Average Nursing Assistants Salary in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
Nursing Assistants in South Central Kentucky's nonmetropolitan area earn an average annual salary of $34,950. This figure is notably below the national average of $41,050, reflecting the economic dynamics and potentially lower demand for specialized healthcare roles in non-urbanized regions. Localized economic factors and the specific needs of the healthcare sector within this area significantly influence compensation levels.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $34,950 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 34.3% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $43,500.
- Outlook: The job market for Nursing Assistants in South Central Kentucky's nonmetropolitan area appears robust, with a total local workforce of 2,350 individuals. The location quotient of 1.52 indicates a higher concentration of these roles compared to the national average, suggesting a consistent demand that outpaces national distribution. This concentration points to a stable and potentially growing need for nursing assistants within the region's healthcare infrastructure.
Salary Overview
The average Nursing Assistants in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area earns-14.9%below the national average.
$16.8
$672
$2,913
Nursing Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for this nonmetropolitan area is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Nursing Assistants have seen gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Economic recovery, increased healthcare needs, and inflation typically contribute to modest annual increases in compensation for essential roles like nursing assistants, even in less urbanized settings.
Nursing Assistants Salary Distribution in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
Career progression for Nursing Assistants typically involves gaining experience and specialized certifications, which can lead to higher earning potential. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end of the salary spectrum, while senior Nursing Assistants with extensive experience and supervisory responsibilities can command salaries significantly above the average. The percentile gaps in salary distribution signify clear opportunities for career advancement and increased earning capacity within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $27,150 | $13.1 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $26,213 | $12.6 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $35,290 | $17 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $43,688 | $21 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $43,500 | $20.9 |
Detailed Nursing Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$34,950
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$34,950
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $34,950 for Nursing Assistants in South Central Kentucky's nonmetropolitan area aligns precisely with the national average cost of living index of 100. This means that while the nominal salary is lower than the national average, the purchasing power of that income locally is comparable to the national standard, suggesting that the lower pay is offset by more affordable living expenses.
Job Market Context
2,350
Total Jobs
13.682
Per 1K Jobs
1.52
Location Quotient
South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area has 1.5x the national concentration of Nursing Assistants jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.
With a location quotient of 1.52, South Central Kentucky's nonmetropolitan area exhibits a significantly higher concentration of Nursing Assistant jobs than the national average. This indicates that the job market is relatively abundant for these professionals, suggesting that employers may have a greater need for their services compared to other regions. This concentration can translate to more job opportunities and potentially more competitive hiring environments for employers.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Nursing Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Lexington-Fayette, KY Nursing Assistants Salary | $40,340↑ 15% | 28 mi |
| Elizabethtown, KY Nursing Assistants Salary | $37,440↑ 7% | 66 mi |
| Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN Nursing Assistants Salary | $40,300↑ 15% | 72 mi |
| Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN Nursing Assistants Salary | $40,900↑ 17% | 100 mi |
Comparing salaries near South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Nursing Assistants make in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Nursing Assistants in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is $34,950. This typically ranges from $27,150 for entry-level positions to $43,500 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is 14.9% lower than the national median of $41,050.
Is South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Nursing Assistants?
No, it is not considered a lucrative place based on average salary.The average annual salary of $34,950 is substantially lower than the national average of $41,050. However, the cost of living is on par with the national average, meaning the lower salary's purchasing power is maintained locally.
Is South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Nursing Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Lexington-Fayette, KY ($40,340) and Elizabethtown, KY.
How does the number of Nursing Assistants in South Central Kentucky compare to the national average?
With 13.682 jobs per 1,000 workers, the concentration of Nursing Assistants in South Central Kentucky is 52% higher than the national average, as indicated by a location quotient of 1.52.
What is the total number of Nursing Assistants employed in South Central Kentucky?
There are approximately 2,350 Nursing Assistants employed in the South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area.
Does experience impact a Nursing Assistant's salary in this region?
Yes, experience is a key factor in salary progression. Senior Nursing Assistants with more experience and potentially specialized skills typically earn more than entry-level professionals.
How does the cost of living in South Central Kentucky affect the Nursing Assistant salary?
The cost of living index is 100, matching the national average. This means the $34,950 salary has purchasing power equivalent to the national average, despite being lower than the national salary benchmark.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 2,350 employees in the South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 13.682 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 South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area