Nursing Assistant Salary in California (2026)
California · 42.0% above national average · Very High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $78,707 | +55.0% | Very High |
| San Diego | $75,153 | +48.0% | Very High |
| San Jose | $87,340 | +72.0% | Very High |
| San Francisco | $93,941 | +85.0% | Very High |
| Fresno | $54,841 | +8.0% | Very High |
| Sacramento | $61,950 | +22.0% | Very High |
| Long Beach | $73,630 | +45.0% | Very High |
| Bakersfield | $54,841 | +8.0% | Very High |
| Anaheim | $72,106 | +42.0% | Very High |
| Santa Ana | $71,091 | +40.0% | Very High |
| Riverside | $64,997 | +28.0% | Very High |
| Stockton | $59,919 | +18.0% | Very High |
| Irvine | $78,707 | +55.0% | Very High |
| San Bernardino | $59,919 | +18.0% | Very High |
| Modesto | $56,872 | +12.0% | Very High |
| Fontana | $61,950 | +22.0% | Very High |
| Moreno Valley | $58,396 | +15.0% | Very High |
| Glendale | $75,153 | +48.0% | Very High |
| Fremont | $81,246 | +60.0% | Very High |
California is home to a very strong job market for Nursing Assistants. The state's key industries — Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $50,779 per year, California's Nursing Assistant salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average.
The cost of living in California (index: 1.42) justifies the higher pay scale. Entry-level professionals in California can expect to earn $38,173–$44,549, while experienced Nursing Assistants can command $58,894–$62,981.
Looking ahead, the Nursing Assistant profession in California is projected to grow at 3.5% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Technology continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Nursing Assistant salary in California?The average Nursing Assistant salary in California is $50,779 per year in 2026, which is 42.0% above the national average of $35,760.
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What city in California pays Nursing Assistants the most?San Francisco and San Jose typically pay Nursing Assistants the highest wages in California due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is California a good state for Nursing Assistants?California has a very strong job market with major industries in Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Nursing Assistant employment.
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How does California Nursing Assistant salary compare to the US average?At $50,779/year, California Nursing Assistant salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average of $35,760/year.