CNA Certification Cost in Texas 2026: $35K Salary, 2.1-Month Payback

CNA in Texas: certified professionals earn $35,133/year at state-adjusted rates. Total cost $1,140. Payback: 2.1 months.

CNA in Texas — Key Numbers

$35K

Avg Salary w/ Cert

+$7K

Annual Salary Boost

$1,140

Total Cost

2.1 mo

Payback Period

Salary data: BLS OEWS state estimates 2024. State multiplier: 97% of national average.

CNA Cost Breakdown

Exam fee $140

Study materials $1,000

Total upfront cost $1,140

Salary without cert (Texas) $28,615/yr

Salary with CNA (Texas) $35,133/yr

5-year net ROI $31K

CNA Job Market in Texas

Texas CNA wages sit near the national median at $35K ($16.89/hr). Nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies are the main employers. Demand is steady — BLS projects nursing assistant openings will remain high through 2032 due to turnover and an aging population. Community college CNA programs in Texas typically cost $800–$1,200 for tuition. The NNAAP exam runs $120–$175. Most hospitals in Texas prefer CNA experience for patient care technician hiring, which pays $2–$4/hr above standard CNA rates. If you're planning to go LPN or RN, CNA work experience counts toward clinical hour requirements at most Texas nursing programs.

Texas Payback Calculator

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Expected Salary with CNA in Texas

Related Certifications in Texas

CDL License → HVAC Cert →

← Back to full CNA guide

All certifications in Texas · Payback period by state

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