Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Pasco, WA

The Salary Picture: Where Pasco Stands

If you're looking at Pasco for a CNA career, the first thing to check is the paycheck. The data paints a clear, if modest, picture. The median salary for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in the Kennewick-Pasco metro area is $35,652/year. That translates to an hourly rate of $17.14/hour. This is just a hair below the national average for CNAs, which sits at $35,760/year. It’s a tight market, but the local cost of living helps balance it out.

The job market itself is stable but not booming. There are approximately 162 CNA positions in the metro area at any given time. Over the next decade, the 10-year job growth projection is 4%. This indicates steady demand rather than explosive growth, typical for a stable healthcare market in a mid-sized city. You won't see the frantic hiring frenzies of a tech hub, but you'll find consistent opportunities in a community that relies heavily on its healthcare infrastructure.

To break it down further, experience is the primary driver of salary in this field. Here’s how pay typically scales:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Factors
Entry-Level	$32,000 - $34,500	New certification, first job. Often starts at the lower end of the scale.
Mid-Level (2-5 yrs)	$35,652 - $38,000	This is the median range. Solid experience at a local facility.
Senior (5-10 yrs)	$38,500 - $42,000	Specializations, shift differentials, or lead CNA roles.
Expert (10+ yrs)	$42,500+	Teaching roles, management tracks, or specialized clinical units.

Compared to other Washington cities, Pasco is on the lower end. A CNA in Seattle or Bellevue can command a salary $10,000-$15,000 higher, but their rent and overall cost of living will be astronomically higher. Spokane's median is closer to $37,000, while Yakima sits near $34,500. Pasco offers a middle ground of decent pay within a very affordable local economy.

Insider Tip: The $17.14/hour is a median. You can push this higher by targeting night or weekend shifts, which almost always carry a differential of $1-$3 more per hour. Specialty units like ICU or surgical floors at larger hospitals also tend to pay at the higher end of the local scale.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s be real: a $35,652 salary doesn’t sound like much until you factor in the cost of living in Pasco. With a median 1BR rent of $1,633/month and a cost of living index of 99.0 (just 1% below the national average), the math is manageable but requires budgeting.

Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown for a single CNA earning the median salary:

Category	Monthly Cost	Notes
Gross Pay	$2,971	$35,652 / 12 months
Taxes (Est. ~20%)	-$594	Federal, state, FICA (this can vary)
Net Pay	$2,377	Your take-home
Rent (1BR)	-$1,633	Median for Pasco
Utilities	-$150	Electricity, gas, water, internet
Groceries	-$300	For one person
Car Payment/Insurance	-$300	Assumes a modest used car
Healthcare	-$100	Post-employer contribution
Remaining	-$106	For savings, debt, or discretionary

This budget is tight. You will have about $106 left over each month after essentials. This means home ownership on this single income is not feasible in the near term. The median home price in Pasco is roughly $320,000. A monthly mortgage payment would be nearly double your rent. The path to buying a home here for a single-income CNA would require a significant down payment (likely from a partner, family, or years of aggressive saving) or moving up into a higher-paying role. Renting, as shown, is the realistic option.

Insider Tip: Many local CNAs live in shared housing (roommates) or in slightly older apartment complexes just outside the immediate downtown core to save $200-$300 on rent. This can free up that crucial monthly buffer.

Where the Jobs Are: Pasco's Major Employers

Pasco’s healthcare landscape is dominated by a few key players. Knowing who they are and where they are located is crucial for your job search. The hubs are Trios Health and Kadlec Regional Medical Center (in neighboring Richland), but Pasco itself has a strong network of long-term care and specialty clinics.

1. Trios Health (Pasco Campus): The primary hospital in Pasco proper, located off Rd 48. It’s a Level III Trauma Center and the largest single employer in the city. They have a constant need for CNAs in their Med-Surg, ER, and Orthopedic units. Hiring is year-round, but they often have seasonal surges in flu season. Insider tip: Trios has a strong internal tuition reimbursement program for employees looking to advance to LPN or RN.

