How much does a Licensed Practical Nurse make?
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) play a crucial role in healthcare. Their work often involves providing patient care and support under the supervision of doctors and registered nurses. The salary for LPNs can vary widely based on experience and location. On average, an LPN earns about $65,417 a year.
LPNs often start with salaries around $44,000, with top earners making over $98,000. Many LPNs see their income increase as they gain experience. For example, those in the upper mid-range earn between $68,909 and $78,873. This salary range offers a rewarding financial perspective for those who choose this career path. LPNs can expect to see growth in their earnings as they build their experience and expertise.
What are the highest paying cities for a Licensed Practical Nurse?

-
Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $91,345
In Santa Maria, nursing professionals find a welcoming community with strong healthcare needs. The city hosts several healthcare facilities where nurses can grow. Marian Regional Medical Center provides a solid platform for professional growth.
Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $83,910
Santa Rosa offers a stable job market for nursing professionals. Here, nurses enjoy a supportive work environment. Sutter Medical Center is a prominent employer, offering great career opportunities.
Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Santa Rosa, CA
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $82,255
Seattle stands out for its vibrant healthcare sector. Nurses here benefit from a high demand for healthcare services. Major hospitals like Swedish Medical Center provide excellent career advancement opportunities.
Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $80,645
Boston offers many job opportunities for nurses, with several top-tier hospitals available. Working in Boston means access to advanced medical technologies. Massachusetts General Hospital is a notable employer in the area.
Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Boston, MA
-
Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $78,784
Spokane provides a balanced work environment with a strong focus on patient care. Nurses here work in well-equipped facilities. Sacred Heart Medical Center offers numerous opportunities for professional development.
Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Spokane, WA
-
Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $77,934
Stockton offers a mix of urban and rural healthcare settings. Nurses in this city enjoy a supportive community. St. Joseph's Medical Center is a key healthcare provider in the area.
Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Stockton, CA
-
Portland, OR
Average Salary: $77,610
Portland boasts a thriving healthcare industry. Nurses here benefit from a progressive work environment. Legacy Health is one of the major employers, known for its commitment to quality care.
Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Portland, OR
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $77,119
San Jose provides diverse opportunities for nursing professionals. The tech-savvy environment makes it unique. Regional Medical Center offers various programs for career growth.
Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Yuma, AZ
Average Salary: $76,527
Yuma offers a close-knit community with excellent healthcare facilities. Nurses here enjoy a relaxed yet rewarding work environment. Yuma Regional Medical Center is a leading employer.
Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Yuma, AZ
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $76,000
San Francisco provides a dynamic job market for nursing professionals. The city’s diverse population creates unique challenges. UCSF Medical Center is a prominent employer, offering extensive professional growth opportunities.
Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in San Francisco, CA
What are the best companies a Licensed Practical Nurse can work for?

-
Essex Group Management Inc
Average Salary: $120,000
Essex Group Management Inc offers competitive salaries for Licensed Practical Nurses. The company operates in multiple locations, including Boston, New York, and Washington D.C. Nurses work in various settings, including hospitals and home care.
-
Your Choice Caregivers
Average Salary: $118,667
Your Choice Caregivers pays well for Licensed Practical Nurses. They have a presence in New York, New Jersey, and Florida. Nurses often engage in home healthcare, providing personalized care.
-
Preferred Touch Home Care
Average Salary: $101,750
Preferred Touch Home Care offers a solid average salary for LPNs. The company operates in Texas, California, and Illinois. Nurses here focus on providing home care services.
-
Caring People Home Healthcare
Average Salary: $101,200
Caring People Home Healthcare offers a good salary for LPNs. They have locations in New York and New Jersey. Nurses work in home healthcare settings, offering personalized care.
-
Cambridge Rehabilitation and Nursing Center
Average Salary: $100,000
Cambridge Rehabilitation and Nursing Center provides a strong salary for Licensed Practical Nurses. They operate in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Nurses here work in skilled nursing facilities.
-
On With Life
Average Salary: $99,177
On With Life offers a competitive salary for LPNs. They serve clients in California, Texas, and Arizona. Nurses provide care in home and hospice settings.
-
connectRN
Average Salary: $97,415
connectRN provides a solid average salary for Licensed Practical Nurses. They operate nationwide. Nurses here can find various job opportunities in different care settings.
-
GQR
Average Salary: $96,203
GQR offers a good salary for LPNs. They operate in multiple states across the U.S. Nurses work in various healthcare facilities.
-
The Rehab & Nursing Center at Everett
Average Salary: $96,000
The Rehab & Nursing Center at Everett offers a solid salary for LPNs. They operate in Massachusetts. Nurses here work in rehabilitation and nursing care settings.
-
Slate Healthcare, LLC
Average Salary: $95,342
Slate Healthcare, LLC offers a reasonable salary for Licensed Practical Nurses. They operate in Florida and New York. Nurses work in home healthcare settings, offering personalized care.
How to earn more as a Licensed Practical Nurse?
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) plays a vital role in healthcare. With dedication and the right strategies, it is possible to increase earnings. LPNs have several avenues to boost their income.
One key strategy is to gain experience in high-demand areas. Working in busy settings like hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities can lead to higher pay. LPNs with specialized skills in these environments often earn more. Another way to increase earnings is to pursue additional certifications. These credentials can open up higher-paying job opportunities. For example, LPNs with certifications in areas such as IV therapy or wound care often see higher salaries. Gaining experience in different locations can also impact pay. Urban areas or regions with a shortage of healthcare workers typically offer higher wages. LPNs willing to relocate can find better-paying positions. Continuing education is another important factor. Advanced degrees or further training can lead to roles that pay more. LPNs who pursue a Registered Nurse (RN) degree can significantly increase their income. Finally, networking with other healthcare professionals can uncover higher-paying job opportunities.
Consider these factors to earn more as an LPN. With effort and strategic planning, it is possible to achieve higher income levels.
- Experience in High-Demand Areas
- Additional Certifications
- Relocating to Different Locations
- Pursuing Advanced Education
- Networking with Other Professionals



