CNA Classes & Programs in Niagara Falls, New York
2 state-approved CNA programs in Niagara Falls, including free and 4-week options. Online programs are offered in other New York cities.
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CNA training in Niagara Falls
- Programs
- 2
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $37,910
- $18.23 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 4,760
- in the Buffalo-Cheektowaga-Niagara Falls region
- Healthcare facilities
- 4
- 3 nursing homes and 1 hospital
- Population
- 48,502
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
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What brings you here?
Free to use. No obligation to enroll. Compare multiple programs. We may earn a fee when you request information from schools.
In Niagara Falls, 2 state-approved CNA programs provide residents with access to foundational training needed for entry-level positions as certified nursing assistants. Situated near one of North America's most recognized natural landmarks, this city offers pathways into patient-centered careers through local educational resources tailored toward aspiring caregivers.
CNA classes here focus on preparing students for New York certification requirements by combining classroom study with practical experience when available. Niagara Falls features both a free CNA class option and an accelerated course format designed for those seeking more rapid entry into the workforce—making these programs accessible to individuals with diverse scheduling needs or financial situations.
Within the Buffalo–Cheektowaga–Niagara Falls metro area, CNAs earn around $37,910 annually according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). Choosing a Niagara Falls-based program can help open doors to job opportunities across Western New York's healthcare sector.
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Browse CNA Classes in Niagara Falls
Students in Niagara Falls can choose from 2 CNA programs—including one free option and one accelerated class—that train candidates toward New York state certification and hands-on skill development. These local CNA training programs equip graduates with essential knowledge required by employers where demand persists throughout Niagara Falls’ hospitals and long-term care settings.
Program Types in Niagara Falls
| Type | In Niagara Falls | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | 1 program | Elderwood at Wheatfield ↓ |
| 4-week (accelerated) | 1 program | Elderwood at Wheatfield ↓ |
| Online or hybrid | Not in Niagara Falls | See other New York cities → |
| Evening or weekend | Not in Niagara Falls | See other New York cities → |
A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.
Both CNA programs in Niagara Falls
Lowest published cost first.
Elderwood at Wheatfield
CostFreeHours100Weeks3
- Address
- 2600 Niagara Falls Boulevard, Niagara Falls, NY 14304
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (716) 215-8000
Elderwood offers free CNA training through a three-week, 100-hour program that includes classroom instruction, on-site orientation, and hands-on clinical experience. Training is hosted at participating Elderwood skilled nursing facilities.
Visit websiteNiagara Rehabilitation and Nursing Center
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 822 Cedar Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14301
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (716) 282-1207
Niagara Rehabilitation and Nursing Center is a state-approved CNA training provider. Contact them directly for program details and enrollment information.
Visit websiteCost, hours and weeks are each school's published figures, so confirm them with the school. A dash means the school has not published it.
Not sure which of the 2 programs fits you?
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Explore CNA Programs in Other Cities
Nearby cities
Major New York cities
- New York23 programs
- Buffalo4 programs
- Rochester9 programs
- Yonkers2 programs
- Syracuse2 programs
- Albany7 programs
CNA Employment Opportunities in Niagara Falls
| Median annual pay | $37,910 |
|---|---|
| Median hourly pay | $18.23 |
| CNA jobs in the region | 4,760 |
| Salary region | Buffalo-Cheektowaga-Niagara Falls |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.
CNA jobs in Niagara Falls remain strong as part of Western New York’s broader healthcare sector expansion. In the Buffalo–Cheektowaga–Niagara Falls region, approximately 4,760 CNAs are employed according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). The steady need for trained assistants is evident across hospitals as well as skilled nursing facilities serving both urban neighborhoods and rural communities nearby.
The CNA salary in Niagara Falls reflects regional earnings: In the Buffalo–Cheektowaga–Niagara Falls metro area, CNAs earn around $37,910 per year (about $18.23 per hour), based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) data. This median wage is below the statewide average of $45,890 but consistent with pay rates seen elsewhere across upstate regions of New York State.
