNA jobs in the metro area), so positions are competitive, but longevity is rewarded. Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect to earn at different stages of your career in the Minot area:

Experience Level	Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary	Estimated Hourly Rate
Entry-Level	0 - 2 years	$30,000 - $33,000	$14.42 - $15.87
Mid-Level	2 - 5 years	$33,000 - $37,000	$15.87 - $17.79
Senior CNA	5 - 10 years	$37,000 - $41,000	$17.79 - $19.71
Expert/Lead	10+ years / Specialties	$41,000+	$19.71+

When you compare Minot to other North Dakota cities, the landscape is interesting. Fargo, with its major hospital systems and larger population, tends to offer slightly higher wages, often $36,000-$38,000 for mid-level CNAs. Bismarck, the state capital, is similar to Minot. However, the cost of living in those larger metros is also higher. Williston, an oil-boom town, has historically offered higher wages in all healthcare roles due to demand, but the market can be more volatile. Minot provides a stable, if modest, wage with a significantly lower cost of living than the national average.

Insider Tip: Don’t just look at the base wage. Ask about shift differentials (often an extra $2-$3/hour for nights and weekends) and overtime opportunities. At $16.83/hour, even a few extra shifts a month can make a substantial difference to your annual take-home.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The salary numbers are one thing; your actual disposable income is another. Let’s run a monthly budget for a CNA earning the median salary of $35,009/year.

Assumptions:

• Gross Monthly Pay: $35,009 / 12 = $2,917
• Taxes (Est. 20%): Federal, State, FICA. This is an approximation; your actual rate will vary.
• Rent: Using the average 1BR rent of $837/month.
• Utilities, Insurance, Transportation, Food, etc.

Expense Category	Monthly Cost (Est.)	Notes
Gross Pay	$2,917
Taxes (20%)	-$583	This can vary. ND has a progressive income tax.
Net Take-Home Pay	$2,334
Rent (1BR Avg.)	-$837
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet)	-$200	Minot winters are cold; heating is a real cost.
Groceries	-$350
Car Payment/Gas/Insurance	-$400	Minot is car-dependent.
Health Insurance (if not covered)	-$200	Variable; some employers cover this.
Misc. (Phone, Personal, etc.)	-$150
Remaining	$197

The Verdict on Homeownership: Can you afford to buy a home? It’s a stretch. The median home price in Minot is around $280,000. With a $35,000 salary, lenders will be hesitant. You’d need a significant down payment and would likely spend over 40% of your gross income on housing, which is not sustainable. The rental market is your best bet initially. Homeownership becomes more feasible if you have a dual-income household or move into a higher pay bracket ($45,000+).

Cost of Living Context: Minot’s Cost of Living Index is 93.0 (US avg = 100). This means your $35,009 in Minot feels more like $37,600 nationally. The biggest savings come from housing, which is about 25% below the national average.

Where the Jobs Are: Minot's Major Employers

The healthcare scene in Minot is dominated by a few key players. With only 95 CNA jobs in the metro, knowing who to target is crucial. The 10-year job growth for CNAs in ND is projected at 4%, which is slower than the national average, reflecting an aging but stable workforce. Here’s where you should be applying:

1. Trinity Health (Minot & Mercy Hospitals): This is the 800-pound gorilla. Trinity operates two major hospitals and a network of clinics. They are the largest employer in the region. Hiring is continuous, but they prioritize internal candidates. Insider Tip: Getting your foot in the door at Trinity as an entry-level CNA is the single best career move you can make in Minot. It opens doors to specialties and better shifts.

2. Souris Valley Care Center: A major long-term care and skilled nursing facility in Minot. This is a classic CNA employer with consistent need for staff for different care units. They often have more flexible scheduling than a hospital setting.

3. Northland Retirement Community & The View: These are two of the larger assisted living/independent living complexes. The pace is generally less hectic than a hospital or skilled nursing, but the pay can be slightly lower. A great option for those seeking a more predictable routine.

4. Des Lacs Valley Healthcare Center: Located just west of Minot, this is a critical access hospital with a connected long-term care wing. It’s a smaller, community-focused environment where CNAs often have a closer relationship with patients and staff.

5. Home Health Agencies: Companies like Interim HealthCare or Home Instead service the Minot area. These roles offer more independence but often less consistent hours. Perfect for CNAs who value flexibility or are pursuing further education.

6. Sanford Health: While Trinity is dominant, Sanford also has a strong clinic presence in Minot and is expanding. Keep an eye on their job board for opportunities, especially in outpatient or specialty clinics.

Hiring Trend: The demand is steady, not explosive. Employers are looking for reliable, certified CNAs with a clean background. Having experience with electronic health records (EHR) like Epic or Cerner (which Trinity uses) is a plus.

Getting Licensed in ND

To work as a CNA in North Dakota, you must be listed on the North Dakota Nurse Aide Registry. The process is straightforward but requires commitment.

Steps & Requirements:

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: This is typically a 75-hour course (classroom and clinical). Programs are offered at Minot State University, Bismarck State College, and private vocational schools. Cost ranges from $800 - $1,500. Some employers, like Trinity, may offer tuition assistance or paid training in exchange for a work commitment.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After training, you must pass both a written and skills test. The exam fee is approximately $125.
3. Submit Application to the ND Registry: Once you pass, you apply to be listed. There’s a small application fee.
4. Background Check: A fingerprint-based criminal background check is mandatory. This can take a few weeks and costs around $40.

Timeline: From starting a training program to being fully licensed and ready to work, expect 2-4 months. If you’re moving from another state, check if your certification is transferable. North Dakota has reciprocity with some states, but you must apply through the registry.

