Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Pawtucket, RI

A Career Guide for Nursing Assistants in Pawtucket, RI

As someone who’s watched the tides change in this city—the mills converted to lofts, the Blackstone River’s path still carving through the heart of it—let’s talk about what it means to build a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) here. Pawtucket isn't just the "Birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution"; it's a working-class city where healthcare is a major employer. This guide is a no-fluff look at the numbers, the neighborhoods, and the reality of the job on the ground.

The Salary Picture: Where Pawtucket Stands

Let’s cut right to it. The median salary for a Nursing Assistant in Pawtucket is $35,856/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.24/hour. This is virtually identical to the national average of $35,760/year, so you’re not losing ground by being here, but you’re not gaining a cost-of-living advantage either. The metro area has about 150 jobs for our role, and the 10-year job growth is projected at a modest 4%. This isn't a boom town for healthcare; it's a steady one.

Experience, as always, is the great divider. The following table breaks down the local salary progression. These are estimates based on BLS data and local job postings, adjusted for Pawtucket's market.

| Experience Level | Annual Salary (Est.) | Hourly Rate (Est.) | Key Notes for Pawtucket |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $31,500 - $33,000 | $15.15 - $15.87 | Often starts at skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) or home health. Hospitals may start slightly higher but require more flexibility. |
| Mid-Career (3-7 years) | $35,856 (Median) | $17.24 | You're at the median. This is the plateau for many if they don't specialize. COL adjustments are minimal at this stage. |
| Senior/Expert (8+ years) | $39,000 - $42,000 | $18.75 - $20.20 | Often requires a specialty (geriatrics, rehab), charge CNA roles, or moving to a larger health system like Lifespan or Care New England. |

Compared to Other RI Cities:
Pawtucket’s salary is slightly below Providence’s median ($37,200) and significantly below Newport’s ($39,500). However, Pawtucket’s rent is far lower than both. Providence is 15% more expensive for housing, and Newport is a different financial universe. In terms of value, Pawtucket offers a more balanced equation for a CNA than the state’s capital or coastal tourism hubs.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $35,856 is the headline, but the real question is: what’s left after Rhode Island’s 3.75% state income tax, federal taxes, and the rent? The average 1BR rent in Pawtucket is $1,362/month, and the Cost of Living Index is 100.9 (slightly above the US average of 100).

Let’s run the numbers for a single CNA earning the median.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Estimated):

• Gross Monthly Income: $2,988
• Net Monthly Income (after taxes): ~$2,400 (This is a rough estimate; actual take-home depends on deductions for health insurance, etc.)
• Rent (1BR Average): -$1,362
• Remaining for Utilities, Food, Transport, Debt, Savings: $1,038

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
Let’s be direct: on a single CNA salary of $35,856, buying a home in Pawtucket is a significant stretch. A median-priced home in Pawtucket is around $320,000. Even with a 3.5% down payment ($11,200), the mortgage, taxes, and insurance would likely exceed $2,000/month—over 80% of your net income. This is not financially advisable. Homeownership for a single CNA in this market is a long-term goal that typically requires dual incomes or significant career advancement to a salary above $50,000.

Where the Jobs Are: Pawtucket's Major Employers

Pawtucket’s healthcare landscape is a mix of large systems and community-focused facilities. Here’s who’s hiring.

1. Landmark Medical Center (Woonsocket, but a major employer for Pawtucket residents): This is a full-service hospital in the northern part of the metro. They often hire CNAs for their Med/Surg and ER departments. They’re part of the Care New England system, which can mean better benefits and pathways to other hospitals in the system. Insider Tip: They have a reputation for fast-paced, acute care environments. Great for learning, but can be demanding.

2. Darlington Assisted Living & The Cedars (Managed by The Elms): Located in the Darlington neighborhood, this is a classic Pawtucket employer. They serve an aging population and often have openings for CNAs in assisted living and memory care. The vibe here is more community-based than a hospital. Hiring Trend: Consistent demand for evening and weekend shifts.

3. Home Health Agencies (e.g., Visiting Nurse Home & Hospice, Home Instead): The home health sector is growing as the population ages. These jobs offer more independence and a different patient interaction. Pay can be slightly higher ($18-$20/hr) to compensate for travel. Insider Tip: You need a reliable car and good time management. Reimbursement for mileage is standard but check the rate.

4. Rehabilitation Facilities (e.g., Pawtucket-based skilled nursing facilities): These are the backbone of CNA employment. They focus on post-surgical and long-term care. The work is physically demanding but offers consistent hours. Facilities like Mount St. Rita Health Centre (in nearby Cumberland) are also major draws for Pawtucket residents.

5. Butler Hospital (Providence, but a major commuter destination): While not in Pawtucket, it’s a top employer for mental health CNAs. It’s a 15-20 minute commute via I-95. They have specialized units and often pay a premium ($18-$19/hr starting) for psychiatric nursing assistants.

6. The Pawtucket Center (Genesis Healthcare): A skilled nursing and rehab facility right in the city. It’s one of the largest and most consistent employers for CNAs. They offer full-time, part-time, and per-diem options. Hiring Trend: High turnover means they are almost always hiring, but ask about staff-to-patient ratios during the interview.

Getting Licensed in RI

Rhode Island requires a state-approved training program and passing the competency exam.

