The Complete Career Guide for Nursing Assistants in Sheridan, Wyoming

Sheridan, Wyoming, sits at the foot of the Bighorn Mountains, offering a unique blend of small-town community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. For a Nursing Assistant (CNA), this city presents a specific career landscape—one defined by a tight-knit healthcare network, a lower cost of living, and a job market that operates on personal connections as much as formal applications. This guide cuts through the promotional material to give you a data-driven, local look at what it’s really like to build a career as a CNA in Sheridan.

The Salary Picture: Where Sheridan Stands

Let’s start with the numbers that matter most to your bottom line. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local market data, the financial outlook for CNAs in Sheridan is modest but stable. The median salary for a CNA in Sheridan is $35,438 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.04. This places you slightly below the national average of $35,760/year, a common adjustment for the lower cost of living in Wyoming.

When you look at the broader Wyoming landscape, Sheridan’s CNA salaries are competitive within the state but aren’t the highest. Cheyenne and Casper, as larger population centers with more major hospitals and a higher cost of living, often see salaries that edge closer to the $40,000 mark. However, the trade-off in Sheridan is a more manageable pace and a deep sense of community integration.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Salary progression for CNAs in this region is typically tied to tenure at a single employer rather than dramatic jumps between jobs. Loyalty is rewarded with incremental raises.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Sheridan, WY)	Key Factors Influencing Pay
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$32,000 - $34,500	Starting rate, often with shift differentials for nights/weekends.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$35,438 - $38,000	Reaches median salary, may include charge CNA responsibilities.
Senior/Expert (8+ years)	$38,500 - $42,000+	Specialized certifications, training roles, union scale (if applicable).

Comparison to Other Wyoming Cities

While Sheridan’s salary is below the national average, it’s important to contextualize it within Wyoming’s economic landscape. The following table compares key metrics for major Wyoming cities.

City	Median CNA Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	1BR Avg Rent
Sheridan	$35,438	97.0	$876
Cheyenne	~$38,500	99.5	$1,050
Casper	~$37,800	98.2	$975
Laramie	~$36,200	95.8	$895

The data shows a clear pattern: higher salaries in Cheyenne and Casper are offset by a higher cost of living, particularly in housing. Sheridan offers a balance, where the median salary of $35,438 paired with an average 1BR rent of $876/month provides a relatively stable financial footing.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Living on a $35,438 salary in Sheridan is achievable, but it requires careful budgeting. Let’s break down a realistic monthly budget for a single CNA.

Assuming a take-home pay (after federal/state taxes, FICA, and potential health insurance premiums) of roughly 75% of gross income, your monthly take-home is approximately $2,215.

Monthly Budget Breakdown:

• Rent (Average 1BR): $876
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet): $150-$200
• Groceries: $300-$350
• Car Payment/Insurance/Fuel: $300-$400 (Sheridan is car-dependent)
• Healthcare/Personal Care: $100
• Miscellaneous/Discretionary: $200
• Total: ~$1,926 - $2,126

This leaves a tight margin of $89 - $289 per month for savings, emergencies, or entertainment. This budget works, but it’s lean. It doesn’t account for significant student loan payments or supporting a family on a single income.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

On this salary, purchasing a home in Sheridan is challenging but not impossible. The median home price in Sheridan is approximately $325,000. A 20% down payment is $65,000, which is a significant hurdle. However, with a median salary of $35,438, a CNA might qualify for an FHA loan with a 3.5% down payment ($11,375). The monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would likely exceed $1,600, which is nearly double the average rent. For a single CNA, this would consume over 70% of take-home pay, making it financially impractical without a dual income. Homeownership is a long-term goal that would likely require years of saving, a partner’s income, or a move into a higher-paying specialty.

