Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Springfield, MO

Of course. Here is a comprehensive career guide for Nursing Assistants considering a move to Springfield, Missouri.

---

The Salary Picture: Where Springfield Stands

If you're looking at the numbers, Springfield is a solid, affordable place to start your career as a Nursing Assistant. The median salary for a CNA in the Springfield metro area is $34,612/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $16.64/hour. This figure sits just below the national average of $35,760/year, a common trade-off in a city with a lower cost of living.

What does this mean in practical terms? Springfield has a healthy healthcare ecosystem with 340 active jobs for CNAs in the metro area and a projected 10-year job growth of 4%. This isn't explosive growth, but it's steady and indicates consistent demand, especially for experienced and reliable caregivers.

To give you a clearer picture of what to expect as you gain experience, here’s a typical salary progression in the Springfield market:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Estimated Hourly Rate
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$28,000 - $32,000	$13.46 - $15.38
Mid-Career (2-5 years)	$32,000 - $36,000	$15.38 - $17.31
Senior (5-10 years)	$36,000 - $40,000	$17.31 - $19.23
Expert/Lead (10+ years)	$40,000+	$19.23+

When you compare Springfield to other major Missouri cities, the picture becomes clearer. St. Louis and Kansas City have higher median salaries, but also significantly higher costs of living. Springfield offers a balance where your paycheck, while nominally lower, may stretch further.

City	Median CNA Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg = 100)
St. Louis, MO	$37,250	~95.5
Kansas City, MO	$36,800	~93.0
Springfield, MO	$34,612	89.3
Columbia, MO	$33,900	~91.2

Salary data based on provided figures and BLS metropolitan area data. Cost of living indices are estimates.

Insider Tip: Don't just look at the top-line salary number. A hospital like Mercy or CoxHealth might start a new CNA at $16.50/hour, but they often offer shift differentials ($1.50-$2.50/hour for nights/weekends) and excellent benefits packages, including tuition reimbursement. This can add significant value beyond the base pay.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about your budget. Springfield's affordability is its biggest draw. With a median salary of $34,612, your monthly take-home pay after taxes (assuming single filer, standard deduction, and MO state tax) will be approximately $2,250 - $2,350.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Springfield is $723/month. This leaves you with a healthy $1,500+ for all other expenses.

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

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$2,884	($34,612 / 12)
Taxes & Deductions (est.)	$550 - $650	Federal, state, FICA
Net Monthly Pay	~$2,300
Rent (1BR Average)	$723	Varies by neighborhood
Utilities (Electric, Water, Gas)	$150
Internet/Phone	$100
Groceries	$250
Car Payment/Insurance	$250	Highly dependent on your vehicle
Health Insurance (if not covered)	$150	Varies by employer
Gas/Transportation	$120
Remaining Funds	$557	For savings, debt, entertainment

Can they afford to buy a home? Yes, absolutely. The median home price in Springfield is around $180,000. With a disciplined budget and a good credit score, a CNA earning the median salary could realistically qualify for a mortgage after 1-2 years of saving for a down payment. This is a significant advantage over cities like St. Louis or Kansas City, where homeownership on a CNA salary is far more challenging.

Where the Jobs Are: Springfield's Major Employers

Springfield's healthcare scene is dominated by two major systems and a robust network of long-term care facilities. Hiring is steady, but competition for the best positions (day shifts, specific units) can be brisk.

