How much does a Licensed Practical Nurse make?
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) play a vital role in the healthcare industry. They provide essential care to patients in various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. The average yearly salary for LPNs stands at $65,226. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of healthcare facility.
LPNs often start with lower salaries, but they can increase their earnings with more experience. For instance, the lowest 10% of LPNs earn around $44,000 annually. As they gain more experience, their salaries can rise significantly. The top 10% of LPNs earn over $98,000 each year. This range shows that LPNs have good opportunities for growth and higher earnings over time. Factors like working in a specialized area or obtaining additional certifications can also boost their salary.
What are the highest paying cities for a Licensed Practical Nurse?

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Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $91,345
Santa Maria offers a welcoming environment for nurses. With facilities like French Hospital Medical Center, nurses find ample opportunities. The community support and mild climate make it a great place to work and live.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $85,948
Santa Rosa provides a vibrant setting for nursing careers. Sutter Medical Center is a key employer. The city's blend of urban and rural living makes it an attractive choice for professionals.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $82,201
Seattle is a bustling city with many healthcare options. Nurses can work at renowned places like Swedish Medical Center. The city's progressive atmosphere and outdoor activities enhance the work experience.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $81,101
Boston offers a rich history and diverse opportunities. Nurses can find jobs at top institutions like Massachusetts General Hospital. The city's academic and cultural scene adds to the professional experience.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $78,597
San Francisco is a dynamic city with many healthcare facilities. Nurses can work at UCSF Health. The city's unique culture and tech industry influence create a vibrant work environment.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $77,483
Spokane provides a balanced lifestyle with many job opportunities. Nurses can find work at Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center. The city's natural beauty and outdoor activities make it an appealing place to live and work.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $77,018
San Jose offers a thriving job market with many healthcare options. Nurses can work at Stanford Health Care. The city's tech industry and vibrant community life enhance the professional experience.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $76,985
Portland is known for its progressive culture and many job opportunities. Nurses can find work at Oregon Health & Science University. The city's focus on wellness and outdoor activities creates a supportive work environment.
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Yuma, AZ
Average Salary: $76,607
Yuma offers a warm climate and many job opportunities. Nurses can work at Yuma Regional Medical Center. The city's laid-back lifestyle and proximity to natural attractions make it a great place to work and relax.
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Eugene, OR
Average Salary: $74,970
Eugene provides a vibrant community with many job opportunities. Nurses can find work at Sacred Heart Medical Center. The city's focus on education and outdoor activities enhances the professional experience.
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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: $123,333
Your Choice Caregivers offers rewarding Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) jobs. They provide in-home care services across various locations. Their commitment to quality care makes them a top choice for LPNs.
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Essex Group Management Inc
Average Salary: $117,500
Essex Group Management Inc is known for its excellent LPN positions. They operate in multiple states and offer competitive salaries. LPNs here enjoy a supportive work environment and opportunities for professional growth.
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Caring People Home Healthcare
Average Salary: $102,692
Caring People Home Healthcare provides LPNs with fulfilling job opportunities. They offer home health services in several regions. LPNs here work closely with patients and families to ensure quality care.
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Preferred Touch Home Care
Average Salary: $101,522
Preferred Touch Home Care is a leading provider of home care services. They offer LPN positions with a focus on patient care. LPNs here benefit from a caring atmosphere and diverse work experiences.
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Cambridge Rehabilitation and Nursing Center
Average Salary: $97,852
Cambridge Rehabilitation and Nursing Center provides LPNs with stable and rewarding job opportunities. They operate in several locations and offer comprehensive care services. LPNs here are valued for their dedication and skills.
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connectRN
Average Salary: $97,391
connectRN offers LPNs a variety of job opportunities. They connect nurses with healthcare facilities across various states. LPNs here enjoy flexibility and the chance to work in different environments.
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The Rehab & Nursing Center at Everett
Average Salary: $96,000
The Rehab & Nursing Center at Everett provides LPNs with excellent job opportunities. They focus on rehabilitation and long-term care. LPNs here work in a supportive and professional setting.
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Slate Healthcare, LLC
Average Salary: $95,223
Slate Healthcare, LLC offers LPNs rewarding job opportunities. They provide home care services in multiple locations. LPNs here benefit from a caring team and diverse patient interactions.
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American Health Care Systems
Average Salary: $95,000
American Health Care Systems offers LPNs competitive salaries and job opportunities. They operate in several states and focus on quality care. LPNs here enjoy a supportive work environment.
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finecare
Average Salary: $94,167
finecare provides LPNs with job opportunities in various locations. They offer home health care services and focus on patient well-being. LPNs here work in a caring and professional setting.
How to earn more as a Licensed Practical Nurse?
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) plays a crucial role in the healthcare industry. LPNs can take several steps to increase their earnings. By focusing on these areas, LPNs can enhance their skills and marketability, leading to higher pay.
First, gaining additional certifications can boost an LPN's salary. Specializations in areas like geriatric care, pediatrics, or critical care can make LPNs more valuable to employers. Second, pursuing higher education can open up more job opportunities. Many LPNs choose to become Registered Nurses (RNs) by completing an associate or bachelor's degree in nursing. Third, working in high-demand areas can lead to higher pay. Urban areas or regions with a shortage of healthcare professionals often offer higher wages. Fourth, seeking positions in higher-paying facilities can make a significant difference. Hospitals, clinics, and private practices may offer better salaries than nursing homes or outpatient care centers. Finally, negotiating salary and benefits during the hiring process can lead to a higher starting pay. LPNs should be prepared to discuss their experience and skills to justify their desired salary.
By focusing on these factors, LPNs can improve their earning potential and advance their careers.
- Gain additional certifications.
- Pursue higher education to become an RN.
- Work in high-demand areas or regions.
- Seek positions in higher-paying facilities.
- Negotiate salary and benefits during hiring.