CMS-certified facilities offering career options locally include Schoellkopf Health Center—a nonprofit organization with capacity for up to 120 residents—and Elderwood at Wheatfield with over 120 beds providing skilled nursing services nearby. Niagara Rehabilitation and Nursing Center also serves as an important employer within city limits while Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center delivers acute medical care at its hospital campus downtown.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Niagara Falls (3 facilities)
3 nursing homes in Niagara Falls providing CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 3 facilities ranked by CNA hours per resident per day (as provided by official data). Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
| Nursing home | Beds | CNA hrs/day |
|---|---|---|
| Schoellkopf Health Center621 Tenth Street(716) 278-4578Map | 120 | 2.1 |
| Elderwood At Wheatfield2600 Niagara Falls Boulevard(716) 215-8000Map | 123 | 1.7 |
| Niagara Rehabilitation And Nursing Center822 Cedar Avenue(716) 282-1207Map | 160 | 1.6 |
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Niagara Falls (1 facility)
1 hospital in Niagara Falls offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
| Hospital | Rating |
|---|---|
| Niagara Falls Memorial Medical CenterAcute Care Hospitals · 621 Tenth Street(716) 278-4000Map | 1/5 |
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities and Other States
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Niagara Falls? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Medina, Williamsville, Newfane, Lewiston, and Clarence, or browse the New York CNA programs page for more options.
Working in Other States
Planning to move or gain experience working in other states? Use our reciprocity guide to transfer your existing CNA license across states.
Working Through Agencies or as a Travel CNA
If you're already certified and would like to work through an agency or work as a travel CNA, browse here our directory of CNA agencies or simply fill out this short form to get matched with 3 personalized CNA agencies that can help you land your next job.
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Niagara Falls, NY
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Niagara Falls, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by New York. These include completing a New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH)–approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP), passing the New York Nurse Aide Competency Examination administered by Prometric, and being listed on the New York Nurse Aide Registry.
- At least 100 total hours of training (70 classroom and skills lab hours, 30 supervised clinical hours in a licensed nursing home)
- Completion of 16 hours of required instruction before any direct resident contact
- Background screening per New York requirements
- Sequential testing structure: Must first pass the skills evaluation (five randomly selected skills, 31-40 minutes), then pass the knowledge test (60 multiple-choice questions, 90 minutes, 70% minimum score)
- Up to three attempts to pass skills, then three attempts to pass knowledge after passing skills; all testing within two years of completing training
- Placement on the New York Nurse Aide Registry maintained by NYSDOH
Once certified, you can work in nursing homes, hospitals, home health agencies, and other licensed healthcare settings throughout Niagara Falls and across New York. CNAs must complete at least 8 hours of paid nursing work within 24 months and pay a $40 renewal fee to maintain active certification.
Already certified in another state? New York offers registry-based reciprocity for out-of-state CNAs who hold active certification in good standing and meet federal OBRA training standards. Additional documentation may be required. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in New York guide.
For complete details on training programs, testing procedures, renewal requirements, and maintaining active registry status, see our comprehensive CNA License & Registration in New York guide.
Career Growth & Advancement
Many CNAs use their experience as a stepping stone toward advanced healthcare careers:
- Specialized certifications (e.g., dementia care, medication aide)
- Promotion into shift supervisor or training coordinator roles
- Bridge programs to become an LPN or RN
- Opportunities in healthcare administration or education
Ready to start? Get info from CNA schools in Niagara Falls.
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Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Niagara Falls
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Niagara Falls?
Most CNA programs in Niagara Falls can be completed in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether you choose a traditional, accelerated, or weekend schedule. The shortest published length here is 3 weeks, at Elderwood at Wheatfield.
How much does CNA training cost in Niagara Falls?
Prices differ by school, so ask the CNA programs in Niagara Falls directly for their current costs. One program is free or employer-paid. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Niagara Falls?
Yes. Elderwood at Wheatfield offers free or employer-paid CNA training. Some hospitals, nursing homes, and workforce programs may also offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment.
Are there online CNA training options available in Niagara Falls?
No program in Niagara Falls is listed with online classes. Online and hybrid programs are offered in other New York cities. Clinical training is always in person.
Are there any 4-week CNA classes in Niagara Falls?
Yes. Elderwood at Wheatfield is an accelerated program. Accelerated programs usually take 3 to 5 weeks, depending on class schedules and clinical requirements.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near Niagara Falls there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Medina, Williamsville, Newfane, Lewiston and Clarence. You can also look at the New York state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the New York CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in New York, you must be added to the official state registry. See our New York CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Niagara Falls?
CNAs in Niagara Falls are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. CMS lists 3 nursing homes and 1 hospital in Niagara Falls. Many also use their CNA experience as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Information accuracy: requirements, salary data and other information are compiled from official sources but can change. Please confirm with the school or the state before making decisions. If you spot a mistake, let us know.