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CNA vs NP Nursing License

Average Salary
$35,760
CNA
vs
$121,610
NP
Job Growth
4%
CNA
vs
45%
NP
Workforce
1.4M+
CNA
vs
355K+
NP

Side-by-Side Comparison

Category CNA NP
Average Salary $35,760 $121,610
Workforce Size
Larger workforce = more job opportunities
1.4M+ 355K+
Job Growth Rate 4% 45%
Certification Exam Nurse Aide Competency Exam NP Certification Exam
Multi-State Compact No Yes

Key Differences

Salary

NPs earn $85,850 more per year on average than CNAs.

Winner: NP

Job Growth

NP is growing at 45%, indicating stronger demand.

Winner: NP

Multi-State Compact

NP participates in a multi-state compact, making it easier to practice across state lines.

Winner: NP

Category Winners

Higher Salary
NP $121,610
vs CNA ($35,760)
Faster Growth
NP 45%
vs CNA (4%)
Larger Workforce
CNA 1.4M+
vs NP (355K+)

Certified Nursing Assistant

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) provide basic patient care under the supervision of licensed nurses. CNAs help patients with daily activities, monitor vital signs, and serve as a vital link between patients and the healthcare team.

View CNA state requirements →

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses who provide primary and specialty healthcare services, including diagnosing conditions, prescribing medications, and managing patient care.

View NP state requirements →

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