Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Norman, OK

The Salary Picture: Where Norman Stands

Norman sits in a unique position compared to the rest of Oklahoma and the nation when it comes to Nursing Assistant (CNA) wages. It's not the top-paying metro in the state, but its cost of living provides a significant buffer that many overlook.

The median annual salary for a CNA in Norman is $34,794/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $16.73/hour. This is slightly below the national average for CNAs, which sits at $35,760/year. However, this comparison is deceptive without context. The national average skews heavily toward coastal cities with astronomical living costs. In practical terms, Norman's wage allows for a stable, if modest, lifestyle for a single earner.

Here’s how experience typically breaks down within the Norman market. These are generalized ranges based on local job postings and industry conversations; individual employers may vary.

| Experience Level | Typical Norman Salary Range | Notes |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $30,000 - $32,000/year | Often starts in nursing homes or home health. Limited benefits. |
| Mid-Level (2-5 years) | $33,000 - $37,000/year | Hospital roles (Norman Regional) often start here. More shift differentials. |
| Senior/Expert (5+ years) | $37,000 - $42,000/year | Specialized units (ICU, rehab), lead roles, or agency work. |
| Specialty/Lead CNA | $40,000+ | Requires additional certifications (e.g., phlebotomy, EKG). |

Comparison to Other OK Cities:

• Oklahoma City Metro: Median salary is closer to $36,500/year. The premium is about $2,000, but OKC rents are roughly 15-20% higher.
• Tulsa Metro: Similar to OKC, with a median around $36,000/year. Cost of living is comparable to OKC.
• Smaller Towns (e.g., Ardmore, Shawnee): Salaries drop to $31,000 - $$33,000/year, but rents can be significantly lower.

Insider Tip: The 4% 10-year job growth for CNAs in Norman is modest but steady. It reflects an aging population and the expansion of Norman Regional Health System. The 260 jobs in the metro indicate a stable, but not explosive, market. You won't find competitive bidding wars for your services, but turnover is constant enough that opportunities exist for those with clean records and good references.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s be direct: A CNA earning the median salary of $34,794/year in Norman will have a tight but manageable budget. The key is Norman's exceptionally affordable housing.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Single CNA Earning $34,794/year:

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Income	$2,899	Before taxes.
Taxes (Fed, FICA, State OK)	~$550 - $600	Approx. 19-21% effective rate.
Net Take-Home Pay	~$2,300	This is your working budget.
Rent (1BR Average)	$773	The cornerstone of affordability.
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water, Internet)	$180 - $220	Norman's climate means higher summer AC bills.
Car Payment/Insurance	$350 - $500	Assumes a modest used car; insurance is high in OK.
Gas	$120 - $150	Commute-dependent. Norman is spread out.
Groceries	$300 - $400	A single person.
Health Insurance	$150 - $300	If not covered by employer; varies widely.
Miscellaneous/Savings	~$200 - $400	Phone, clothing, savings, emergencies.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
On a $34,794 salary, buying a home in Norman is a stretch, but not impossible for a disciplined single earner with a partner or roommate. The median home price in Norman is around $250,000. A 20% down payment is $50,000. On this salary, saving that amount would take many years.

However, Norman has excellent programs for first-time homebuyers, and USDA Rural Development loans cover parts of Norman (especially south of I-35), requiring $0 down. Your monthly mortgage, taxes, and insurance would likely be $1,400-$1,600+, which is a significant jump from rent but potentially manageable if you have no other major debt. Many local CNAs achieve homeownership through dual-income households or by starting with a duplex/rental unit.

Where the Jobs Are: Norman's Major Employers

Norman's healthcare ecosystem is dominated by one major system, with several strong supporting players. Here’s where you’ll find the 260 jobs.

1. Norman Regional Health System (NRHS): The 800-pound gorilla. NRHS operates Norman Regional Hospital (on Porter Ave and 9th St), Moore Medical Center, and a network of clinics. They are the largest employer of CNAs in the city.