2. Life Care Center of Pasco: A major long-term care and rehabilitation facility located off West Clearwater Ave. With the aging population in the Tri-Cities, LTC facilities are a bedrock of CNA employment. Shifts are predictable (lots of 12-hour days) and experience is highly valued here. Insider tip: LTC facilities often have the most consistent weekend and holiday shifts, which can boost your hourly pay significantly.

3. Avalon Care Center - Pasco: Another large skilled nursing facility on Road 68. Similar to Life Care, it offers steady work in a long-term care setting. They frequently hire new CNAs and provide on-the-job training for those new to geriatric care.

4. Kadlec Regional Medical Center (Richland): While not in Pasco, Kadlec is the largest healthcare employer in the entire Tri-Cities metro and is a major destination for Pasco-based CNAs. Commuting the 10-15 minutes from central Pasco to Richland is extremely common. Kadlec offers more specialty units (like labor & delivery, NICU) and typically pays at the higher end of the local scale. Insider tip: Many CNAs start at a LTC facility in Pasco to gain experience before transferring to Kadlec for higher pay and specialty experience.

5. Local Medical Clinics & Specialty Centers: Don't overlook smaller employers. Clinics like CHI Franciscan and Providence have locations throughout the Tri-Cities, including Pasco. They need CNAs for patient intake, vitals, and basic assistance. These are often regular business-hour jobs, a nice change from hospital or LTC shifts.

6. Home Health Agencies: Companies like ComForCare and Right at Home serve Pasco's growing senior population. This offers more flexible scheduling but often without benefits. It’s a good option for supplemental income or for those who prefer one-on-one patient care.

Getting Licensed in WA

Washington State has a clear but specific pathway to becoming a CNA. The process is managed by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) and the Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission (NCQAC).

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: You must complete a minimum 85-hour course that includes both classroom and clinical hours. Several local providers offer this:

   • CBC (Columbia Basin College): Located in Pasco, they have a well-regarded CNA program. Tuition is approximately $1,200-$1,500, but financial aid and Workforce Development grants are often available.
   • Trios Health & Kadlec: Both hospitals sometimes offer in-house training programs if you're hired as a "trainee," with a commitment to work for them for a year post-certification.
   • Private Career Schools: Look for licensed schools in the Tri-Cities area. Always verify their accreditation on the DOH website.

2. Pass the Competency Exam: After your course, you must pass a state exam consisting of a written (or oral) test and a skills demonstration. The exam fee is around $200-$250.

3. Apply for State Certification: Once you pass, you apply to the NCQAC for your CNA license. There's a modest fee, and your name is added to the state registry.

Timeline to Get Started: From zero to certified, expect a 3 to 6-month timeline. A full-time program at CBC, for example, can be completed in about one quarter. If you're working full-time, you'll need to find an evening/weekend program, which may take longer. The total upfront investment (tuition + exam fees) can be $1,500-$2,000, so research financial assistance options early.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Where you live in Pasco directly impacts your commute, budget, and lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of popular areas for healthcare workers.

• Central Pasco (Downtown/ Rd 48 Corridor):

  • Vibe: The heart of the city, close to Trios Health, restaurants, and the Columbia River. Walkable in parts, but the core is car-dependent.
  • Commute: Under 10 minutes to most local employers.
  • Rent Estimate: $1,500 - $1,800 for a 1BR.
  • Best For: Those who want a short commute and urban convenience.

• Sunnyside/South Pasco:

  • Vibe: More residential with established neighborhoods, single-family homes, and local parks. Quieter than downtown.
  • Commute: 10-15 minutes to major employers.
  • Rent Estimate: $1,400 - $1,650 for a 1BR.
  • Best For: CNAs seeking a quieter, family-friendly environment.

• West Pasco (Near Hwy 395):

  • Vibe: Rapidly growing area with new apartment complexes and shopping centers. Modern feel, a bit more spread out.
  • Commute: 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Easy access to Kadlec in Richland.
  • Rent Estimate: $1,600 - $1,900 for a 1BR (newer builds).
  • Best For: Those who prefer newer amenities and don't mind a slightly longer commute for better access to Richland.

