McLean vs Roanoke: Certified Nursing Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare certified nursing assistant salaries between McLean, VA and Roanoke, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | McLean, VA | Roanoke, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $41,672▲ | $41,492 |
| Hourly Rate | $20.03▲ | $19.95 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $33,533 | $37,573▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $36,305 | $38,766▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $45,605 | $47,073▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $48,849 | $49,384▲ |
| Total Employed | 11 | 2,430▲ |
Verdict
McLean and Roanoke are closely matched on overall certified nursing assistant compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between McLean and Roanoke is $180 (0.43%). McLean's median is -7.41% compared to the US national median of $45,007.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in McLean spans $15,316,Roanoke spans $11,811. McLean has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Roanoke ($44,321 effective) pays 9.76% more than McLean ($40,380 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose McLean if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($41,672/year)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Roanoke if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($49,384)
- ✓Larger job market (2,430 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $44,321)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, certified nursing assistant salaries in McLean grew 10.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 52.1% growth in Roanoke over the same period.
McLean, VA
$35,360 (2024) → $39,129 (2025)
Roanoke, VA
$25,620 (2019) → $38,960 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
McLean, VA
Roanoke, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays certified nursing assistants more: McLean or Roanoke?
What is the hourly rate difference between McLean and Roanoke?
Should I relocate from McLean to Roanoke as a certified nursing assistant?
What do entry-level certified nursing assistants earn in McLean vs Roanoke?
Related Comparisons
Written by Emily Chen, BSN, RN
Career Analyst
Emily has over 10 years of experience in nursing. She focuses on workforce trends in nursing. Emily has worked in various healthcare settings, including hospitals and long-term care facilities.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 6.50% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Emily Chen, BSN, RN, a licensed certified nursing assistant with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov