Average Nursing Assistants Salary in Auburn-Opelika, AL
Nursing Assistants in Auburn-Opelika, AL earn an average annual salary of $33,990. This figure falls below the national average of $41,050, a common trend in regions with specific economic drivers and a slightly lower concentration of specialized roles. Local demand and the overall economic landscape of the area play a significant role in shaping compensation for these essential healthcare professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $33,990 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 43.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $45,640.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 630 Nursing Assistants and a Location Quotient of 0.98, the job market in Auburn-Opelika, AL, indicates a stable, albeit not exceptionally concentrated, demand for this profession. The number of jobs per 1,000 workers at 8.816 suggests a consistent need for these roles within the community's healthcare infrastructure, reflecting a healthy but not rapidly expanding employment landscape.
Salary Overview
The average Nursing Assistants in Auburn-Opelika, AL earns-17.2%below the national average.
$16.3
$654
$2,833
Nursing Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Auburn-Opelika's Nursing Assistant salaries over the past four years is not provided, it's reasonable to assume a general upward trend mirroring national patterns. Wage growth in healthcare support roles typically keeps pace with inflation and increases in demand, suggesting that Nursing Assistants in this region have likely seen modest salary increases over time, reflecting evolving market conditions and the persistent need for their services.
Nursing Assistants Salary Distribution in Auburn-Opelika, AL
Salary progression for Nursing Assistants in Auburn-Opelika, AL, is typically tied to experience and skill development. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with specialized certifications or extensive experience can command higher salaries. The gap between entry-level and senior-level pay, often reflected in percentile data, signifies clear opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $27,750 | $13.3 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $25,493 | $12.3 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $30,580 | $14.7 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $42,488 | $20.4 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $45,640 | $21.9 |
Detailed Nursing Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$33,990
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$33,990
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $33,990 for Nursing Assistants in Auburn-Opelika, AL, aligns precisely with the national average cost of living (index of 100). This means that the nominal salary holds its purchasing power relative to the rest of the country, offering a balanced financial standing for those employed in this role within the local economy.
Job Market Context
630
Total Jobs
8.816
Per 1K Jobs
0.98
Location Quotient
Auburn-Opelika, AL has 0.98x the national average concentration of Nursing Assistants jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
The Location Quotient of 0.98 for Nursing Assistants in Auburn-Opelika, AL, suggests that the concentration of these professionals is very close to the national average. This indicates a competitive job market where demand is met by a comparable supply of workers, without significant over- or under-supply. Employers will find a readily available talent pool, and job seekers will encounter a stable employment environment.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Nursing Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Columbus, GA-AL Nursing Assistants Salary | $33,250↓ 2% | 36 mi |
| Montgomery, AL Nursing Assistants Salary | $33,630↓ 1% | 49 mi |
| Anniston-Oxford, AL Nursing Assistants Salary | $31,070↓ 9% | 76 mi |
| Northeast Alabama nonmetropolitan area Nursing Assistants Salary | $30,690↓ 10% | 77 mi |
| Southeast Alabama nonmetropolitan area Nursing Assistants Salary | $31,490↓ 7% | 77 mi |
Comparing salaries near Auburn-Opelika, AL
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Nursing Assistants make in Auburn-Opelika, AL?
The median annual salary for a Nursing Assistants in Auburn-Opelika, AL is $33,990. This typically ranges from $27,750 for entry-level positions to $45,640 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Auburn-Opelika, AL is 17.2% lower than the national median of $41,050.
Is Auburn-Opelika, AL a lucrative place for Nursing Assistants?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $33,990 is below the national average of $41,050, though the cost of living is on par with the national average, meaning purchasing power is maintained.
Is Auburn-Opelika, AL a good place to live for Nursing Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Auburn-Opelika, AL is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Auburn-Opelika, AL?
Some top paying nearby cities include Columbus, GA-AL ($33,250) and Montgomery, AL.
How does the local workforce size impact Nursing Assistant jobs in Auburn-Opelika, AL?
The local workforce of 630 Nursing Assistants suggests a substantial presence of these professionals, indicating a stable demand within the healthcare sector of Auburn-Opelika.
What does a Location Quotient of 0.98 mean for Nursing Assistants in Auburn-Opelika, AL?
A Location Quotient of 0.98 signifies that the concentration of Nursing Assistants in Auburn-Opelika is nearly identical to the national average, implying a balanced job market.
How does the cost of living in Auburn-Opelika, AL affect the salary of a Nursing Assistant?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, the $33,990 salary in Auburn-Opelika has the same purchasing power as the national average, making it a fair reflection of living expenses.
What is the typical career progression for a Nursing Assistant in Auburn-Opelika, AL?
Career progression typically involves gaining experience, potentially acquiring specialized certifications, and moving into roles with greater responsibility, which usually correlates with higher pay.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 630 employees in the Auburn-Opelika, AL area with a job density of 8.816 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Nursing Assistants • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Auburn-Opelika, AL