Where the Jobs Are: Sheridan's Major Employers

Sheridan’s healthcare ecosystem is concentrated, with a few major players dominating the market. The Jobs in Metro: 38 figure reflects a small, stable market where networking is key. Here are the primary employers for CNAs:

1. Sheridan Memorial Hospital: The cornerstone of healthcare in the region. As the only hospital in the county, it’s the largest employer of CNAs. They offer positions in Med/Surg, the ER, and swing beds (a specialty in rural healthcare). Hiring trends are steady; they groom CNAs from local training programs. Insider Tip: Getting your foot in the door here, even on night shift, is the most strategic career move in Sheridan.
2. Amie Holt Care Center: A skilled nursing facility (SNF) with a long-standing reputation. It’s a major employer for CNAs seeking geriatric care experience. Turnover is low, so jobs open up sporadically. They value CNAs with strong patient rapport and consistency.
3. The Soldier’s Home & Veterans Home of Wyoming: Located just outside Sheridan in Ranchester, this state-run facility offers stable employment with state benefits. It’s a unique setting with a focus on veteran care. Hiring is often tied to state civil service exams and processes.
4. Mountain View Nursing & Rehabilitation Center: Another key SNF in the area, providing post-acute and long-term care. They often need CNAs for various shifts and offer experience with a diverse patient population.
5. Local Assisted Living Facilities (e.g., The Point, Westview Health Care Center): Several smaller facilities cater to the aging population. These can be excellent entry points for new CNAs, offering a slightly less acute care environment than a hospital.
6. Home Health Agencies: Companies like Big Horn County Hospital District or private agencies serve patients in their homes. This path offers more autonomy but requires reliable transportation and flexibility. It’s a growing segment due to the preference for aging-in-place.

Hiring Trend: The market is stable, not booming. The 10-year job growth of 4% is modest, reflecting Sheridan’s aging but stable population. New jobs primarily come from replacing retirees, not expanding facilities. This makes persistent application and in-person visits crucial.

Getting Licensed in WY

Wyoming’s licensure process is straightforward but requires attention to detail. The Wyoming State Board of Nursing is the governing body.

Steps & Costs:

1. Complete an Approved Training Program: You must graduate from a state-approved CNA program. In Sheridan, the primary provider is Sheridan College, which offers a comprehensive CNA course. The program typically takes 4-6 weeks (full-time) and costs between $800 - $1,200, including tuition, books, and supplies. Some employers, like Sheridan Memorial Hospital, may offer tuition reimbursement if you commit to working for them post-certification.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After training, you must pass the Wyoming Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation, which includes a written/oral exam and a skills demonstration. The exam fee is approximately $125.
3. Submit Application to the State Board: Once you pass the exam, you apply for your Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) certification through the Wyoming Board of Nursing. The application fee is nominal, around $50.
4. Background Check: A criminal background check is required, costing about $50.

Timeline: From the first day of class to holding your official CNA certificate in hand, expect a 2-3 month process. This includes training, exam scheduling (which can have a wait time), and state processing.

Insider Tip: If you are already a CNA from another state, Wyoming has reciprocity. You can apply for certification by endorsement. You must provide proof of current certification and completion of a state-approved program. The process is faster but still requires the background check and application fees.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Sheridan is compact, and commute times are minimal, typically under 15 minutes. Your choice of neighborhood will hinge more on lifestyle and budget than on proximity to work.

1. Downtown Historic District: Living here means walkability to coffee shops, restaurants, and the historic WYO Theater. It’s charming but has older housing stock. Rent for a 1BR or studio can range from $800 - $1,100. Ideal for a CNA who wants a vibrant social scene without a long commute.
2. The North Side (Near Sheridan Memorial Hospital): This is the most practical choice for many healthcare workers. It’s a mix of older homes and newer apartments, with easy access to the hospital (often a 5-10 minute drive). Rent is close to the city average, around $850 - $950 for a 1BR.
3. South Side / Highland Addition: A quiet, residential area with a mix of single-family homes and apartment complexes. It’s slightly farther from downtown but offers more space for the money. Rent is typically more affordable, averaging $750 - $900 for a 1BR. A good option for those seeking a quieter, family-friendly environment.
4. East Side / College District: Centered around Sheridan College, this area has a younger, academic vibe. Housing includes student rentals and some affordable apartments. The commute to the hospital is still very short. 1BR rents can be found in the $800 - $950 range. Good for CNAs who are also students or recent graduates.
5. The Quaint Neighborhoods (e.g., Highland Park): Established neighborhoods with character and mature trees. They offer a classic small-town feel. Rents are similar to the North Side, but you get more architectural charm. Commute is still negligible.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Sheridan’s CNA career path is less about rapid vertical climbs and more about deepening expertise and gaining additional certifications. The 10-year outlook is stable, with growth tied to specialization.

