How to Become a Home Health Aide in North Carolina (2025)
Every day in North Carolina, home health aides step into people’s lives at their most vulnerable moments, helping them stay safe and comfortable in their own homes. If you're drawn to a compassionate healthcare career without years of schooling, becoming a Home Health Aide (HHA) is a rewarding path, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting a national median pay of $34,900 per year ($16.78 per hour) as of May 2024. This guide details the HHA requirements in North Carolina, from training to landing your first job.
5. Continue Building Skills
Many HHAs choose to pursue additional training, such as becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Patient Care Technician (PCT), or even moving into nursing programs over time.
Cost of Home Health Aide Training in North Carolina
Training programs in North Carolina are generally affordable compared to other healthcare certifications. The average cost ranges from $400 to $1,200, depending on the provider, program length, and whether clinical supplies are included.
Financial aid and government programs can help cover costs:
- Federal aid through FAFSA may be available at eligible schools.
- Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) grants sometimes cover HHA training for eligible students.
- Some employers, especially home health agencies, offer tuition reimbursement if you agree to work with them after finishing training.
How Much Do Home Health Aides Make in North Carolina?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Annual mean wage: $30,810
- Hourly mean wage: $14.81
Pay can vary based on your location, employer, and experience. Larger cities may offer higher wages, while rural areas may pay less. Shift differentials, overtime, and additional responsibilities can also increase earnings.
Career Growth Opportunities
Becoming a Home Health Aide is often a first step into healthcare. With experience and additional training, HHAs in North Carolina can move into roles such as:
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) – Provides more direct patient care in hospitals and long-term care settings.
- Patient Care Technician (PCT) – Expands responsibilities with skills like EKG monitoring or phlebotomy.
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) – Requires more schooling, but opens the door to nursing roles with higher pay and responsibility.
- Medical Assistant – Supports doctors in clinics with both administrative and clinical tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become a home health aide in NC?
You need to complete at least 75 hours of state-approved training and, in some cases, be listed on the North Carolina Nurse Aide I Registry. After training, you can apply for HHA positions through agencies, assisted living centers, or private employers.
What are the requirements to be a caregiver in North Carolina?
Caregivers, including HHAs, usually need a high school diploma or GED, formal training, a background check, and sometimes health clearances like TB testing or immunizations. Registry listing may also be required for certain roles.
How much does a HHA make in North Carolina?
The average annual wage for HHAs in North Carolina is $30,810, which equals about $14.81 per hour. Pay varies by employer, location, and experience.
Final Thoughts
Home health aides bring comfort and safety to people who need care in their own homes. It’s work that strengthens families, supports independence, and opens the door to a lasting career in healthcare. With affordable training and steady demand across North Carolina, now is a great time to step into this role.
Ready to start your journey? Explore training options near you, compare costs, and take the first step toward becoming a Home Health Aide in North Carolina today.
If you're exploring various professional paths, Dreambound has in-depth guides to help assist you. Explore a few of these resources below.
Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.
