Share:
2024 Data

Nursing Assistant Salary in Philadelphia, PA: $39,226 (2024)

Official 2024 BLS Data | $18.86/hour | $25,930 - $55,734 range

Median Annual Salary

$39,226

2.7% vs national

Hourly Rate

$18.86

/hour

Jobs in Area

1,736

employed

Salary Range$25,930 - $55,734
10th %Median90th %
Data from Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) | Editorial guidelines

Compare to Other Cities

See All →

Philadelphia, PA

$39,226

San Jose, CA

$51,145

$11,919 more (+30.4%)

in San Jose, CA

Nursing Assistant Salary Range in Philadelphia, PA

Annual Salary Range

$39k

$26k

10th percentile

$33k

25th

$48k

75th

$56k

90th percentile

Salary Breakdown by Percentile

PercentileAnnual SalaryHourly Rate
10th Percentile (Entry Level)$25,930$12.47
25th Percentile$32,615$15.68
Median (50th Percentile)$39,226$18.86
75th Percentile$48,134$23.14
90th Percentile (Top Earners)$55,734$26.80
Average (Mean)$42,683$20.52

Nursing Assistant Market Insights for Philadelphia, PA

Compensation Overview

Nursing Assistant compensation in Philadelphia, PA aligns with regional expectations. The salary range from $25,930 to $55,734 provides a clear picture of earning potential at different career stages.

Local Market Context

Philadelphia, PA offers competitive compensation that aligns closely with national benchmarks. The Pennsylvania economy supports a diverse range of industries, providing stable employment opportunities across multiple sectors.

Career Outlook

The Nursing Assistant profession offers diverse career opportunities across industries. Professional development and continuous learning are key factors in advancing within this field. With a 115% salary range from entry-level to top earners, there is substantial room for financial growth as you advance in your career.

Tips for Increasing Your Salary

  • Develop specialized expertise to command higher compensation—top earners make 42% more than median salaries
  • Build a professional network through industry associations and local business groups
  • Pursue relevant certifications or advanced education to demonstrate expertise

+3%

vs National Avg

+5%

vs State Avg

115%

Salary Range

1,736

Jobs in Area

Career Path & Salary Progression

Typical Nursing Assistant salary growth in Philadelphia, PA based on experience level.

🎓

Entry Level

0-2 years

10th percentile

$25,930

/year

📈

Early Career

2-5 years

25th percentile

$32,615

/year

💼

Mid Career

5-10 years

50th percentile

$39,226

/year

🎯

Senior

10-15 years

75th percentile

$48,134

/year

Expert

15+ years

90th percentile

$55,734

/year

Next Career Steps

Common career progressions from Nursing Assistant:

Note: Career progression and salary growth vary based on company size, industry, skills, and performance. These estimates use percentile data from the BLS as a general guide for typical career paths.

Nursing Assistant Job Market in Philadelphia, PA

Where Nursing Assistants Work

Nursing Assistants work across multiple industries including corporations, government agencies, healthcare organizations, and consulting firms. Each sector offers different compensation structures and career trajectories.

Local Employment Landscape

The Philadelphia, PA area maintains a healthy employment base for this occupation, with opportunities distributed across multiple employers. This provides job stability and career mobility without the intense competition found in major metros.

Types of Employers Hiring

Large Corporations

Typically offer comprehensive benefits, structured advancement, and competitive base salaries with bonus potential

Small to Medium Businesses

May provide more responsibility earlier in your career, flexible work arrangements, and equity opportunities

Government Agencies

Known for job security, excellent benefits packages, pension plans, and work-life balance

Professional Services Firms

Provide client exposure, rapid skill development, and often above-market compensation for top performers

Skills That Increase Earning Potential

Advanced certifications in your specialtyLeadership and team managementData analysis and reportingCommunication and presentation skillsIndustry-specific software proficiency

Job Search Strategy for Philadelphia, PA

  • Research major employers in the Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington area and follow them on LinkedIn for job alerts
  • Join local professional associations for networking and job leads specific to Pennsylvania
  • Tailor your salary expectations based on the Philadelphia, PA market rate of $39,226
  • Consider roles at varying experience levels—entry positions start at $25,930 in this market

Nursing Assistant Career Overview in Philadelphia, PA

Local Employment
1,736
positions
Median Salary
$39,226
per year
vs National
+3%
difference
COL Index
104.2
100 = average

The job market for Nursing Assistants in Philadelphia, PA is moderate, with approximately 1,736 professionals employed across the metropolitan area. This represents a growing presence of Nursing Assistant positions, reflecting the region's economic base and employer diversity in Philadelphia, PA. Compensation aligns closely with national benchmarks, indicating a balanced supply-demand dynamic in this market.