• Specialty Premiums: While base pay is standardized, adding certifications can lead to shift differentials or preferential scheduling. The most valuable in this market are:
  • CPR/BLS Instructor: Training others adds value to your role.
  • Restorative Nursing Assistant (RNA): Focused on rehabilitation, this can open doors in SNFs and home health.
  • Phlebotomy or EKG Technician: Adding these lab skills makes you more versatile in a hospital setting.
• Advancement Paths: The most common progression is:
  • CNA → Charge CNA (Supervisory role in a unit/facility): Requires experience and leadership skills.
  • CNA → Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): This is the most significant step. Sheridan College offers an LPN program. It requires 1-2 years of school and a significant pay increase (LPNs in WY often earn $45,000 - $55,000+). This is the most common and financially impactful advancement.
  • CNA → Medical Assistant or Administrative Roles: Some CNAs transition to clinic settings or office management, especially if they tire of direct patient care.
• 10-Year Outlook: With a 4% job growth rate, the market will see steady replacement demand. The key to long-term success in Sheridan is building a sterling reputation. In a small community, your work ethic and attitude are your biggest assets. CNAs who are reliable, compassionate, and well-liked by management and patients will always find opportunities, even in a slow-growth market.

The Verdict: Is Sheridan Right for You?

Making the move to Sheridan for a CNA career is a lifestyle choice as much as a professional one.

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $35,438 salary goes further here, especially with $876 rent.	Low Salary Ceiling: Pay is below national average; advancement requires further education (LPN).
Strong Community: You’ll know your colleagues and patients on a personal level.	Limited Job Market: Only 38 jobs in the metro area; competition for openings can be fierce.
Unbeatable Access to Nature: The Bighorn Mountains are your backyard for hiking, fishing, and skiing.	Isolation & Weather: Sheridan is remote; winters are long, cold, and snowy.
Stable Employment: The major employers are established and offer consistent work.	Limited Specialty Variety: You won’t find the same range of specialties as in a large metro area.
Manageable Pace: Lower patient ratios and less institutional chaos than big-city hospitals.	Reliance on a Car: Public transit is minimal; you need a reliable vehicle.

Final Recommendation: Sheridan is an excellent fit for a CNA who prioritizes quality of life over maximizing income. It’s ideal for someone who loves the outdoors, values tight-knit community ties, and is content with a stable, steady career. It’s less suitable for a CNA seeking rapid career advancement without further education, or for those who crave the anonymity and amenities of a large city. If you’re looking for a place to build a life, not just a career, Sheridan deserves serious consideration.

FAQs

Q: Is it hard to find a CNA job in Sheridan?
A: It’s competitive but not impossible. The market is small (38 jobs), so persistence is key. Tailor your application to each facility, follow up with a phone call or in-person visit, and leverage any local connections. Starting with a per-diem or weekend-only position can be a great foot in the door.

Q: Do I need a car to work as a CNA in Sheridan?
A: Yes, absolutely. Public transportation is limited, and shifts often start and end at hours when buses aren’t running. You’ll need a reliable vehicle to get to and from work, as well as for any home health or private duty roles.

Q: What’s the cost of living really like?
A: The Cost of Living Index of 97.0 (US avg=100) is accurate. While housing and utilities are reasonable, other costs like groceries, gasoline, and healthcare can be slightly higher than the national average due to transportation costs to the region. Your budget will stretch further than in Denver or Seattle, but not as far as the index might suggest.

Q: Can I work in multiple facilities?
A: It’s common for CNAs to work at a hospital and a SNF simultaneously, especially if one offers part-time hours. However, be mindful of scheduling conflicts and employer policies. Some employers may require a minimum commitment of hours or prohibit working for direct competitors.

Q: How does the licensing reciprocity work if I’m already a CNA?
A: Wyoming has reciprocity with most states. You’ll need to submit an application for certification by endorsement to the Wyoming Board of Nursing, provide proof of your current, active certification from your home state, and complete a background check. There is no re-testing required if your certification is in good standing. The process typically takes 4-6 weeks.