Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary - 2023

Graduates from LPN programs work under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician and in some cases a physician assistant, podiatrist, dentist, or pharmacist. LPNs perform duties according to the scope of practice set forth by the board of nursing in their state. On this page, we bring all the information you will ever need to know about LPN Salary in the United States.


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What is the Starting Salary of an LPN?

The starting salary of an LPN is $37,150, which is approximately $14,700 below the average of experienced LPNs. Usually, within the first five years, an LPN’s salary increases depending upon experience and location where the LPN is practicing.

Type	Salary
Hourly	$17.86
Monthly	$3,100
Annual	$37,150
(Source: Compiled using data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

What is the Average Salary of an LPN as per Latest BLS Data?

LPN salary per hour, on average, is $24.93; while the average annual salary comes to $51,850. Many factors affect the average salary that an LPN makes such as; the state of employment, the scope of practice, and years of experience.

Type	Salary
Hourly	$24.93
Monthly	$4,320
Annual	$51,850
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

LPN Salary Survey

A salary survey of Licensed Practical Nurses reveals that approximately 50% of LPNs make between $46,410 and $59,770.

What Factors Play a Role in How much an LPN Earns?

Many different factors play a role in how much an LPN makes; the largest one by far is where the LPN is practicing, for example, an LPN practicing in Alabama will earn an average of $19.97 per hour, while an LPN practicing in Massachusetts will be paid ten dollars more with an hourly rate of $29.72. Certifications can also influence how much an LPN makes by advancing their skill set, making them even more valuable to the team. Examples of certifications include IV therapy, wound care, and pharmacology. Lastly, years of service also drives income, with experienced LPNs making more than novice LPNs.

How Much Has the Average Salary Grown in The Last 5 Years (2017-2021)?

LPN salary has grown 15.63% over the past five years, which means an average pay increase of $7,010.

How Much will the Average Salary Grow in The Next 5 Years (2022-2026)?

The table below looks at income growth over the next five years. An 17.15% increase is expected with a total monetary growth of $8,890.

Total LPN Compensation in the Private Sector as per Latest BLS Data

The table below breaks down the LPN salary by components including benefits and retirement savings. LPNs in the private sector can expect to make an average wage of $52,040, with an additional $21,986 in benefits and retirement savings.

Total LPN Compensation in the Government Sector as per Latest BLS Data

The table below assesses the Licensed Practical Nurse salary in the government sector. The income for LPNs in government positions is approximately $50,580, and the total benefits package is roughly $31,132 which totals $81,712. LPNs working in the government sector make more than their counterparts in the private sector, this is mainly due to the difference in benefits, with the government employed LPNs making about $7,686 more, overall in that area.

Earnings in 5 Industries Hiring the Highest Number of Licensed Practical Nurses

1. Nursing Care Facilities

LPNs working in nursing care facilities work in conjunction with a care team comprising of nurses, nursing assistants, and physical therapists or occupational therapists. The LPN, along with the team, work to care for and support the patient. Depending on the scope of practice, LPNs can do this in many ways. Some examples are passing out medication, focused assessments, wound care, or assisting with activities of daily living. LPNs in this setting can expect approximately $62,500/year.

Hourly Wage	Annual Salary
$21.60 - $30.05	$44,940 - $62,500

2. Offices of Physicians

LPNs in physician offices work together with a physician or registered nurse to provide outpatient care. Often LPNs will greet the patient and collect pertinent information to report to the physician or nurse. They can obtain vital signs, and in some states, they can give injections, like the flu shot or vaccines. Depending on their scope of practice in that particular state, LPNs can also collect samples and draw blood for testing. The licensed practical nurse pay in this area is approximately $60,240/year.

Hourly Wage	Annual Salary
$17.67 - $28.96	$36,750 - $60,240

3. Hospitals

LPNs employed in hospitals work with a physician or registered nurse to provide care for patients in a unit. The LPN in this role is subject to the scope of practice set forth by the state, but they must be aware of institutional policies. There may be further restrictions, or the institution may require that certain certificates be obtained before the LPN performs particular-tasks. LPNs in the hospital system complete focused assessments, pass medications, change dressings, take vitals, or monitor the patient’s fluid intake and output. The average income for an LPN in this setting is $60,890/year.

Hourly Wage	Annual Salary
$17.67 - $29.27	$36,750 - $60,890

4. Home Health Care Services

LPNs in Home health services work more independently than in other settings. However, they still work under the direction of a physician or nurse while in the field. They are usually assigned several different patients, and the ages and conditions of the patients can vary. LPNs can provide care for infants, children, adults, or geriatrics. Many of these patients suffer from debilitating illnesses or injuries. LPNs get to know the patient and the patient’s family and often form compassionate relationships with them. The average salary for LPNs in this industry is $71,560.

