HHA Salary (2026): How Much Do Home Health Aides Make?
Home Health Aide pay varies widely by state, experience, and employer. The national median is around $14–$16 per hour ($29,000–$33,000 annually) — but top states like California and Massachusetts pay significantly more.
HHA Salary by State (2026)
Based on BLS OES data. Ranges reflect 25th–75th percentile. Verify current figures at bls.gov/oes (SOC 31-1121).
| State | Hourly Range | Annual Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California (CA) | $19–$22 | $39,000–$46,000 | Highest-paying state for HHAs |
| Massachusetts (MA) | $18–$21 | $37,000–$44,000 | Strong union representation |
| New York (NY) | $18–$21 | $37,000–$44,000 | NYC pay significantly higher |
| Washington (WA) | $17–$21 | $35,000–$43,000 | |
| Connecticut (CT) | $17–$20 | $35,000–$41,000 | |
| New Jersey (NJ) | $16–$19 | $33,000–$39,000 | |
| Illinois (IL) | $14–$17 | $29,000–$35,000 | |
| Pennsylvania (PA) | $13–$16 | $27,000–$33,000 | |
| Florida (FL) | $13–$16 | $27,000–$33,000 | High demand due to elderly population |
| Texas (TX) | $12–$15 | $25,000–$31,000 | |
| Georgia (GA) | $12–$15 | $25,000–$31,000 | |
| Ohio (OH) | $13–$16 | $27,000–$33,000 |
Figures are estimates based on BLS 2024 OES data. Actual pay varies by employer, experience, and location within the state.
What Affects HHA Pay?
Urban areas and high cost-of-living states (CA, NY, MA) pay significantly more. California HHAs earn roughly 50% more than the national average.
Entry-level HHAs typically earn $12–$14/hour. With 3–5 years of experience, most move into the $16–$19 range. Specialist skills (dementia care, wound care) add $1–$3/hour.
Agency HHAs are usually paid hourly (no benefits). Hospital-affiliated or facility-based HHAs often receive benefits packages that add 25–35% to total compensation.
HHAs working for Medicaid waiver programs or PACE organizations often earn more than those working for private-pay agencies.
HHAs who complete additional training in Alzheimer's/dementia care, pediatric care, or hospice can command higher rates — often $1–$3/hour above standard HHA pay.
In states like New York, Massachusetts, and Illinois, unionized HHAs (SEIU 1199) earn noticeably higher wages and have better benefit coverage than non-union HHAs.
HHA Career & Salary Progression
Starting as an HHA is a common entry point into healthcare. Here's what the path typically looks like:
Common Questions About HHA Pay
Do HHAs get benefits?
It depends on the employer and hours worked. Part-time agency HHAs typically receive no benefits. Full-time HHAs at larger agencies, hospitals, or healthcare systems may receive health insurance, paid time off, and retirement benefits.
Is HHA the same pay as CNA?
Pay is similar at entry level. CNAs typically earn $1–$3/hour more than HHAs because they have a broader scope of practice and work in facilities with stricter staffing requirements. Both roles use HHA/CNA certification as a stepping stone to LPN and RN.
Can HHAs work independently (self-employed)?
Yes. Some experienced HHAs work directly for clients as private-pay aides, often earning $20–$30/hour. However, this comes without benefits, requires self-marketing, and carries liability considerations.
What is the job outlook for HHAs?
Excellent. The BLS projects 22% job growth for home health aides from 2022–2032 — much faster than average — driven by an aging U.S. population and the preference for in-home care over nursing facilities.
Does passing the HHA exam on the first try affect salary?
Not directly. However, passing quickly means you start working (and earning) sooner. Some employers may also view first-attempt certification as a positive signal during hiring.
Related Resources
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