Nursing Assistants Salary in Portland, OR-WA

In Portland, OR-WA, nursing assistants earn a median annual salary of $48,520, which is significantly higher than the national median of $39,530. This reflects the strong demand for healthcare services in the region and the relatively high cost of living compared to other areas. When this salary is juxtaposed with the local median household income of $94,573, it becomes evident that nursing assistants earn approximately 51% of a typical household's earnings. Despite earning nearly 23% above the national average for their occupation, nursing assistants still make less than half of what a typical Portland-WA household earns, highlighting potential financial challenges despite their essential role in healthcare.

Entry-level nursing assistants in Portland start at salaries around $42,600 (10th percentile), while those with more experience can earn up to $60,940 (90th percentile). This broad range is driven by factors such as years of experience, specialization within the field, and additional certifications or skills. As workers gain experience and possibly pursue further education or specialized training, they are often able to secure higher-paying positions that demand more responsibility, such as supervisory roles or assignments in high-demand areas like acute care settings. Additionally, local economic conditions and healthcare facility needs can influence salary variations, with higher wages potentially offered in facilities facing staffing shortages or requiring specialized skills.