Certified Nursing Assistant Jobs in Durham, NC

Durham, North Carolina$33,320 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Certified Nursing Assistant Jobs in Durham

Looking for a Certified Nursing Assistant job in Durham? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Durham, NC.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Durham has a strong job market for Certified Nursing Assistants. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Certified Nursing Assistant Salary in Durham

Entry Level
$23,324
Median
$33,320
Senior Level
$45,080

Certified Nursing Assistant salaries in Durham are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Durham is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Patient CareVital SignsADL AssistanceCommunicationDocumentation

Certified Nursing Assistant Job Market in Durham

Durham, NC is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistant professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Durham offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. The city's strong Technology and Biotechnology sectors create robust demand for Certified Nursing Assistant talent. The market for Certified Nursing Assistant positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Certified Nursing Assistants in Durham

Duke University HealthUNC Health

Major employers hiring Certified Nursing Assistants in Durham include Duke University Health, UNC Health. With major hospital systems and research institutions, Durham offers excellent opportunities for healthcare professionals at all career stages. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Certified Nursing Assistants in Durham

Living in Durham as a Certified Nursing Assistant means navigating a cost of living that's close to the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,400/month (22% below the national average). At median Certified Nursing Assistant salary, rent would consume about 50% of gross income - above the recommended 30% threshold. Consider roommates or suburban options. Suburban apartments average $1,100/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

98
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.4K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 3
Market Size

Commuting as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Durham

Durham Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Certified Nursing Assistants in Durham: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Certified Nursing Assistant professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in North Carolina

North Carolina has moderate state income taxes. When evaluating offers, consider total compensation including benefits, not just base salary. Local cost of living typically has more impact on your finances than state tax differences.

Career Outlook for Certified Nursing Assistants

The job outlook for Certified Nursing Assistants in Durham is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Durham offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Patient Care, Vital Signs, ADL Assistance, Communication.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Certified Nursing Assistant salary in Durham, NC?

The average Certified Nursing Assistant salary in Durham, NC is $33,320 per year. Entry-level Certified Nursing Assistants typically start around $23,324, while experienced professionals can earn $45,080 or more. The national average for Certified Nursing Assistant roles is $34,000.

How many Certified Nursing Assistant jobs are available in Durham?

Durham has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistant professionals. Major employers hiring Certified Nursing Assistants include Duke University Health, UNC Health. The Technology and Biotechnology sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Durham a good city for Certified Nursing Assistants?

Durham is an excellent choice for Certified Nursing Assistants. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's technology industry creates strong demand for healthcare professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Certified Nursing Assistants in Durham?

Top skills for Certified Nursing Assistants in Durham include Patient Care, Vital Signs, ADL Assistance, Communication, Documentation. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Certified Nursing Assistants in Durham?

Durham's cost of living is near the national average (98% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,400/month. Purchasing power in Durham is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Certified Nursing Assistants in Durham?

Durham Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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