Philadelphia, PA's diverse economy supports healthcare roles across multiple sectors including healthcare, education, government, technology, manufacturing, and professional services. Major employers in Pennsylvania range from large corporations and hospital systems to mid-size regional firms and growing startups. This employer diversity provides career stability and mobility, as professionals can advance their careers without necessarily relocating. The mix of public and private sector opportunities also creates varied compensation structures, with some employers offering lower base salaries but stronger benefits and job security.

The growth outlook for Nursing Assistant positions in Philadelphia, PA is projected to remain stable with opportunities tied to local economic growth and industry trends. With 1,736 current positions and a median salary of $39,226, the market provides a solid foundation for career development. Professionals who invest in continuing education and stay current with industry developments position themselves for both job security and upward salary mobility. The combination of Philadelphia, PA's economic trajectory and broader industry trends suggests that qualified Nursing Assistants will continue to find opportunities in this market over the coming years.

Philadelphia, PA offers a balanced proposition for Nursing Assistants. The cost of living index of 104.2 sits near the national average, meaning the median salary of $39,226 translates to real purchasing power that closely matches the nominal figure. This makes salary comparisons with other similarly-priced metros straightforward. Nursing Assistants evaluating Philadelphia, PA against peer cities should focus on factors beyond raw salary numbers, including career growth opportunities, industry specialization, commute quality, and lifestyle fit.

The Healthcare field in Philadelphia, PA benefits from the region's broader economic ecosystem. Local industry associations, professional networking groups, and continuing education opportunities through area universities and community colleges help Nursing Assistants stay connected and advance their careers. Pennsylvania's business incentive programs and workforce development initiatives also play a role in attracting employers and creating positions. For Nursing Assistants early in their career, Philadelphia, PA offers the chance to build a professional network in a market where individual contributions are often more visible than in the largest metros, potentially accelerating career progression.

Nursing Assistant Compensation Deep Dive in Philadelphia, PA

Entry LevelMedianTop Earners
$25,930$39,226$55,734

The salary range for Nursing Assistants in Philadelphia, PA spans from $25,930 at the entry level (10th percentile) to $55,734 for top earners (90th percentile), a spread of $29,804. This 115% differential reflects the significant impact that experience, specialization, credentials, and employer type have on compensation in this field. The median salary of $39,226 sits at the midpoint of the market, representing what a Nursing Assistant with moderate experience and standard qualifications can expect. The 25th percentile ($32,615) typically corresponds to early-career professionals with 1-3 years of experience, while the 75th percentile ($48,134) reflects seasoned professionals with specialized skills or management responsibilities.

Base salary tells only part of the compensation story for Nursing Assistants in Philadelphia, PA. Total compensation packages commonly include health insurance (valued at $6,000-$15,000 annually for employer contributions), retirement plan matching (typically 3-6% of salary, worth $1,569 per year at the median), paid time off (averaging 15-20 days), and in some cases performance bonuses, stock options, or professional development allowances. When evaluating job offers, Nursing Assistants should request a total compensation breakdown. A position paying $32,615 with strong benefits may deliver more value than one paying $39,226 with minimal perks.

Cost of living directly impacts how far a Nursing Assistant's salary goes in Philadelphia, PA. With a local cost-of-living index of 104.2 (where 100 equals the national average), the median salary of $39,226 provides purchasing power equivalent to approximately $37,645 in an average-cost U.S. city. This balanced cost environment means the salary figure closely reflects actual purchasing power, simplifying financial planning and comparisons with other mid-range markets.

Negotiating Nursing Assistant compensation in Philadelphia, PA requires market awareness. The gap between the 25th and 75th percentiles ($32,615 to $48,134) represents the most common negotiation range. Candidates with in-demand certifications, niche expertise, or competing offers have the strongest leverage. In this market, salaries track national norms, and well-prepared candidates can typically move offers 5-10% above the initial number. Asking for a salary review after 6-12 months, signing bonuses, or additional PTO are effective alternatives when base salary flexibility is limited. On an hourly basis, Nursing Assistants in this market earn between $12 and $27 per hour, with the median at $19.

