CNA vs HHA vs PCA: What’s the Difference?

If you’re exploring a caregiving career, you’ve likely seen job titles such as CNA, HHA, and PCA. While all three roles involve supporting seniors and individuals with disabilities, each position has different responsibilities, pay levels, training requirements, and career paths. This guide breaks down the differences between Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), Home Health Aides (HHAs), and Personal Care Aides (PCAs) to help you decide which role is best for you. To explore openings, visit: https://carehireusa.com/job-category/caregiver-jobs

Caregiver SalaryLast updated on 21 Dec 2025

What Is a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant)?

A CNA is a licensed caregiver who provides hands-on care in medical and non-medical settings. CNAs work in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, assisted living communities, and private homes.

CNA Responsibilities

CNAs handle more clinical tasks, including:

  • Measuring vital signs

  • Recording patient information

  • Assisting with mobility and transfers

  • Bathing, grooming, and toileting support

  • Basic wound care assistance

  • Communicating changes to nurses

  • Supporting rehabilitation exercises

CNA Training Requirements

To become a CNA, you must:

  • Complete a state-approved CNA training program (4–12 weeks)

  • Finish 50–100 hours of classroom + clinical practice

  • Pass a state certification exam

After certification, CNAs are listed on the state nurse registry.

CNA Salary

CNAs generally earn:

$16–$28 per hour, depending on experience and location.

High-paying cities include:

Explore CNA jobs here:
https://carehireusa.com/job-category/certified-nursing-assistant-cna-jobs

What Is an HHA (Home Health Aide)?

A Home Health Aide (HHA) provides personal care to clients in their homes, usually under the supervision of a nurse or agency.

HHA Responsibilities

Typical duties include:

  • Bathing, grooming, dressing

  • Light housekeeping

  • Meal preparation

  • Assisting with mobility

  • Monitoring basic health changes

  • Providing companionship

  • Following care plans created by nurses

HHAs focus primarily on in-home care, giving seniors the ability to age comfortably at home.

HHA Training Requirements

Training varies by state:

  • 40–75 hours of training

  • Basic health and safety coursework

  • Clinical practice

  • Agency-specific training

Some states require HHAs to pass a competency exam.

HHA Salary

HHAs typically earn:

$14–$22 per hour

Cities with strong demand include:

Explore HHA jobs here:
https://carehireusa.com/job-category/home-health-aide-hha-jobs

What Is a PCA (Personal Care Aide)?

A Personal Care Aide (PCA) offers non-medical assistance and companionship to clients in homes and community settings. This is the most common entry-level role in caregiving.

PCA Responsibilities

PCAs focus on:

  • Companionship

  • Light housekeeping

  • Meal prep

  • Organizing medications (not administering)

  • Safety supervision

  • Assistance with daily activities (bathing, dressing)

  • Transportation and errands

PCAs cannot perform medical procedures.

PCA Training Requirements

Most states do not require certification for PCA roles.

Training is usually provided by employers and may include:

  • Personal hygiene assistance

  • Infection control basics

  • Emergency procedures

  • Communication and documentation

PCA Salary

PCAs earn:

$12–$18 per hour

Cities with strong PCA hiring:

Explore PCA/companion care roles here:
https://carehireusa.com/job-category/companion-care-jobs

Side-by-Side Comparison: CNA vs HHA vs PCA

Feature

PCA

HHA

CNA

Medical tasks

No

Limited

Yes

Training required

Minimal

40–75 hours

4–12 weeks

Works in homes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Works in hospitals

No

No

Yes

Average pay

$12–$18/hr

$14–$22/hr

$16–$28/hr

Demand

Very high

Very high

Extremely high

Which Role Is Right for You?

Choose PCA if…

  • You are new to caregiving

  • You prefer companionship-focused roles

  • You want to start working quickly

Choose HHA if…

  • You want to work in home care only

  • You want higher earning potential

  • You prefer direct personal care tasks

Choose CNA if…

  • You want a medical-career pathway

  • You want hospital or nursing home opportunities

  • You want the highest pay and most growth potential

How to Move Up the Caregiving Career Ladder

Many caregivers start as PCAs or HHAs and later become CNAs.

1. Start as a PCA (No Experience Required)

Apply here: https://carehireusa.com/job-category/caregiver-jobs

2. Complete HHA or CNA Training

Training programs help you qualify for better-paying jobs.

3. Gain Experience in Home Care or Assisted Living

4. Transition into Specialized Roles

Examples:

  • Dementia care specialist

  • Hospice aide

  • Medication technician

  • Lead caregiver or shift supervisor

Where to Find CNA, HHA & PCA Jobs Near You

You can apply instantly for jobs in major cities:

Los Angeles:

https://carehireusa.com/caregiver-jobs-in-los-angeles/

New York City:

https://carehireusa.com/caregiver-jobs-in-new-york

Houston:

https://carehireusa.com/caregiver-jobs-in-houston/

Phoenix:

https://carehireusa.com/caregiver-jobs-in-phoenix/

Chicago:

https://carehireusa.com/caregiver-jobs-in-chicago/

Or browse all categories:
https://carehireusa.com/job-category/caregiver-jobs

Conclusion

Choosing between CNA, HHA, and PCA depends on your goals, preferred work environment, and desired pay range. PCAs are excellent for beginners, HHAs are ideal for those who enjoy home care, and CNAs offer the widest career opportunities.

Whichever path you choose, caregiver roles are in high demand across the United States, and you can start applying today.

Begin your caregiving career now:
https://carehireusa.com/job-category/caregiver-jobs


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