Certified Nursing Assistant Jobs in Portland, ME

Portland, Maine$36,720 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Certified Nursing Assistant Jobs in Portland

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

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.

Portland 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 Portland

Entry Level
$25,704
Median
$36,720
Senior Level
$49,680

Certified Nursing Assistant salaries in Portland are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Portland 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 Portland

Portland, ME is a specialized market with unique career opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistant professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Portland offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. The city's strong Healthcare and Tourism 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 Portland

Local hospital systemsRegional healthcare networksPrivate medical groups

Major employers hiring Certified Nursing Assistants in Portland include Local hospital systems, Regional healthcare networks, Private medical groups. With major hospital systems and research institutions, Portland 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 Portland

Living in Portland as a Certified Nursing Assistant means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. At median Certified Nursing Assistant salary, rent would consume about 59% of gross income - above the recommended 30% threshold. Consider roommates or suburban options. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

108
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 4
Market Size

Commuting as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Portland

Portland 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 Portland: 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 Maine

Maine has relatively high state income taxes. A Certified Nursing Assistant earning $36,720 might pay approximately $2,938 in state income tax. However, Maine'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 Portland is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Portland 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 Portland

Maine 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 Portland, ME?

The average Certified Nursing Assistant salary in Portland, ME is $36,720 per year. Entry-level Certified Nursing Assistants typically start around $25,704, while experienced professionals can earn $49,680 or more. The national average for Certified Nursing Assistant roles is $34,000.

How many Certified Nursing Assistant jobs are available in Portland?

Portland has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistant professionals. Major employers hiring Certified Nursing Assistants include Local hospital systems, Regional healthcare networks, Private medical groups. The Healthcare and Tourism sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Portland a good city for Certified Nursing Assistants?

Portland is an solid choice for Certified Nursing Assistants. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's healthcare industry creates strong demand for healthcare professionals.

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

Top skills for Certified Nursing Assistants in Portland 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 Portland?

Portland's cost of living is near the national average (108% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Portland is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Certified Nursing Assistants in Portland?

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

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