How Much Do Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) and Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN) Earn?
Introduction: LPN vs LVN – What’s the Difference?
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs)are often used interchangeably, but they refer to the same role.
The term “LPN” is used in most states, while “LVN” is used in Texas and California.
Both LPNs and LVNs provide basic nursing care, working under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and doctors.
They have similar education and certification requirements, and their job duties and pay are very similar.
How Much Do LPNs Make on Average?
The average salary for an LPN in the United States is $51,850 per year, or about $24.93 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, LPN pay can vary widely depending on factors like location, experience, specialization, and the type of healthcare facility they work in.
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Average Annual Salary
Source: BLS, March 2022
$24.93
Average Hourly Wage
Source: BLS, March 2023
Factors That Affect LPN Salary
Several factors impact how much LPNs make, including:
- Experience: LPNs with more years in the field tend to earn higher salaries. Newer LPNs may start on the lower end of the salary range, while experienced LPNs with 10+ years of experience can earn more.
- Location: LPN salaries differ by state and city. Areas with higher costs of living or a higher demand for healthcare workers tend to offer higher wages.
- Specialization: LPNs who specialize in areas like pediatrics, gerontology, or rehabilitation may earn more than those who work in general healthcare settings.
- Work Setting: LPNs who work in outpatient care centers, home health care, or skilled nursing facilities often make higher wages than those employed in hospitals or nursing homes.
LPN Salary by Specialization: Top Paying Specialties
LPN salaries can vary based on the area of nursing in which they specialize. Here are some common LPN specializations and their median annual salaries:
| LPN Specialization | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Pediatrics | $40,000 |
| Home Health | $42,000 |
| Geriatric/gerontology | $47,000 |
| Rehabilitation | $50,000 |
| Adult Health | $45,000 |
| Family Health | $38,000 |
| Palliative Care | $47,500 |
Source: 2020 Nursing Workforce Survey
Specializing in a high-demand area can help LPNs earn more, and some certifications can lead to higher-paying opportunities.
Highest Paying States for LPNs in 2024
LPNs who work in certain states are paid more due to the cost of living, healthcare demand, and state funding for healthcare services. Some of the highest-paying states for LPNs in 2024 include:
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) can earn more in states with higher living costs and quality healthcare settings. The top-paying states for LPNs have a higher cost of living, as of 2022. California and Massachusetts also offer some of the best hospitals for nurses. The states with the highest annual pay for LPNs are:
| State | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| California | $65,140 |
| Alaska | $63,650 |
| Washington | $63,250 |
| Massachusetts | $61,820 |
| Nevada | $60,490 |
Source: BLS
LPN salaries in California, in particular, are among the highest, reflecting the state’s higher cost of living and the strong demand for healthcare workers.
The Highest Paying Cities for LPNs
Within states, certain cities pay more for LPNs. In California, for example, LPNs can earn significantly more in cities with a higher cost of living. Some of the top-paying cities for LPNs are:
| State | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Napa, CA | $76,890 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | $75,880 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA | $75,410 |
| Santa Rosa, CA | $71,180 |
| Vallejo-Fairfield, CA | $70,720 |
Source: BLS
These cities offer some of the highest-paying LPN jobs in the country, especially for those with specialized training or experience.
How LPN Salaries Compare to Registered Nurses (RNs)
LPNs generally earn less than Registered Nurses (RNs) due to differences in education and job responsibilities. According to BLS data from February 2023, RNs make an average of $82,750 annually, while LPNs earn around $51,850. RNs have more advanced education and a broader scope of practice, which allows them to perform more complex tasks.
How Much Can LPNs Expect to Earn as They Gain Experience?
LPNs can expect their earnings to increase with experience. Those with over five years of experience tend to earn higher wages than new graduates, and those with 10-20 years of experience often earn above-average salaries. According to Payscale data, experienced LPNs can make $55,000 to $60,000 per year or more, depending on their location, specialty, and certification.