Nursing Assistant Career Path & Growth in Philadelphia, PA

Entry
$25,930
Early Career
$32,615
Mid Career
$39,226
Experienced
$48,134
Senior
$55,734

The career trajectory for Nursing Assistants in Philadelphia, PA shows significant earning potential over time. Entry-level professionals start around $25,930, while top earners reach $55,734, representing a 2.1x increase from start to peak. This progression typically unfolds over 10-20 years and is driven by accumulating expertise, taking on leadership responsibilities, developing specializations, and building a professional reputation. In Philadelphia, PA's healthcare market, professionals who demonstrate consistent performance improvements and take on increasingly complex projects advance most quickly. Mid-career transitions into management, consulting, or entrepreneurship can also accelerate earnings beyond the standard progression curve.

Nursing Assistants in Philadelphia, PA who are exploring career pivots or complementary roles should consider positions such as related professionals in the same field, supervisory roles, and cross-functional positions. These adjacent occupations often share transferable skills and can offer different compensation structures, work environments, or growth trajectories. In Philadelphia, PA's job market, professionals who develop cross-functional capabilities spanning multiple related roles tend to be more resilient to market shifts and better positioned for leadership opportunities. Lateral moves can also provide valuable perspective that strengthens a professional's long-term career trajectory.

The skills most in demand for Nursing Assistants in Philadelphia, PA include industry-specific technical competencies, communication and collaboration skills, analytical thinking, and adaptability to new tools and processes. Employers in Philadelphia, PA value professionals who combine deep subject-matter expertise with the ability to work effectively across teams and adapt to evolving industry requirements. Pursuing relevant professional certifications can provide a measurable salary boost of 5-15% and signal commitment to the field. Continuous learning through industry conferences, online courses, and professional associations helps Nursing Assistants stay competitive in Philadelphia, PA's evolving job market.

More Questions About Nursing Assistant Salaries in Philadelphia, PA

What is the starting salary for a Nursing Assistant in Philadelphia, PA?

Entry-level Nursing Assistants in Philadelphia, PA (10th percentile) earn approximately $25,930 per year, or about $2,161 per month. The 25th percentile, representing early-career professionals with some experience, earns $32,615. These figures reflect base salary only; new hires may also receive benefits worth an additional 20-30% of base pay. Building specialized skills and pursuing relevant certifications are the fastest paths to moving beyond entry-level compensation.

How much do experienced Nursing Assistants make in Philadelphia, PA?

Experienced Nursing Assistants at the 75th percentile earn $48,134 annually in Philadelphia, PA, while top earners at the 90th percentile make $55,734. The jump from median ($39,226) to 75th percentile represents a 23% increase, typically achieved through 5-10 years of experience, management responsibilities, or specialized expertise. Senior professionals who combine technical depth with leadership skills are best positioned for top-tier compensation.

Is Philadelphia, PA a good city for Nursing Assistants?

Philadelphia, PA offers competitive compensation that closely tracks national averages. With 1,736 Nursing Assistant positions in the metro area, there are solid opportunities across several major employers. Quality of life, industry presence, and long-term career trajectory should all factor into your evaluation alongside salary data.

How does Nursing Assistant pay in Philadelphia, PA compare to the national average?

The median Nursing Assistant salary in Philadelphia, PA is $39,226, which is 3% higher than the national median of $38,200. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective purchasing power is $37,645, which provides a more accurate comparison. Within Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA ranks at a competitive level for this occupation.

What benefits do Nursing Assistants typically receive in Philadelphia, PA?

Beyond base salary, Nursing Assistants in Philadelphia, PA typically receive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement contributions (401k matching of 3-6%), paid time off (15-25 days annually), and sometimes performance bonuses or profit sharing. The total value of benefits often adds 25-35% on top of base salary, meaning a Nursing Assistant earning the median of $39,226 may receive total compensation of $50,994 or more. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement, professional development budgets, flexible work arrangements, and wellness programs.

What skills are most in demand for Nursing Assistants in Philadelphia, PA?

Nursing Assistants in Philadelphia, PA who command the highest salaries typically combine core technical competencies with strong communication skills, analytical thinking, adaptability, and a commitment to professional development. Employers in this market particularly value professionals who can demonstrate measurable impact, whether through revenue generation, cost savings, process improvements, or team leadership. Certifications relevant to the Healthcare field can increase earning potential by 5-15%. Staying current with industry trends and emerging technologies is essential for career advancement and salary growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

The median nursing assistant salary in Philadelphia, PA is $39,226 per year ($18.86/hour) as of 2026. This is based on official U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Salaries range from $25,930 for entry-level positions to $55,734 for experienced professionals in the top 10%.