Hourly Wage	Annual Salary
$18.18 - $34.41	$37,820 - $71,560

5. Continuing Care Retirement Communities and Assisted Living Facilities for the Elderly

LPNs employed in continuing care retirement communities work with patients that are on a continuum of illness, ranging from patients that are somewhat self-sufficient to others who require full care. In this environment, the LPN works with a team of nurses, nursing assistants, and physical therapists or occupational therapists to provide the appropriate care for the patient. They typically pass out medication, focus on health assessments, perform wound care, or assist with activities of daily living. LPNs in this setting can expect approximately $61,680/year.

Hourly Wage	Annual Salary
$19.10 - $29.65	$39,730 - $61,680

Industry Wise LPN Earnings – Highest to Lowest

In this table, we have broken down LPN salaries by the many different places that LPNs work. The average wage varies from $32,600 to $67,010, depending on the industry.

Earnings in 25 States Employing the Highest Number of Licensed Practical Nurses

1. Texas

In the state of Texas, LPNs are referred to as Licensed Vocational Nurses or LVN’s. LVN’s in the Lone Star State have a wide scope of practice, even including the use of laser ablative therapy under the supervision of a physician. The annual salary in the state of Texas is $50,220 with a large expected employment growth of 10.69% during a 10 year period from 2018 to 2028.

2. California

The state of California uses the term Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) in the place of Licensed Practical Nurse. Earnings of an LVN in California are about $65,140, which is in the top five highest paying states; however, according to Sperling’s Best Places, California has a high cost of living as well. The expected employment growth over a 10 year period of 2018 to 2028 is equal to the national average of 15.14%.

3. Florida

If you are looking to take a vacation in the Gainesville, you may want to check out the job scene. Gainesville West is one of the top paying cities in Florida at $55,380, while the state of Florida overall averages $47,860. The Employment growth rate for LPNs from 2018-2028 is also higher than the national rate of 9.27%, coming in at 11.94%, with a promising 4,570 job openings each year.

4. New York

LPNs in New York have an average yearly income of $53,750, and New York City is the highest paid city in the state with an annual average wage of $51,850. However, the cost of living is also much higher than other states, according to Sperling’s Best Places. The employment growth rate from 2018-2028 is approximately 19.58%, slightly above the national average of 9.27%, with 5,250 jobs available each year. There is indeed no shortage of jobs.

5. Ohio

Ohio provides a Decision-Making Model that assists LPNs to determine if a task or procedure is within an LPN’s scope of practice, a beneficial tool to keep patients safe and everyone in compliance. LPNs who choose to practice in Ohio can expect an average of, $48,030, slightly lower than the national average of $51,850. The employment growth rate of 6.61%, from 2018 to 2028 is also lower than the national average of 9.27%. However, there are still 3,510 job openings each year.

6. Pennsylvania

LPNs working in Pennsylvania can expect to make an annual average salary of $51,090, which is above the national average. However, wages in the Philadelphia area can average as much as $55,640, nearly $4,000 over the national average of $51,850. The expected employment growth rate for the next seven years is 12.30%, which is lower than the national average, but with 3,690 job openings a year there should still be plenty of opportunities.

7. Georgia

LPNs hoping to move to Georgia may be pleasantly surprised at the wealth of job opportunities. Examples include; LPN care coordinator, pediatrician offices, transplant coordinator, and occupational health trainer. With 2,250 job openings each year you are sure to find your dream position. The average annual salary of an LPN in Georgia is $47,370 slightly lower than the national average with an expected employment growth rate of 11.89%.

8. Tennessee

The job market for LPNs in Tennessee is hot right now with some employers offering sign-on bonuses to attract talented LPNs. The average income of an LPN in Tennessee is $43,620; however, in places such as Nashville, it can be as much as $45,670. The expected employment growth will be 14.22%, from 2018-2028, which is in line with the national average.

9. Virginia

Virginia is a state that offers natural beauty and a comfortable mix of city and country living. Not to mention, where ever you live in the state you can drive to either a mountain or the beach all in one day. LPNs residing in the state of Virginia can expect an average salary of $48,430, which is slightly lower than the national average. The employment growth rate, however is in line with the national average.

10. Louisiana

Louisiana has an undeniable flavor all its own; from the festivities of Mardi Gras to the revived plantations, there is something for everyone in the state. LPNs working in Louisiana average approximately $43,900 per year, just below the national average. However, the cost of living is also below the national average, according to Sperling’s Best Places. The employment growth rate of 8.46% is well under the national average, but there are still 170 job openings every year.

11. Illinois

LPNs in Illinois can enjoy all the shopping, dining, and nightly life that the Windy City has to offer. LPNs in Illinois average about $54,080 a year in terms of income, which is above the national average. The employment growth rate from 2018 to 2028 is expected to lower. However, there still seems to be 1,550 job openings each year.

12. North Carolina

North Carolina is a charming state with the soft peaks of the Appalachian on one side and warm sandy beaches on the other. LPNs can expect to make an average of $49,210 per year in North Carolina, which is just below the national average. The employment growth rate is also below the national average, but there is still a decent number of job openings each year.

