How much does a Licensed Practical Nurse make?
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) play a vital role in healthcare. They provide essential care to patients. LPNs work in various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. Their salary reflects the importance of their work. The average yearly salary for an LPN is around $64,847. This figure can vary based on experience and location.
LPNs can expect to earn different amounts depending on their experience. For instance, those with just a few years of experience may start at around $43,240. As they gain more experience, their salary can increase. The highest earners, with many years of experience, can make up to $98,000 per year. This range shows that LPNs have good earning potential as they advance in their careers. Factors like location and the type of facility also affect salary. Urban areas and specialized facilities often offer higher pay.
What are the highest paying cities for a Licensed Practical Nurse?

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Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $95,563
In Santa Maria, nurses find rewarding work with top healthcare providers like French Hospital Medical Center. The city offers a mix of urban and rural settings, providing diverse nursing experiences. The community's warm atmosphere makes it a great place to build a career.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $85,505
Santa Rosa offers a vibrant healthcare sector with employers like Sutter Health. Nurses here enjoy a supportive environment and the chance to work with cutting-edge medical technology. The city's scenic beauty adds to the quality of life.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $81,532
Seattle's healthcare system includes major institutions like Swedish Medical Center. Nurses benefit from a dynamic work environment and a strong focus on patient care. The city's progressive culture and outdoor activities enhance the overall experience.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $81,115
Boston is home to renowned hospitals such as Massachusetts General Hospital. Nurses here work in a fast-paced setting with access to top-tier medical resources. The city's rich history and educational opportunities add to the professional growth.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $77,565
San Francisco offers a unique healthcare landscape with employers like UCSF Health. Nurses enjoy a diverse patient population and a progressive work environment. The city's cultural richness and scenic views provide a balanced lifestyle.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $77,210
San Jose's healthcare sector includes prominent employers like Stanford Health Care. Nurses here benefit from a tech-savvy environment and innovative medical practices. The city's vibrant community and outdoor activities enhance the work experience.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $77,003
Spokane offers a supportive healthcare community with facilities like Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center. Nurses enjoy a strong sense of community and access to beautiful outdoor spaces. The city's growing economy provides ample job opportunities.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $76,511
Portland's healthcare system includes top employers like Kaiser Permanente. Nurses here work in a progressive and eco-friendly environment. The city's arts scene and outdoor activities make it an attractive place to live and work.
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Yuma, AZ
Average Salary: $76,455
Yuma offers a welcoming healthcare environment with facilities like Yuma Regional Medical Center. Nurses enjoy a close-knit community and a strong focus on patient care. The city's warm climate and outdoor activities enhance the quality of life.
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Eugene, OR
Average Salary: $76,122
Eugene's healthcare sector includes employers like PeaceHealth. Nurses here benefit from a supportive work environment and a strong sense of community. The city's vibrant arts scene and outdoor opportunities add to the overall appeal.
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What are the best companies a Licensed Practical Nurse can work for?

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Your Choice Caregivers
Average Salary: $119,321
Your Choice Caregivers offers Licensed Practical Nurse jobs with a focus on home care. They serve clients in various locations, providing personalized care. Their commitment to quality care makes them a top choice for LPNs.
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Essex Group Management Inc
Average Salary: $112,437
Essex Group Management Inc provides LPN jobs in multiple facilities. They emphasize patient care and professional growth. Their locations include several states, offering diverse opportunities for LPNs.
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Always Best Care Senior Services
Average Salary: $101,803
Always Best Care Senior Services offers LPN positions with a focus on senior care. They operate in many locations, providing a supportive environment for LPNs. Their dedication to quality care makes them a great employer.
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Preferred Touch Home Care
Average Salary: $99,453
Preferred Touch Home Care provides LPN jobs with a focus on home care. They serve clients in various locations, offering personalized care. Their commitment to quality care makes them a top choice for LPNs.
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Slate Healthcare, LLC
Average Salary: $97,200
Slate Healthcare, LLC offers LPN jobs with a focus on home care. They serve clients in multiple locations, providing personalized care. Their dedication to quality care makes them a great employer.
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connectRN
Average Salary: $96,425
connectRN provides LPN jobs with a focus on various healthcare settings. They operate in many locations, offering diverse opportunities for LPNs. Their commitment to quality care makes them a top choice.
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The Rehab & Nursing Center at Everett
Average Salary: $96,000
The Rehab & Nursing Center at Everett offers LPN jobs with a focus on rehabilitation and nursing care. They serve clients in various locations, providing a supportive environment for LPNs.
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American Health Care Systems
Average Salary: $95,000
American Health Care Systems provides LPN jobs with a focus on healthcare services. They operate in many locations, offering diverse opportunities for LPNs. Their dedication to quality care makes them a great employer.
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AMX Healthcare Inc.
Average Salary: $94,304
AMX Healthcare Inc. offers LPN jobs with a focus on healthcare services. They serve clients in various locations, providing personalized care. Their commitment to quality care makes them a top choice for LPNs.
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Cambridge Rehabilitation and Nursing Center
Average Salary: $94,296
Cambridge Rehabilitation and Nursing Center provides LPN jobs with a focus on rehabilitation and nursing care. They serve clients in various locations, offering a supportive environment for LPNs.
How to earn more as a Licensed Practical Nurse?
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) plays a crucial role in healthcare. They provide essential care to patients. Increasing earnings as an LPN can lead to a more rewarding career. Several factors can help LPNs earn more. These include gaining experience, pursuing additional certifications, and choosing the right work environment.
Firstly, gaining experience can lead to higher pay. Hospitals and clinics often offer higher wages to LPNs with more years of experience. Second, additional certifications can boost earnings. Specializations in areas like pediatrics or geriatrics can make a nurse more valuable. Third, working in high-demand areas can increase pay. Urban areas or regions with a shortage of healthcare workers often offer higher salaries. Fourth, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) can lead to higher-paying positions. Many employers prefer or require LPNs with a BSN for advanced roles. Lastly, negotiating salary and benefits can make a difference. Being prepared to discuss your value during job interviews can lead to better pay.
Consider these factors to increase earnings as an LPN. Each step can lead to a more fulfilling and financially rewarding career.
- Gain experience in various healthcare settings.
- Pursue additional certifications in specialized areas.
- Choose to work in high-demand areas or specialties.
- Consider obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
- Negotiate salary and benefits during job interviews.