   • Hiring Trend: Consistent. They have a dedicated CNA training program and often hire from within. Pay is solid, with shift differentials for nights and weekends. Benefits are typically good. Insider Tip: Get your foot in the door at the Porter Ave campus. The prestige and experience here open doors everywhere else.

2. Cleveland Area Hospital/Clayton: A critical access hospital on the east side, part of the Integris system. It serves a specific demographic and has a steady need for CNAs, especially in the ER and med-surg units.

   • Hiring Trend: Steady. Less corporate than NRHS. Often a great place for CNAs who want a smaller, community-focused environment.

3. Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center (Oklahoma City): While not in Norman, it's a major employer for Norman residents. The drive is 30-45 minutes south on I-35. Federal pay scales are higher (often starting at $38,000+), and benefits are unparalleled.

   • Hiring Trend: Competitive. Requires passing a federal background check. Positions are posted on USAJobs.gov. It's a long-term career move for many local CNAs.

4. The James L. Hall Jr. Center for Nursing & Rehabilitation: A large, well-regarded long-term care facility on Tecumseh Rd. It's a primary employer for CNAs specializing in geriatric care.

   • Hiring Trend: High turnover (common in nursing homes) means frequent openings. Starting pay may be at the lower end, but experience here is highly valued.

5. Local Home Health Agencies (e.g., Visiting Nurse Association, Comfort Keepers): These agencies serve patients in their homes across Norman and surrounding areas. Pay can be variable (hourly, sometimes mileage reimbursement).

   • Hiring Trend: Growing. Demand for in-home care is rising with the aging population. Offers more flexible scheduling but fewer benefits.

6. The University of Oklahoma (OU) Health Sciences Center & Athletic Department: OU employs CNAs in its student health services, research studies, and for its athletic teams. These are niche, competitive positions.

   • Hiring Trend: Seasonal or project-based. Great for networking and resume building, especially if you're interested in sports medicine.

Getting Licensed in OK

Oklahoma's process is straightforward but requires diligence. You cannot work as a CNA without an active state certification.

Step-by-Step:

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: You must complete a minimum of 75 hours of training (includes classroom and clinical). In Norman, the most common provider is the Norman Regional Health System's CNA Training Program. Other options include Moore Norman Technology Center and some community colleges. Cost: $500 - $1,200 (financial aid often available).
2. Pass the Competency Exam: The exam, administered by Headmaster (a Pearson VUE company), consists of a written (or oral) test and a skills evaluation. Fee: ~$115.
3. Submit Application to Oklahoma Nurse Aide Registry: Once you pass the exam, your name is added to the Oklahoma Nurse Aide Registry. This is managed by the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH). There is a small fee for initial registration.

Timeline & Cost:

• Training: 4-8 weeks (full-time or part-time).
• Exam & Registration: 2-4 weeks after training.
• Total Upfront Cost: $600 - $1,400 (training + exam).
• Crucial Note: Your certification is only valid if you work for pay for at least 8 hours every 24 months. You must renew it every 2 years.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Living near your workplace is key to managing a rotating shift schedule. Here are four neighborhoods that offer a good balance for CNAs.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	1BR Rent Estimate	Why It's Good for CNAs
South Norman (Between I-35 & 24th Ave)	Residential, quiet, newer builds. Easy access to Moore Medical Center.	$750 - $900	Lower traffic, good for families. A short commute to NRHS (Porter) via 24th Ave or I-35.
East Norman (Around Lindsay St & 12th Ave)	Older, established area. Walkable to some amenities.	$650 - $800	Affordable rent. Commute to NRHS (Porter) is 10-15 minutes via Lindsay St. Closer to Cleveland Area Hospital.
Campus Corner / Brookhaven	College-town energy, near OU. More apartments, less rental houses.	$800 - $1,100	Great for younger CNAs. Short commute to NRHS. Social life is built-in. Higher parking costs.
West Norman (West of I-35, near 36th Ave NW)	Suburban, family-oriented.	$700 - $850	Good schools, safe. Commute to NRHS (Porter) is 15-20 minutes via 36th Ave or I-35.

