Florida is experiencing a significant shortage of Certified Nursing Assistants. Nursing homes, long-term care facilities, and similar employers are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit and retain qualified staff. For every new CNA who becomes licensed in Florida, more than six are leaving the profession due to retirement, burnout, or other career changes.
At the same time, Florida’s population continues to grow rapidly—especially among residents age 60 and older. Retirees moving into the state and rising healthcare needs are driving up the demand for hands-on caregiving support. State law also requires licensed facilities to meet minimum direct-care staffing hours per resident, and a portion of those hours must come from CNAs. This creates a non-negotiable need for sufficient staffing levels.
With an aging population and legal staffing requirements, the demand for CNAs in Florida is already high and expected to continue rising. Nursing homes, hospitals, home health agencies, and assisted living facilities all rely on CNAs to deliver essential daily care. Unless major improvements are made in recruitment, retention, and training, the workforce shortage will likely deepen in 2025 and beyond.
For individuals exploring a stable and meaningful career, becoming a CNA can be an excellent choice. The path to licensure is relatively short compared to most healthcare careers, and candidates may prepare for the Florida state competency exam through focused exam-prep training designed specifically to help them successfully earn their CNA license.