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How much does a Licensed Practical Nurse make?

The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse is $65,912 per year in the US.

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) play a vital role in the healthcare system. They provide essential care and support to patients in various medical settings. LPNs work under the supervision of doctors and registered nurses. They assist in tasks like taking vital signs, administering medications, and dressing wounds. The average yearly salary for LPNs is $65,912.


LPNs can earn different salaries based on experience and location. Many LPNs start with a lower salary and earn more as they gain experience. Top-earning LPNs can make over $97,000 a year. States like California, Massachusetts, and Washington offer higher salaries for LPNs. Hospitals, nursing homes, and outpatient care centers often provide the highest wages. LPNs working in these places can expect to earn more than those in schools or government facilities.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Licensed Practical Nurse?

Job seekers looking to become Licensed Practical Nurses can find rewarding opportunities in high-paying cities across the country. Santa Maria, California, leads with an average salary of nearly $91,000. Other cities like Santa Rosa and Sacramento also offer strong salaries, making them attractive locations for aspiring nurses. Each of these cities provides a combination of competitive pay and a chance to work in reputable healthcare facilities, enhancing career growth and stability.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Licensed Practical Nurse jobs, highlighting Santa Maria, CA with the highest at $90,946 and Portland, OR with the lowest at $78,603.
  1. Santa Maria, CA
    Average Salary: $90,946
    In Santa Maria, skilled nurses thrive in a close-knit community. Local healthcare facilities like Sigona Farmers Credit Union offer promising career opportunities. The supportive environment makes it great for career growth.
    Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Santa Maria, CA


  2. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $84,663
    Santa Rosa provides an excellent setting for those in nursing. The city's top employers, including Kaiser Permanente, offer stable and rewarding positions. The community's focus on health enhances job satisfaction.
    Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  3. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $82,425
    Seattle's healthcare sector is vibrant and dynamic. Major institutions like Seattle Children's Hospital provide excellent opportunities. The city's progressive approach to healthcare fosters a fulfilling career.
    Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Seattle, WA


  4. Stockton, CA
    Average Salary: $81,124
    Stockton offers a supportive environment for nurses. Local employers such as St. Joseph's Medical Center provide diverse job opportunities. The community's emphasis on health care creates a rewarding work experience.
    Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Stockton, CA


  5. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $81,111
    Boston is a hub for healthcare professionals. Renowned institutions like Massachusetts General Hospital offer top-notch positions. The city's rich medical history provides a stimulating work environment.
    Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Boston, MA


  6. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $79,946
    San Jose's tech-driven economy creates unique nursing opportunities. Hospitals like Stanford Health Care provide cutting-edge experiences. The city's diverse population enriches professional development.
    Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in San Jose, CA


  7. Spokane, WA
    Average Salary: $78,775
    Spokane offers a peaceful yet rewarding nursing career. Key employers such as Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center provide excellent job prospects. The city's natural beauty enhances overall job satisfaction.
    Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Spokane, WA


  8. Anchorage, AK
    Average Salary: $78,743
    Anchorage provides a unique nursing experience in a scenic setting. Facilities like Alaska Native Medical Center offer diverse opportunities. The city's remote location provides a distinct work environment.
    Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Anchorage, AK


  9. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $78,662
    Sacramento offers a blend of urban and rural opportunities for nurses. Employers like UC Davis Medical Center provide strong career support. The city's political hub adds to the dynamic work environment.
    Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Sacramento, CA


  10. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $78,603
    Portland is known for its eco-friendly lifestyle and strong healthcare system. Hospitals like Oregon Health & Science University offer excellent positions. The city's progressive culture enhances job satisfaction.
    Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Portland, OR

What are the best companies a Licensed Practical Nurse can work for?

