Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Summerville, SC

The Salary Picture: Where Summerville Stands

As a local who's watched this market for years, the first thing to understand is that Summerville isn't a high-wage healthcare hub, but it's stable. The median salary for a CNA in Summerville is $35,824/year, which breaks down to $17.22/hour. That's barely above the national average of $35,760/year, meaning you're not getting a regional premium, but you're also not falling behind.

Let's break it down by experience, using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local job postings:

| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate | Notes for Summerville |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Entry-Level (0-2 yrs) | $31,000 - $33,500 | $14.90 - $16.10 | Most hospital and nursing home openings start here. |
| Mid-Level (3-6 yrs) | $35,824 (Median) | $17.22 | You'll need this experience to secure the median wage. |
| Senior-Level (7-10 yrs) | $39,000 - $42,000 | $18.75 - $20.19 | Often seen in specialty units or with shift differentials. |
| Expert/Lead CNA (10+ yrs) | $43,000+ | $20.67+ | Requires certs (like IV) or a lead role; union hospitals pay top. |

How does this compare to other SC cities? It's middle-of-the-pack. Charleston, with its larger hospital systems (MUSC, Roper), offers a 10-15% premium but comes with a much higher cost of living. Columbia (the state capital) is similar to Summerville. Greenville tends to pay a bit more due to a tighter labor market. Summerville is a commuter town for Charleston, and many CNAs work in Charleston but live here for the affordability. The 10-year job growth projection is 4%, which is slightly below the national average for CNAs. This tells you the market is stable but not booming—plan to find a job quickly, but don't expect a flood of new openings.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get brutally honest about what $35,824/year means in Summerville. First, the math on take-home pay. After federal taxes, FICA, and SC state taxes (a flat 7%), your monthly take-home is approximately $2,450. Now, subtract housing. The average 1BR rent is $1,106/month. That leaves you with $1,344/month for all other expenses.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Estimated):

• Take-Home Pay: $2,450
• Rent (1BR Avg): -$1,106
• Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet): -$180
• Car Payment/Insurance (Essential in Summerville): -$350
• Groceries: -$300
• Health Insurance (if not employer-provided): -$200
• Remaining: $314

This is a tight budget. It doesn't include savings, debt payments, or entertainment. Can you afford to buy a home? It's challenging but possible if you have dual income. The median home price in Summerville is around $350,000. With a $35,824 salary, you'd likely need an FHA loan (3.5% down) and a strong co-borrower. Your monthly mortgage payment would likely exceed $1,800, which is unsustainable on a single CNA salary. The Cost of Living Index of 100.6 (US avg = 100) confirms it's slightly above average, primarily due to housing costs. Renting is the realistic short-term strategy for most single-income CNAs.

Where the Jobs Are: Summerville's Major Employers

Summerville's healthcare ecosystem is defined by its proximity to Charleston. The major employers are a mix of local facilities and Charleston-based giants. Hiring is steady, but competition is real for the best shifts.

1. Trident Medical Center (Charleston, but a major employer for Summerville residents): This is the region's largest acute-care hospital. They have a constant need for CNAs in Med-Surg, Telemetry, and their ER. The culture is fast-paced, and they offer solid benefits. Insider Tip: They often post jobs for "Patient Care Technicians" (PCT), which is a CNA role with potential IV certification. Apply directly on their careers site and be flexible with shifts.

2. Summerville Medical Center (a Roper St. Francis Healthcare facility): Located right in town, this is a key local employer. It's a smaller community hospital, so the vibe is less hectic than Trident. They hire CNAs for their med-surg and ortho floors. Hiring Trend: They've been expanding their outpatient services, creating more day-shift positions.

3. Palmetto General Hospital (also in the medical park): Another solid local option. They focus on surgical and cardiac care. Their CNA roles often require experience with post-op patients. They value reliability and teamwork.

4. Nursing Homes & Long-Term Care (Local Chains): Facilities like Summerville Nursing and Rehabilitation and The Palms of Summerville are always hiring. The work is physically demanding but offers consistent hours and a strong sense of community. Insider Tip: These jobs often have lower turnover than hospitals, so building a relationship with the hiring manager is key. Turnover is highest in the first 90 days, so show up early and be ready.

5. Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC) - Charleston: For those willing to commute 20-30 minutes, CAMC is a major employer in the metro. They offer union wages and strong career ladders. The commute on I-26 can be brutal, but the pay and benefits often offset the stress.

6. Home Health Agencies (e.g., Agape Care Group, Heartland Hospice): These are growing in Summerville. They offer more autonomy and one-on-one patient care. Pay can be slightly higher to offset travel, but you need a reliable car and good time management.

Getting Licensed in SC

South Carolina's requirements are straightforward but require attention to detail. You must complete a state-approved nurse aide training program and pass the competency exam.

