Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in San Diego, CA
Median pay, San Diego metro
$48,070/year
about $23.11 an hour full-time
Middle half earns $46,710 – $51,600
Half of nursing assistant (cna)s in the San Diego metro area earn more than $48,070 a year and half earn less. That's 14% higher than the national median of $42,260, and ranks #7 of the 30 big metro areas we track for this job.
Pay range
| Percentile | Yearly | Hourly* |
|---|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $40,420 | $19.43 |
| 25th | $46,710 | $22.46 |
| Median (50th) | $48,070 | $23.11 |
| 75th | $51,600 | $24.81 |
| 90th (top earners) | $60,510 | $29.09 |
*Yearly pay divided by 2,080 hours (40 hours × 52 weeks), the full-time basis BLS uses.
Is your offer fair?
For a nursing assistant (cna) job in the San Diego metro area, here's how an offer compares:
- Below market under $46,710 ($22.46/hr). Fine for a first job in the field, otherwise worth negotiating.
- Typical $46,710 to $51,600 ($22.46 to $24.81/hr). The middle half of what people in this job earn.
- Strong offer over $51,600 ($24.81/hr). Higher than three quarters of workers here.
Before you accept
- Ask whether the employer pays for CNA training or certification, since many do in exchange for a work commitment.
- Shift differentials for nights and weekends are common. Get them in writing.
- Ask how many residents or patients you'd care for per shift. It affects the job far more than the posting says.
Also watch for the common warning signs in the posting itself: 15 job posting red flags.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, 2025, San Diego metro. Occupation: Nursing Assistants (SOC 31-1131). Figures cover wage and salary workers and don't include bonuses, benefits or overtime.