Insider Tip: If you’re already a CNA from another state, start the reciprocity process before you move. Contact the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services for the Nurse Aide Registry. Having your paperwork in order will make you a much more attractive candidate to employers.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Minot is a compact, easy-to-navigate city. Your choice of neighborhood will depend on your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a local’s guide:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	1BR Rent (Est.)	Best For
Downtown/Railroad District	Walkable coffee shops, bars, and events. Older, character apartments. Commute to Trinity Hospital is 5-10 mins.	$900 - $1,100	The young professional who wants to be central and doesn't mind a slightly higher rent.
South Hill/Eastwood	Quiet, residential, family-oriented. Mostly single-family homes. Commute is 10-15 mins to most healthcare facilities.	$750 - $950	CNAs with families or those seeking a quieter home life. Good value for space.
North Hill	Classic Minot neighborhood. Mix of older homes and apartments. Very close to Trinity's main campus. Commute is 5 mins.	$800 - $1,000	The pragmatic CNA who prioritizes the shortest possible commute. You'll see many coworkers here.
Bel Air/City Center	More modern apartment complexes and condos. Close to shopping (Dakota Square Mall area). Commute is 10 mins.	$850 - $1,050	Those who want newer amenities and easy access to retail, with a reasonable commute.
Perham/Outside City Limits	Truly suburban. Larger lots, newer subdivisions. You’ll need a car. Commute is 15-20 mins.	$950 - $1,200 (for a house)	CNAs with roommates or a partner looking for more space and a quieter, car-centric lifestyle.

Neighborhood Pro-Tip: If you work at Trinity Hospital (which you likely will), living on the North Hill or South Hill is ideal for minimizing commute time in winter. Minot’s roads are well-maintained, but blizzards happen, and a 5-minute drive is far safer than a 20-minute one in a snowstorm.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A CNA role in Minot is a solid entry point, but what’s the path forward? With a 4% job growth over 10 years, moving up within your current role is more likely than a sudden explosion of new positions.

• Specialty Premiums: As a CNA, you can earn more by seeking out specific units. At Trinity, you might earn an extra $1.50-$2.00/hour for working in the ICU, ER, or Labor & Delivery. These are competitive internal postings.
• Advancement Paths: The most common progression is to become a Medication Aide (CMA). This requires an additional $400-$600 in training and allows you to administer certain medications under a nurse's supervision, often with a pay bump. From there, you can pursue LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) or RN (Registered Nurse) degrees. Minot State University and Bismarck State College offer excellent LPN and RN programs.
• 10-Year Outlook: The demand will remain stable, driven by an aging population. However, automation and staffing models may change. The most successful CNAs will be those who pursue additional certifications (like phlebotomy or EKG tech) to add to their skillset. The key takeaway: Use your CNA role in Minot as a stepping stone. The experience is invaluable, and the cost of living makes saving for further education feasible.

The Verdict: Is Minot Right for You?

Making the move to Minot is a specific choice. It’s not for everyone, but for the right person, it can be a fantastic career and life decision.

Pros	Cons
Very low cost of living. Your $35,009 salary goes much further here.	Low wages compared to national average and larger metros.
Stable job market with major employers like Trinity Health.	Limited job market. Only 95 CNA jobs; competition can be fierce.
Short, easy commutes. 5-15 minutes is the norm.	Isolation. It’s a 2-hour drive to Bismarck, 4+ to Fargo.
Friendly, tight-knit community. You’ll know your neighbors and coworkers.	Extreme winters. Heavy snow, sub-zero temps, and blizzards are a reality.
Safe, family-friendly city with good parks and community events.	Limited diversity & nightlife. It’s a quiet, midwestern city.

Final Recommendation:
Minot is an excellent choice for a CNA who values affordability, stability, and a simple, community-focused lifestyle. If you are a new CNA looking to gain solid experience at a major health system without the crushing financial pressure of a big city, Minot is ideal. It’s also great for those with a partner or family where a single income can stretch far.

It’s not the right fit if you are seeking rapid career advancement, high wages, a vibrant arts and culture scene, or if you cannot tolerate harsh winter weather. For a CNA willing to work hard, embrace the community, and potentially use Minot as a launchpad for further education, it’s a pragmatic and rewarding place to build a life.

FAQs

Q: I’m a CNA from another state. Can I work in Minot immediately?
A: Not immediately. You must apply for reciprocity through the North Dakota Nurse Aide Registry. The process can take 4-6 weeks. It’s best to start this before you move. If your state isn’t on the reciprocity list, you may need to take the ND competency exam.

Q: What’s the weather really like, and how does it affect my job?
A: Winters are long, cold, and snowy. From November to March, expect snow and temperatures below freezing. Employers understand this—Tardiness due to weather is often excused if you call ahead. However, investing in a good winter jacket, snow boots, and a reliable car with all-wheel drive is non-negotiable.

Q: Are there opportunities for overtime?
A: Yes, especially in hospital settings like Trinity. Staffing needs are constant, and overtime is often available, particularly during flu season and summer when staff take vacations. This is a key way to boost your income beyond the $16.83/hour base rate.

Q: Is Minot a good place for a single CNA?
A: It can be, but it requires social effort. The community is friendly, but you won’t have a huge dating or social scene like in a larger city. Joining local groups (church, sports leagues, community events) is the best way to build a network. The affordability, however, is a huge plus for living alone.

Q: What’s the biggest surprise for new CNAs moving to Minot?
A: Two things: 1) How quickly you become part of the healthcare community. It’s a small world, and you’ll run into colleagues everywhere. 2) The wind. Minot is known as the "Magic City," but it's also the "Windy City." The prairie winds, especially in winter, are a force of nature you must get used to.