8. Georgia — $29,600 Median
Georgia's median hourly rate lands at $14.20 for home health aides. Atlanta metro pushes the average up; south Georgia counties pull it back down.
The state expanded its Medicaid home care program in 2024, which added thousands of paid client hours. Agencies raised base rates $1 to $2 an hour to keep aides from leaving for retail or fast food.
Certification (CNA or HHA) is not required statewide but almost every agency asks for it. Certified aides negotiate 10 to 15 percent above uncertified peers at the same agency.