Job seekers looking for top-paying roles as Licensed Practical Nurses can find excellent opportunities at Lutheran Services Carolinas. They offer an impressive average salary of $335,000. Other notable companies include Essex Group Management Inc and The New Jewish Home, each offering above-average salaries. These organizations value skilled nurses and provide competitive compensation packages. Companies such as Medix, CarDon & Associates, and Elder Care Homecare also rank high in terms of salary for Licensed Practical Nurses. These firms recognize the vital role nurses play in patient care and reward them accordingly. IntelyCare, finecare, and VOLTO offer solid salaries, making them attractive options for job seekers in this field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Licensed Practical Nurse jobs, highlighting Lutheran Services Carolinas with the highest at $335,000 and VOLTO with the lowest at $94,818.
  1. Lutheran Services Carolinas
    Average Salary: $335,000
    Lutheran Services Carolinas offers LPNs an excellent salary. They provide healthcare services in North Carolina. The company operates multiple locations to serve a diverse community.


  2. Essex Group Management Inc
    Average Salary: $120,000
    Essex Group Management Inc provides a good salary for LPNs. They focus on senior living and are active in several states. Their facilities offer a range of care options for elderly residents.


  3. The New Jewish Home
    Average Salary: $117,272
    The New Jewish Home pays LPNs well. This organization operates in New York City and provides long-term care and rehabilitation services. They have a strong reputation for quality care.


  4. Medix
    Average Salary: $112,559
    Medix offers competitive pay for LPNs. They serve clients across the United States, focusing on healthcare staffing. Their commitment to quality care makes them a great employer.


  5. CarDon & Associates
    Average Salary: $105,667
    CarDon & Associates provides a solid salary for LPNs. They offer home health services in several locations. Their focus on patient care makes them a good place to work.


  6. Elder Care Homecare
    Average Salary: $100,541
    Elder Care Homecare pays LPNs well. They provide home health services to the elderly across multiple states. Their dedication to patient well-being is evident in their work.


  7. Caring People Home Healthcare
    Average Salary: $99,412
    Caring People Home Healthcare offers a good salary for LPNs. They focus on home health care services in several states. Their commitment to quality care makes them a good employer.


  8. IntelyCare
    Average Salary: $95,505
    IntelyCare provides a fair salary for LPNs. They offer flexible staffing solutions across the United States. Their focus on employee satisfaction makes them a good choice for LPNs.


  9. finecare
    Average Salary: $94,846
    finecare offers a competitive salary for LPNs. They provide home health care services in multiple locations. Their commitment to quality care makes them a good employer.


  10. VOLTO
    Average Salary: $94,818
    VOLTO offers LPNs a fair salary. They focus on home health care services across the United States. Their dedication to patient care is a key aspect of their business.

How to earn more as a Licensed Practical Nurse?

To boost earnings as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), consider these key factors. Increasing your skills can lead to higher pay. LPNs who specialize in areas like pediatrics, geriatrics, or critical care often see higher salaries. Continuous education and certifications can also make an LPN more competitive in the job market.

Location is another important factor. Urban areas and regions with a shortage of nurses typically offer higher wages. LPNs may also increase their income by working in higher-paying settings such as hospitals, private practices, or home healthcare. Seeking positions in states with higher average salaries can also improve earning potential. Additionally, gaining experience can lead to promotions and higher pay. Experienced LPNs can become charge nurses or take on supervisory roles, which often come with higher wages.

Finally, consider the work schedule. LPNs who are willing to work nights, weekends, or overtime can earn more. Hospitals often offer shift differentials for working less desirable hours. Taking on additional responsibilities can also lead to a higher salary. LPNs who take on leadership roles or participate in special projects may see increased earnings.

  1. Specialize in high-demand areas.
  2. Choose a location with higher nursing salaries.
  3. Gain experience and seek promotions.
  4. Work flexible hours for shift differentials.
  5. Take on additional responsibilities.

Currently 19,304 Licensed Practical Nurse job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Licensed Practical Nurse in the US?

Learn what a Licensed Practical Nurse does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Licensed Practical Nurse today.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
19,304 Job Openings