13. New Jersey

LPN’s in New Jersey are some of the top earners bringing home approximately $58,590 a year. However, the cost of living in New Jersey is also higher than the national average, according to Sperling’s Best Places. The employment growth rate is slightly below the average at 7.25%, and there are approximately 1,550 job openings each year.

14. Minnesota

If you like enjoying a beautiful summer day hanging out on the lake, Minnesota might be for you. Minnesota is coined the land of 10,000 lakes. However, there are actually 11,842 lakes in the state of Minnesota. LPNs looking to make Minnesota home can expect to earn an average income of $51,160, in line with the national average. The employment growth is just below the national average, but there are still 1,580 job openings a year.

15. Massachusetts

Massachusetts LPNs bring home an income of approximately $61,820. This figure varies depending upon where the LPN is practicing in the state as some LPNs in Massachusetts bring home as much as $76,650. The employment growth rate is 2.30%, which is lower than the national average. However, there are about 1,450 job openings each year.

16. Missouri

According to Sperling’s Best Places, Missouri has a very low cost of living with affordable housing compared to the rest of the country. The LPNs living in Missouri can expect to bring home an average income of $46,010. The employment growth rate is low. However, there are still 1,360 jobs available each year.

17. Indiana

Indiana is a very affordable place to live with low housing costs. There are several opportunities for LPNs in Indiana in cities such as Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, and Muncie. The average yearly income for LPNs in Indiana is $47,890, slightly below the national average. The employment growth rate is 9.61%, only somewhat above the national average of 9.27%.

18. Michigan

Michigan has many job openings for LPNs in cities such as Grand Rapids, Detroit, and Bay City. The average salary for an LPN working in Michigan is $54,090, which is slightly above the national average. The employment growth rate, -0.79%, is way below the national average of 9.27%, but there are still approximately 1,150 job openings each year.

19. Alabama

Cities in Alabama with the highest amount of LPN job openings are Birmingham, Huntsville, and Montgomery. The average yearly income of $41,540 is below the national average income for LPNs, but according to Sperling’s Best Places, Alabama is an affordable state with low housing costs. The expected employment growth from 2018 to 2028 is 5.28%, which is way below the national average. Despite, there are about 1,060 job openings each year.

20. Arkansas

Arkansas LPNs can find the greatest amount of job openings in Little Rock, Jonesboro, and Fayetteville. The average yearly income for an LPN in Arkansas is $43,040, which is lower than the national average. However, according to Sperling’s Best Places, Arkansas has an affordable cost of living citing low housing costs as the determining factor. The employment growth rate is approximately 10.72%, which is only slightly high than the national average.

21. Oklahoma

LPNs working in Oklahoma can expect to bring home an average salary of $44,910, which is only slightly lower than the national average. Some of the largest cities hiring LPNs are Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and Lawton. The expected employment growth rate of rate of 5.71% is well below the national average of 9.27%, and there are usually around 1,070 job openings each year.

22. Maryland

Maryland has one of the highest average yearly incomes for LPNs at $56,380. However, Sperling’s Best Places lists Maryland as having a higher than average cost of living. Some cities with plentiful job openings include Baltimore, Hagerstown, and Frederick. The expected employment growth rate from 2018-2028 is 16.24%, which is much higher than the national average, with 1,280 job openings per year.

23. Kentucky

Licensed Practical Nurse income in Kentucky is approximately $47,140 per year, and according to Sperling’s Best Places, Kentucky has an affordable cost of living, citing low housing costs as the main reason. The cities hiring the most LPNs include Louisville, Lexington, and Owensboro. The expected employment growth rate is 7.16%, which is lower than the national average with approximately 870 job openings a year statewide.

24. South Carolina

South Carolina is a state that boasts naturally beautiful beaches. LPNs working in South Carolina can expect to bring home an average income of $46,470, which is slightly lower than the national average. However, Sperling’s Best Places does rate South Carolina as being an affordable place to live. The employment growth rate of 10.17% is higher than the national average with approximately 990 annual job openings.

25. Mississippi

Mississippi LPNs can find jobs in cities such as Jackson, Tupelo, and Gulfport. The average income for LPNs in Mississippi is $41,530, which is lower than the national average. However, Sperling’s Best Places lists Mississippi as a very affordable state with low housing costs. The employment growth rate from 2018 to 2028 is expected to be 8.43% with approximately 90 job openings a year.

Licensed Practical Nurse Salary by State in Alphabetical Order

The table below is a state to state comparison of the average pay of a Licensed Practical Nurse. The earning potential of the LPN varies greatly depending on the state in which they are employed.

Salary of an LPN Compared to Other Nursing Jobs

Below, we have compared the income of an LPN to all other nursing professions. LPNs rank higher than CNAs, however, the rest of their colleagues, such as registered nurses and advanced practice nurses have a higher average wage.

Salary of an LPN Compared to Similar Healthcare Jobs

Below, we have gathered positions that are comparable to the LPNs in terms of education and income. LPNs fare very well in this comparison with only the roles of occupational/physical therapy assistants and the surgical technologist making more.