• Requirements: You must complete a state-approved CNA training program (minimum 100 hours, covering 50 classroom/50 clinical). You then apply to take the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, which includes a written/oral test and a skills evaluation.
• Costs: Tuition for training programs in the Pawtucket/Providence area ranges from $800 to $1,500. The exam fee is typically around $125. Some employers, like nursing homes, may offer tuition reimbursement if you commit to working for them for a set period (e.g., 6-12 months).
• Timeline: From enrolling in a program to being on the Rhode Island Nurse Aide Registry, expect 3 to 5 months. Programs run frequently at community colleges (like CCRI) and private schools. Check the RI Department of Health’s website for the most current list of approved providers.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Where you live affects your commute, budget, and lifestyle. Here are 4-5 neighborhoods to consider.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg. 1BR Rent	Best For...
Downtown Pawtucket	Walkable, artsy, near the Blackstone River. 5-10 min drive to most employers. Close to Providence for entertainment.	$1,400	Young professionals who want a walkable environment and easy access to the city.
Darlington	Residential, quiet, family-oriented. Close to Landmark Medical Center and Darlington Assisted Living. Mostly single-family homes.	$1,250	CNAs working at northern employers who value a quiet, suburban feel within the city.
Woodlawn	A mix of residential and light commercial. Good access to I-95 and Route 1 for commuting to Providence or other cities.	$1,300	Those who commute to Providence or need easy highway access. More apartment options.
Oak Hill	Historic, with larger, older homes. More of a driving neighborhood, but central to everything in Pawtucket and nearby Seekonk, MA.	$1,350	CNAs looking for a bit more space and a traditional neighborhood feel.

Insider Tip: Avoid looking for apartments right on the main thoroughfares (like Newport Ave or Main St) if you’re a light sleeper. The side streets in Darlington or Oak Hill offer quieter living for a similar price.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 4% job growth is slow, but advancement is possible if you’re strategic.

• Specialty Premiums: CNAs with geriatric or rehab experience can often negotiate a slightly higher wage. Being certified in CPR and first aid is standard, but additional certs in phlebotomy or EKG tech (through programs at CCRI) can open doors to hospital-based roles that pay more.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Medication Aide: With additional training, you can pass medications in some settings, raising your pay grade.
  2. Charge CNA/Unit Secretary: Taking on leadership duties in a nursing home unit.
  3. Bridge to LPN/RN: This is the most common path. Many local hospitals and nursing homes have tuition assistance programs for LPN or RN school. With the nursing shortage, this is a highly viable and rewarding path.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 4% growth means competition for the best jobs will remain. The key will be specialization and pursuing further education. The demand for geriatric care will only increase with Rhode Island’s aging population.

The Verdict: Is Pawtucket Right for You?

Pawtucket is a pragmatic choice for a CNA. It’s not a career launchpad like Boston, but it offers stability, a reasonable cost of living, and a clear path to a solid, middle-class life if you manage your finances and plan for advancement.

Pros	Cons
Affordable Rent: $1,362 is manageable on a $17.24/hr wage.	Stagnant Growth: 4% job growth means you have to be proactive about finding the best positions.
Steady Demand: 150+ jobs in the metro. You will find work.	Median Salary is Flat: You’ll need to specialize or move into management to significantly increase your income.
Proximity to Providence: Access to a larger job market and city amenities without the high cost.	Older Housing Stock: Many apartments are in older mill buildings or homes, which can mean quirks and drafts.
Community Feel: It’s a smaller city where you can get to know your patients and colleagues.	Weather: New England winters are real. Commutes can be challenging, and you’ll need a reliable car.

Final Recommendation: If you’re a newly certified CNA looking for a place to start your career with manageable living costs and a straightforward path to experience, Pawtucket is a solid choice. If you’re already an experienced CNA seeking a high salary or rapid career advancement, you might start here but should plan to leverage the proximity to Providence or specialize quickly.

FAQs

Q: Is it easy to find a CNA job in Pawtucket?
A: Yes, with a caveat. There are always openings, especially in skilled nursing facilities. The "easy" part is getting a job; the "hard" part is finding a position with good staffing ratios and a supportive environment. Interview the employer as much as they interview you.

Q: How does the cost of living in Pawtucket compare to nearby Massachusetts?
A: Significantly lower. Just over the border in Seekonk or Attleboro, MA, rents can be 10-15% higher, and sales tax is 6.25% vs. RI’s 7%. However, MA has higher state income tax (5% flat). For a CNA salary, Pawtucket generally offers better overall affordability.

Q: What’s the typical schedule for a CNA in this area?
A: Most full-time roles are 8 or 12-hour shifts, often with rotating weekends. Nursing homes and hospitals need 24/7 coverage, so flexibility is key. Home health roles are typically daytime, Monday-Friday.

Q: Do I need my own car?
A: For hospital and facility jobs, yes, as public transit (RIPTA) can be unreliable for shift work. For home health, it’s non-negotiable.

Q: What’s the best way to network for CNA jobs in Pawtucket?
A: Join local Facebook groups like "Rhode Island Healthcare Jobs" or "Pawtucket Community Board." Many smaller facilities post jobs there first. Also, contact the nursing homes directly—HR departments often have open positions not listed on major job sites.