Insider Tip: If you work at NRHS Porter Ave, avoid living north of I-35 if you work night shift. The drive can be desolate and dark. South or East Norman is a better bet for safety and shorter commutes.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 4% job growth means you need to be strategic to advance. Stagnation is a risk in this field if you don't seek additional training.

Specialty Premiums & Advancements:

• Phlebotomy/EKG Certification: Can add $1-$2/hour to your pay. Many local hospitals offer this training after you're hired.
• Medication Aide (CMA): In Oklahoma, CNAs can become Certified Medication Aides after 1,000 hours of work. This allows you to pass medications in long-term care, increasing responsibility and pay (often to $18-$20/hour).
• Teaching/Supervision: With experience, you can move into a "CNA I" to "CNA II" role, or train new hires. This often comes with a pay bump and management experience.
• Bridge to LPN/RN: This is the most common and rewarding path. Many CNAs, especially those working at NRHS or the VA, use tuition reimbursement programs to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Registered Nurses (RNs). The salary jump is substantial (LPN: ~$48,000; RN: ~$70,000+ in Norman).

10-Year Outlook:
The demand will remain steady due to the aging population in Norman and Oklahoma County. However, automation and policy changes in healthcare could affect some aide tasks. The most successful CNAs will be those who specialize (geriatrics, rehab, palliative care) or leverage the role as a stepping stone to higher nursing credentials. Networking within Norman's tight-knit healthcare community is critical.

The Verdict: Is Norman Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Extremely low cost of living, especially rent.	Salaries are below national average and stagnant without specialization.
Stable job market with a dominant healthcare employer (NRHS).	The 4% growth rate is modest; competition for the best jobs is real.
Short, manageable commutes if you choose the right neighborhood.	Oklahoma's weather can be harsh (tornadoes, ice storms, extreme heat).
Strong sense of community within healthcare circles.	Limited public transit; a reliable car is a necessity.
Clear pathways for advancement (CMA, LPN/RN) with employer support.	The city can feel small; limited cultural/diversity compared to larger metros.

Final Recommendation:
Norman is an excellent choice for a CNA who prioritizes financial stability and a manageable lifestyle over high salary. If you are a single earner or part of a dual-income household, your money goes much further here than in OKC, Tulsa, or any coastal city. It's a strategic launchpad: gain 2-3 years of solid hospital experience at NRHS, get your CMA or bridge to LPN, and you'll be in a powerful position. If you're solely chasing the highest possible hourly wage, you might look to Tulsa or Dallas. But for a balanced, grounded career in healthcare with real roots in a community, Norman offers a compelling package.

FAQs

1. Can I get a CNA job in Norman without experience?
Yes. Norman Regional and many nursing homes hire entry-level CNAs who have just completed their state-approved training. Your first 6-12 months will be on-the-job learning.

2. Is the job market for CNAs competitive in Norman?
It's competitive for the best jobs (hospital day shifts, VA positions), but there is consistent turnover in long-term care and home health, creating steady openings. Having a clean background check and good references is paramount.

3. How often do I need to renew my Oklahoma CNA license?
Every 2 years. You must have worked for pay for at least 8 hours in the 24 months prior to your renewal date. Renewal is done through the Oklahoma Nurse Aide Registry and costs a nominal fee.

4. What's the best hospital to work for as a CNA in Norman?
For experience and benefits, Norman Regional Health System (Porter Ave campus) is the top choice. For a federal pay scale and excellent benefits, the VA Medical Center in OKC is a prime target, though the commute is longer.

5. Do CNAs in Norman get health insurance?
At NRHS and the VA, yes, typically with good coverage. At smaller nursing homes or home health agencies, benefits may be limited or require a longer wait period. Always ask about benefits during a job interview.

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) Nurse Aide Registry, Norman Regional Health System career page, Zillow rental data for Norman, OK, and local job postings on Indeed and LinkedIn (as of 2023-2024).