Certified Nursing Assistant Jobs in Irvine, CA

Irvine, California$52,020 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Certified Nursing Assistant Jobs in Irvine

Looking for a Certified Nursing Assistant job in Irvine? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Irvine, CA.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Irvine has a strong job market for Certified Nursing Assistants. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Certified Nursing Assistant Salary in Irvine

Entry Level
$36,414
Median
$52,020
Senior Level
$70,380

Certified Nursing Assistant salaries in Irvine are 53% above the national average, reflecting the high cost of living.

Purchasing power in Irvine is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Patient CareVital SignsADL AssistanceCommunicationDocumentation

Certified Nursing Assistant Job Market in Irvine

Irvine, CA is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistant professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Irvine offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. The city's strong Technology and Biotechnology sectors create robust demand for Certified Nursing Assistant talent. The market for Certified Nursing Assistant positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Certified Nursing Assistants in Irvine

HoagUCI HealthKaiser Permanente

Major employers hiring Certified Nursing Assistants in Irvine include Hoag, UCI Health, Kaiser Permanente. With major hospital systems and research institutions, Irvine offers excellent opportunities for healthcare professionals at all career stages. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Certified Nursing Assistants in Irvine

Living in Irvine as a Certified Nursing Assistant means navigating a cost of living that's significantly above the national average (153% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,600/month (44% above the national average of $1,800). At median Certified Nursing Assistant salary, rent would consume about 60% of gross income - above the recommended 30% threshold. Consider roommates or suburban options.

153
Cost Index (100=avg)
$2.6K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 3
Market Size

Commuting as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Irvine

Irvine Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Certified Nursing Assistants in Irvine: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Certified Nursing Assistant professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in California

California has relatively high state income taxes. A Certified Nursing Assistant earning $52,020 might pay approximately $4,162 in state income tax. However, California's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Certified Nursing Assistants

The job outlook for Certified Nursing Assistants in Irvine is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Irvine offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Patient Care, Vital Signs, ADL Assistance, Communication.

Relocating to Irvine

Irvine has a very high cost of living. Many Certified Nursing Assistants negotiate relocation packages or sign-on bonuses to offset moving costs. California has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Certified Nursing Assistant salary in Irvine, CA?

The average Certified Nursing Assistant salary in Irvine, CA is $52,020 per year. Entry-level Certified Nursing Assistants typically start around $36,414, while experienced professionals can earn $70,380 or more. The national average for Certified Nursing Assistant roles is $34,000.

How many Certified Nursing Assistant jobs are available in Irvine?

Irvine has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistant professionals. Major employers hiring Certified Nursing Assistants include Hoag, UCI Health, Kaiser Permanente. The Technology and Biotechnology sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Irvine a good city for Certified Nursing Assistants?

Irvine is an excellent choice for Certified Nursing Assistants. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. However, be aware of the higher cost of living when evaluating offers. The city's technology industry creates strong demand for healthcare professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Certified Nursing Assistants in Irvine?

Top skills for Certified Nursing Assistants in Irvine include Patient Care, Vital Signs, ADL Assistance, Communication, Documentation. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Certified Nursing Assistants in Irvine?

Irvine's cost of living is significantly above the national average (153% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,600/month. Purchasing power in Irvine is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Certified Nursing Assistants in Irvine?

Irvine Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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