Entry-level nursing assistants in Philadelphia, PA typically start at around $25,930 per year ($12.47/hour), representing the 10th percentile. New graduates and those with less than 2 years of experience fall into this range. With experience and skill development, salaries can progress to the median of $39,226 within 3-5 years.

Nursing Assistants in Philadelphia, PA earn a median hourly wage of $18.86 per hour. Hourly rates range from $12.47/hour at entry-level (10th percentile) to $26.80/hour for top earners (90th percentile). Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, this translates to annual salaries between $25,930 and $55,734.

The median nursing assistant salary of $39,226 in Philadelphia, PA is above the national median of $38,200 (2.7% higher). This salary places you at the 50th percentile, meaning half of nursing assistants in the area earn more and half earn less.

Nursing Assistants in Philadelphia, PA earn above the national average. The local median salary of $39,226 is 2.7% higher than the national median of $38,200. When adjusted for cost of living, the effective salary is approximately $37,645.

The top 10% of nursing assistants in Philadelphia, PA earn $55,734 or more per year ($26.80/hour). These top earners typically have 10+ years of experience, advanced certifications, specialized expertise, or hold senior/management positions. The 75th percentile earns $48,134, which is a realistic goal for mid-career professionals.

Key skills that can boost nursing assistant salary in Philadelphia, PA include: Strong communication and interpersonal abilities, Problem-solving and critical thinking, Technical proficiency relevant to the field, Attention to detail and organizational skills. Professionals with these skills often earn above the median of $39,226, potentially reaching the 75th percentile ($48,134) or higher. Years of relevant experience

Philadelphia, PA has a moderate job market for nursing assistants, with approximately 1,736 professionals employed in the area. The median salary of $39,226 is above the national average. Job seekers should consider both salary and local industry demand when evaluating opportunities.

Compare your nursing assistant salary to these Philadelphia, PA benchmarks: 10th percentile (entry-level): $25,930, 25th percentile: $32,615, 50th percentile (median): $39,226, 75th percentile: $48,134, 90th percentile (top earners): $55,734. If you earn more than $39,226, you're above average for the area.

Beyond the $39,226 median base salary, nursing assistants in Philadelphia, PA typically receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement plans (401k with employer matching), paid time off (15-25 days), and potentially bonuses or profit-sharing. Total compensation including benefits typically adds 25-40% to base salary value.

Experienced nursing assistants with 5-10 years in Philadelphia, PA typically earn $48,134 (75th percentile) to $55,734 (90th percentile) per year. Senior professionals with 10+ years, certifications, or management roles can reach the top 10% at $55,734. Mid-career professionals (3-5 years) usually earn around the median of $39,226.

Nursing Assistants in Philadelphia, PA can see significant salary growth over their careers. Entry-level ($25,930) to median ($39,226) typically takes 3-5 years. Reaching the 90th percentile ($55,734) may take 10+ years and often requires specialized skills, certifications, or leadership experience. That's a potential growth of $29,804 over a career.

Data Source & Methodology

Official government statistics you can trust

Primary Source

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Program

Visit Official BLS Website

Data Year

2024

2 Years Old

Geographic Area

Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington

Metropolitan Statistical Area

Occupation Code

31-1131

SOC Classification

Sample Size

1,736

Employees Surveyed

How This Data Is Collected

The OEWS program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations across all metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. Approximately 1.1 million establishments are surveyed over a three-year period, representing the most comprehensive wage data available for the U.S. labor market.

Note: Percentile wages represent actual reported wages and may differ from individual compensation packages that include benefits, bonuses, and equity.

Last updated: January 23, 2026

Salary Calculator

Nursing Assistant in Philadelphia, PA

$/yr

Enter your salary above to see how you compare

Median: $39,226/yr

How Philadelphia, PA Compares

vs National Average

$38,200

+2.7%

vs Pennsylvania Average

$37,448

+4.7%

Cost-of-Living Adjusted

$37,645

-4.0%

Cost of living in Philadelphia, PA is 4.2% above the national average.

Highest Paying Cities

See which cities pay Nursing Assistants the most.

View Top 10 Cities

Nursing Assistant Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Find open positions and apply today.

View Jobs on Indeed

Affiliate link