Ways to Increase Your Salary as an LPN
There are several ways for LPNs to increase their income:
1. Consider pursuing certifications:
Certification programs offer specialized training in areas like gerontology, hospice, or intravenous therapy, depending on the state. LPNs with specialization certifications possess advanced knowledge and skills, making them eligible for higher-paying roles.
2. Increase your education level:
LPNs can boost their salary by obtaining an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing. Although practical certificates or nursing diplomas take less time to complete, degree-holders enjoy higher salaries and more professional opportunities.
3. Gain more experience:
According to the 2020 Nursing Workforce Survey, LPNs with over five years of experience can earn higher pay. LPNs with more than 10 years of experience may also earn above-average salaries, as indicated by Payscale data from February 2023.
4. Change your practice setting:
LPNs can increase their income by working in different healthcare settings. Skilled nursing facilities, outpatient care centers, and home health services typically pay higher average salaries, according to BLS data from March 2022.
LPN vs LVN: Is There a Salary Difference?
The salary for LPNs and LVNs is essentially the same, as they perform the same duties. The only difference is in the terminology used, depending on the state. Both LPNs and LVNs earn an average salary of $51,850, but this can vary based on location, experience, and specialization.
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse: Education and Certification Requirements
Becoming an LPN typically requires completing a practical nursing program, which generally takes about one year. These programs are available at vocational schools, community colleges, and some hospitals. After completing the program, candidates must pass the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses) to become licensed.
Additionally, many LPNs pursue continuing education through certification programs to specialize in areas like gerontology, pediatrics, or rehabilitation. There are also options for LPNs who want to further their careers by completing an LPN to RN bridge program or enrolling in LPN to BSN programs.
What Are the Job Responsibilities of an LPN?
LPNs perform essential nursing tasks, including:
- Monitoring patients’ health status
- Administering medications
- Assisting with daily activities (e.g., bathing, dressing)
- Recording patients’ medical history
- Providing basic wound care
- Reporting changes in patients’ conditions to RNs or doctors
While LPNs work under the supervision of RNs, they have a significant level of independence in their job duties.
LPN Job Outlook: What’s the Future of the Profession?
The LPN job outlook is positive, with demand for LPNs expected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031, according to BLS. This growth is driven by an aging population that requires more healthcare services, particularly in long-term care and home health settings. LPN job opportunities are likely to increase in areas with high populations of elderly individuals or those with chronic health conditions.
Can LPNs Transition to Higher Paying Roles?
Yes! Many LPNs transition to higher-paying roles by advancing their education. LPNs can pursue LPN to RN bridge programs, which allow them to become registered nurses (RNs) with a higher salary and broader responsibilities. Another option is to pursue further certifications in specialized fields like critical care or cardiology to boost earning potential.
Frequently Asked Questions About LPN Salaries
Who makes more: LPNs or RNs?
RNs generally earn more than LPNs because they have more advanced education and training. On average, RNs earn about $82,750 per year, while LPNs make around $51,850 annually.
Does an LPN hold a degree or a certificate?
LPNs can hold either a vocational certification or an associate degree. However, more LPNs are pursuing higher education, and those with degrees may have better job prospects and higher salaries.
Can LPNs make good money?
Yes, LPNs can make a decent income, particularly if they pursue further education, certifications, and experience in high-paying specialties or locations.
Is it worth it to become an LPN?
Becoming an LPN can be a great career choice, especially for those who want to enter the healthcare field quickly. With an average salary of $51,850, opportunities for growth, and the ability to specialize, LPNs can enjoy a rewarding and financially stable career.
Conclusion: Is Becoming an LPN Worth It?
In conclusion, becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) can be a financially rewarding and stable career choice. While the starting salary may be lower compared to other nursing roles like Registered Nurses (RNs), LPNs have many opportunities to increase their earnings through experience, specialization, and education. If you’re looking for a fast track into healthcare with the potential for growth, the LPN path is a great option.
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