1. Mercy Hospital Springfield: Part of the massive Mercy health system, this is one of the region's largest employers. They hire CNAs for their hospital floors, ER, and outpatient clinics. Hiring Trend: They have a strong focus on internal promotion and offer pathways from CNA to LPN/RN through their education assistance programs.
2. CoxHealth: The other major player, CoxHealth is a locally-based system with a deep community presence. They operate multiple hospitals and clinics. Their main hospital is on the north side of the city. Hiring Trend: They are known for their specialized units (like Cox North's Neuroscience and Orthopedics floors), which often seek CNAs with specific experience or interest.
3. Springfield Rehabilitation & Health Care Center: Located just north of downtown, this is a large skilled nursing facility (SNF). It's a common first stop for new CNAs to gain experience in long-term care. Hiring Trend: High turnover means constant openings, but it's an excellent place to build skills quickly.
4. The Violet Clinic at Silverado: Specializing in memory care, this is a prime example of the growing demand for CNAs in geriatrics and dementia care. Located near the Battlefield Mall area, it offers a different pace and focus than a hospital setting.
5. Ozarks Community Hospital: A smaller hospital system serving the region, they often have openings for CNAs willing to work in a close-knit, community-focused environment. It's a great option if you prefer a smaller facility over a large hospital system.
6. Various Assisted Living Facilities: Springfield has dozens of assisted living communities, from large corporate chains to smaller, locally-owned homes. These facilities are consistently hiring for shift work and offer a more residential, less clinical environment. Look for facilities in the southern part of the city, like near James River Freeway.

Insider Tip: Many of the best jobs never get advertised on major job boards. Network with nurses you meet in clinicals or at local health fairs. A personal recommendation can fast-track your application at places like Mercy or CoxHealth.

Getting Licensed in MO

Missouri has a straightforward path to becoming a CNA. The process is managed by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: You must complete a minimum of 75 hours of training, which includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice. In Springfield, you can find these programs at:

   • Ozarks Technical Community College (OTC): They offer a respected CNA program. This is often the most affordable and comprehensive option.
   • Missouri State University (MSU): Also offers a Nurse Aide Certificate program.
   • Private Career Schools: Several local schools offer accelerated programs (often 4-6 weeks). Costs range from $800 to $1,500.

2. Pass the Competency Exam: After completing your training, you must pass the state competency exam, which consists of a written (or oral) portion and a skills demonstration. The exam fee is typically around $100-$125.

3. Get Listed on the Missouri Nurse Aide Registry: Once you pass the exam, your name is added to the state registry. Employers will verify your active status before hiring. There is no separate state license; your registry status is your credential.

Timeline to Get Started: From enrolling in a program to being ready for hire, you can expect it to take about 2-3 months. Accelerated programs can shorten this timeline, but ensure you have the time to dedicate to the required hours of study and clinical practice.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

When choosing where to live, consider your hospital/employer location. Springfield is geographically sprawling, and traffic can be congested during rush hour, especially on Glenstone Avenue and Kansas Expressway.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg. 1BR Rent	Best For...
South Springfield	Family-friendly, safe, with good amenities. Commute to Mercy or CoxHealth is 15-20 mins.	$750 - $850	CNAs working at Mercy (south campus) or those who want a quiet, suburban feel.
University Area / Midtown	Lively, walkable, near MSU and downtown. Older homes and apartments. Commute to CoxHealth is ~10 mins.	$650 - $750	Younger CNAs, students, or those who want to be close to restaurants and nightlife.
East Side	Affordable, mix of older and newer housing. Close to Battlefield Mall and shopping. Commute to most hospitals is 15-25 mins.	$600 - $700	Budget-conscious CNAs looking for value and easy access to shopping and amenities.
North Springfield	More working-class, with industrial pockets. Very close to CoxHealth's main campus. Commute time is a major pro.	$575 - $675	CNAs who want the shortest possible commute to CoxHealth and prioritize convenience over neighborhood amenities.

Insider Tip: If you work night shift, your commute is a non-issue. Living in a more affordable neighborhood like North Springfield or East Side can save you significant money, as you'll be driving against rush-hour traffic.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A CNA license is a fantastic entry point, not a career ceiling. Springfield offers multiple paths for advancement.

• Specialty Premiums: You can increase your earning potential by gaining experience in high-demand areas. While not always a direct pay bump, these specialties make you more valuable and can lead to lead CNA roles.

