Hospice CNA Salary in Central Valley, California: Pay Rates and Factors

The average hourly wage for a Hospice Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in California's Central Valley is approximately $19.69 per hour (based on recent BLS and job board data).

Factors Influencing Pay

• Experience: Entry ~$17–18; 5+ years ~$22–24.
• Employer type: Large non-profit hospices often pay more than small for-profit agencies.
• Location within Central Valley: Fresno, Bakersfield, Modesto, Stockton, Merced vary by cost of living and competition.
• Shift differentials: Evening/night/weekend +$1–3/hr.
• Certifications: CHPNA (hospice palliative), dementia care, wound care add value.
• Union representation: Some areas have SEIU or NUHW contracts with set scales.

Context

• Central Valley wages are higher than rural CA but lower than Bay Area/LA.
• Cost of living in Central Valley has risen sharply (housing, fuel), pressuring wages.
• Benefits (health, PTO, 401k, tuition, mileage) significantly affect total compensation.

Comparison

• CA state average CNA: ~$18–20/hr
• National average CNA: ~$16–18/hr
• Hospice CNAs often earn slightly more than SNF CNAs due to travel, autonomy, emotional demands.

For current rates, check specific job postings (Indeed, Glassdoor, facility websites) and negotiate based on experience and certifications.