• East Pasco (Near A Street/ Rd 68):

  • Vibe: Mix of older homes and newer subdivisions. Close to the airport and major retail corridors.
  • Commute: 5-15 minutes to most Pasco employers.
  • Rent Estimate: $1,350 - $1,600 for a 1BR.
  • Best For: Budget-conscious CNAs who want good value and reasonable access.

• Finley (Unincorporated, SE of Pasco):

  • Vibe: A small, unincorporated community with a rural feel but only about a 15-minute drive to central Pasco.
  • Commute: 15-20 minutes to major employers.
  • Rent Estimate: $1,200 - $1,500 for a 1BR (if you can find one; more single-family rentals).
  • Best For: Those who want more space, a rural setting, and lower costs, accepting a longer commute.

The Long Game: Career Growth

While the starting pay is modest, the CNA role in Pasco is a proven launchpad for a long-term healthcare career. The 4% job growth indicates stability, but your individual growth depends on specialization and further education.

• Specialty Premiums: CNAs with certifications in phlebotomy, EKG, or wound care can command higher pay (often $1-$2/hour more). These are offered through some employers or local community colleges.
• Advancement Paths: The most common and lucrative path is advancing to a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN). CBC and local hospital programs offer bridge tracks. An RN in the Tri-Cities can earn $65,000-$85,000+, a significant jump.
• Management: With experience, you can become a CNA Lead or Unit Secretary, which offers a slight pay bump and more responsibility.
• 10-Year Outlook: The basic CNA role will remain in demand due to the aging population. However, the 4% growth is slower than other healthcare roles. To increase your salary significantly over a decade, you must specialize or advance your license. The local market rewards longevity and additional credentials.

The Verdict: Is Pasco Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Very Affordable Cost of Living: Your $17.14/hour goes much further here than in Seattle or Bellevue.	Low Starting Pay: The median $35,652 is below national and state averages for healthcare roles.
Stable Job Market: With major employers like Trios and Kadlec nearby, jobs are consistent.	Limited High-End Specialties: Fewer niche, high-paying CNA roles compared to a major metro.
Manageable Commutes: You can live affordably and be at work in under 20 minutes.	Budget is Tight: Homeownership on a single income is very difficult.
Gateway to Advancement: A great place to start, get experience, and then advance to LPN/RN.	Limited Nightlife/Urban Culture: It's a smaller, family-oriented city with a quieter pace.
Growing Healthcare Hub: Part of the larger Tri-Cities region, which is a medical center for Eastern WA.	Job Growth is Modest: Don't expect explosive opportunities; it's a steady market.

Final Recommendation: Pasco is an excellent choice for a new CNA or one seeking a stable, affordable lifestyle. It’s ideal if you plan to use the role as a stepping stone to further education. If you are a single-income household aiming to buy a home quickly, or if you crave the energy and higher pay of a major metropolis, you may find it limiting. For practical, career-minded individuals, Pasco offers a solid foundation.

FAQs

Q: How competitive is the job market for new CNAs in Pasco?
A: It's moderately competitive. New graduates will find jobs, but you may need to apply to several places. Starting at a long-term care facility is often the easiest entry point. Having a clean background check and good references from your clinical rotations is critical.

Q: Is it worth commuting from Pasco to Kadlec in Richland for a higher-paying job?
A: Absolutely. Many CNAs do this. The commute is short (10-15 minutes via I-182), and Kadlec often pays $1-$3 more per hour than local Pasco facilities. The higher pay can outweigh the slightly longer drive.

Q: What’s the best way to find affordable housing as a single CNA?
A: Look for older apartment complexes in East Pasco or shared rentals. Websites like Facebook Marketplace and local classifieds often have better deals than major rental sites. Be prepared for a security deposit and first month's rent upfront.

Q: Do most employers in Pasco offer benefits to full-time CNAs?
A: Yes, major employers like Trios, Kadlec, and large LTC facilities typically offer benefits (health insurance, retirement) to full-time employees. However, part-time or agency work often comes without benefits, so read the offer letter carefully.

Q: How does the cost of living index of 99.0 affect my budget?
A: It means Pasco is virtually average for the U.S. in cost. Your biggest expense will be rent (which is slightly above the national average for a 1BR), but other costs like groceries and utilities are standard. It makes the $35,652 salary more sustainable than it would be in a high-cost city.