  • Hospice & Palliative Care: Requires emotional resilience and specialized communication skills.
  • Dementia/Alzheimer's Care: Expertise in managing challenging behaviors is highly sought after in memory care units.
  • Rehabilitation (SNF): Mastering post-op care and helping patients with physical therapy goals.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Lead CNA / Restorative Aide: With a few years of experience, you can move into a lead role, mentoring new CNAs, or a restorative aide position, working directly with therapists.
  2. LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse): This is the most common next step. OTC and MSU offer excellent LPN programs. As an LPN in Springfield, your salary jumps to a median of $48,000 - $52,000/year. Many hospitals offer tuition assistance for this move.
  3. RN (Registered Nurse): The ultimate goal for many. The demand for RNs in Springfield is very high. The salary median is over $70,000/year. Both OTC and MSU have Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs that are affordable and feed directly into local healthcare systems.

• 10-Year Outlook: The 4% job growth reflects the steady demand from an aging population. The real growth will be in specialized care. CNAs who invest in certifications for geriatrics, dialysis, or phlebotomy will be the most competitive. The local university and college systems ensure a constant pipeline of new graduates, so continuous learning is key to staying ahead.

The Verdict: Is Springfield Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Extremely Low Cost of Living: Your salary goes much further here. Homeownership is a real possibility.	Below-National-Average Salary: You'll earn less than your counterparts in larger cities.
Stable Job Market: Two major hospital systems and dozens of care facilities provide consistent demand.	Limited Public Transit: You will need a reliable car to get to work and live comfortably.
Multiple Career Pathways: Clear, accessible paths to LPN and RN degrees with local employers.	Can Feel "Small": If you're used to a major metropolitan vibe, Springfield's pace might feel slow.
Manageable Commute: You can live affordably almost anywhere without a grueling daily drive.	Weather: Summers are hot and humid, and winters can be icy.
Friendly, Community Feel: It's easy to build a network and feel connected here.

Final Recommendation:

Springfield is an excellent choice for CNAs who are budget-conscious, career-oriented, and value a stable, community-focused lifestyle. It's particularly ideal for:

• New CNAs looking to get their start without being crushed by debt or high living costs.
• Career-changers who need an affordable and reliable entry into healthcare.
• CNAs planning to advance to LPN or RN, as the local educational pathways are strong and affordable.

If your primary goal is to maximize your immediate salary above all else, larger coastal cities might offer higher numbers. But if you want to build a sustainable, rewarding career in a place where you can afford a home and a good quality of life, Springfield, MO, is a hidden gem worth serious consideration.

FAQs

1. What is the job market really like for new CNAs in Springfield?
It's strong for those who are reliable and professional. The major hospitals and nursing homes have high turnover, so they are almost always hiring. However, the most desirable day shifts and specialized units often go to CNAs with a bit of experience. Your first job might be a night shift or weekend position, which is a common entry point.

2. Do I need my own car to work as a CNA in Springfield?
Yes, absolutely. Public transportation (Bus) exists but is limited and not practical for shift work, especially early mornings, late nights, or weekends. A reliable car is a non-negotiable requirement for this job in Springfield.

3. How competitive is it to get into the LPN or RN programs at OTC or MSU?
The LPN programs are competitive but have a good number of seats. The main hurdles are a solid GPA (especially in prerequisite science courses) and a clean background check. The RN programs are more competitive. Many CNAs work part-time while taking prerequisites to strengthen their application. It's a marathon, not a sprint.

4. Is there a big difference between working in a hospital versus a long-term care facility in Springfield?
A huge difference. Hospitals (Mercy, CoxHealth) are faster-paced, more clinical, and you'll work with a wider range of patients (post-op, ER, etc.). Long-term care (SNFs) are focused on chronic care and building relationships with residents over time. Both are valuable for experience, but they attract different personalities.

5. What's the best way to find an apartment in Springfield?
Zillow and Apartments.com are good starting points, but for the best deals, look at local property management company websites (like The Management Group or Advantage Property Management). Also, don't underestimate Facebook Marketplace for rentals from individual landlords, especially in the University Area and Midtown. Always visit a neighborhood at different times of the day before signing a lease.