Requirements & Costs:

• Training: Minimum 100 hours (75 classroom, 25 clinical). Programs are offered at technical colleges like Trident Technical College (Charleston, but serves Summerville) and some private schools. Cost: $800 - $1,200. Financial Aid Tip: Many employers (like nursing homes) will pay for your training if you commit to working for them for a set period (usually 6-12 months).
• Exam: You must pass both the written/oral exam and the skills exam. The fee is $135 (as of 2023). You can register through Headmaster/.
• Background Check: A clean criminal background is required. The state will conduct a fingerprint check.
• Timeline: From enrollment to certification, expect 4-6 months. A full-time program can be completed in 4-8 weeks. After passing the exam, your name is added to the South Carolina Nurse Aide Registry.

Insider Tip: Start your job search before you finish your program. Many facilities will hire you as a "trainee" or schedule your clinicals with them, which can lead to a job offer upon passing the exam.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Where you live will impact your commute and budget. Summerville is a large town with distinct areas.

1. Historic District / Downtown: Charming, walkable, and close to the medical park (Summerville Medical Center). Rent is higher here. 1BR Rent Estimate: $1,250 - $1,400. Best for those who value community and a short commute, and can afford the premium.

2. Nexton / Cane Bay: A newer, master-planned community with modern apartments and amenities. The commute to local hospitals is easy (10-15 mins), but you'll face more traffic going to Charleston. 1BR Rent Estimate: $1,100 - $1,300. Good for young professionals who want a suburban feel.

3. Old Trolley Road / Pine Forest: Established neighborhoods with older apartment complexes and single-family homes. Very central, with easy access to both downtown and major highways. 1BR Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,100. This is the sweet spot for value and commute.

4. Summerville Medical Park Area: Living right next to the hospital means you can bike or have a 5-minute drive. It's mostly commercial and medical, but there are some apartment options. 1BR Rent Estimate: $1,050 - $1,200. Ideal for those who prioritize work-life balance and hate traffic.

5. Goose Creek / Ladson (Bordering Areas): More affordable but further out. Commute to Summerville hospitals is 15-20 minutes, and to Charleston can be 30+. 1BR Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,050. A good option if you're on a strict budget and work in the northern part of Summerville.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A CNA role in Summerville is a fantastic entry point, but the ceiling is low without further education.

Specialty Premiums & Advancement:

• Telemetry/ECG Certification: Can add $1-2/hour at hospitals like Trident.
• IV Certification: Highly valued in hospitals and can lead to PCT roles. Costs $200-300 for the course.
• Phlebotomy: Another skill boost.
• Pathways: The most common advancement is to become an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse). This requires a 12-18 month program (cost: $6,000-$12,000). The median LPN salary in Summerville is roughly $48,000, a significant jump.

10-Year Outlook (4% Growth): The growth is steady but will be filled by both new CNAs and experienced ones. The key will be specialization. CNAs with skills in geriatrics, hospice, or specific hospital units will have the most job security and mobility. With the aging population in the Charleston area, demand for home health and hospice CNAs will likely outpace other sectors.

The Verdict: Is Summerville Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Stable Job Market: With a metro population of 51,262 and proximity to Charleston, jobs are available.	Wage Stagnation: The median salary of $35,824 is modest and hasn't kept pace with rising rents.
Affordable Housing (vs. Charleston): Rent is 20-30% lower than in Charleston proper.	Traffic: Commuting to Charleston jobs can be a major stressor.
Community Feel: Summerville has a strong small-town vibe, which is great for shift workers.	Limited High-Paying Specialties: Fewer research hospitals or ultra-specialty centers compared to major metros.
Pathway to Charleston: You can live in Summerville and access higher-paying Charleston jobs.	Cost of Living Creep: The 100.6 index is rising, squeezing budgets.

Final Recommendation: Summerville is an excellent choice for a new CNA or someone seeking a stable, community-oriented environment. It's a "get your foot in the door" market. If you're ambitious and want to maximize earnings, consider living in Summerville for the affordable housing while commuting to a Charleston hospital for the first 2-3 years to build experience and savings. If you value work-life balance and a slower pace, a local job in Summerville is perfectly viable, but you must budget carefully and plan for advancement (like LPN school) to increase your income over time.

FAQs

Q: How competitive is the job market for a new CNA?
A: Moderately competitive. You'll find openings, but the best shifts (days, weekends) at the top hospitals go to those with experience or internal connections. Networking during your clinicals is crucial. Apply widely—don't just target one hospital.

Q: Do I need a car to work as a CNA in Summerville?
A: Yes, absolutely. Public transportation is limited, and most facilities are spread out. If you're working at a hospital in Charleston, a reliable car is non-negotiable for the commute.

Q: What's the typical schedule?
A: Most full-time CNAs work 12-hour shifts (7a-7p or 7p-7a), often with rotating weekends. Nursing homes frequently offer 8-hour shifts. Be prepared for the physical and mental demands of long shifts.

Q: Is the certification process difficult?
A: The exam is straightforward if you've taken your training seriously. The written part is multiple-choice, and the skills test involves demonstrating 5-7 randomly selected tasks (like taking blood pressure, transferring a patient). Many students fail due to test anxiety, not lack of knowledge. Practice your skills relentlessly.

Q: Can I work as a CNA while going to LPN school?
A: Yes, and it's common. Many local LPN programs offer evening/weekend classes. It's a grueling schedule, but working as a CNA provides valuable experience and income. Some employers offer tuition assistance for LPN school if you commit to working for them after graduation.