If you’re considering a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), one of the biggest questions on your mind is likely, “How much does an LPN make?” Salary plays a key role in career decisions, and understanding what to expect can help you determine if this path is right for you.
What is an LPN?
If you’re questioning the salary for this role, you likely already understand the profession. But here’s an overview, just in case.
An LPN is a healthcare professional who provides essential nursing care under the supervision of RNs and/or physicians. They have a nursing certificate from an accredited LPN training program, and they must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses.
LPNs are often the primary point of contact for patients, offering hands-on care. They work in all types of healthcare environments, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, physicians’ offices, and correctional facilities. Their responsibilities consist of a full range of nursing duties, which they perform with access to an RN or physician to answer questions.
National Average Salary for LPNs
How much does an LPN make? According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for LPNs is about $55,000, with an hourly wage of around $26. But salaries range from $22 to more than $42 an hour, according to ZipRecruiter. The pay can vary substantially based on factors like location, experience, and work setting.
LPNs provide essential patient care, making them a crucial part of the healthcare system. Their salaries reflect the growing demand for skilled nursing professionals, particularly as the population ages and the need for long-term care services increases. While the national average gives a general idea of earnings, individual salaries can vary significantly.
Factors Affecting LPN Salaries
While the national average salary for LPNS provides a general benchmark, actual earnings can vary significantly based on some key factors. Understanding these influences is important as you consider your career options.
Location
Where you work as an LPN can significantly impact your salary. Some states and cities offer higher wages due to the cost of living, demand for healthcare workers, and state-specific regulations. For example, California, Alaska, and Massachusetts tend to have the highest salaries for LPNs, while southern states pay less. Also, urban areas typically pay more than rural settings, but that’s because the cost of living is typically higher in these areas.
Experience Level
Like most careers, LPN salaries increase with experience. Entry-level LPNs earn the lowest salaries, with moderate salary growth within three to seven years on the job. Experienced LPNs and those in leadership roles earn more, especially in high-demand areas or assignments.
Also, obtaining specialized certifications or training can lead to higher pay.
Work Setting
Where you work will also impact your salary as an LPN. Government assignments, nursing homes and long-term care facilities, private clinics and physicians’ offices, and home healthcare positions tend to pay the most competitive salaries.
Salary Growth and Career Advancement Opportunities
As in most roles, your earning potential as an LPN grows with experience and training. You can advance your career and grow your salary by becoming Charge Nurses who oversee other LPNs and nursing assistants or working as a shift supervisor.
You could also choose to specialize in a high-demand area or work in a setting that pays more because of the need for qualified nurses.
Finally, one of the most effective ways to increase your earnings is to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Many LPNs enroll in LPN-to-RN bridge programs, which allow you to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). RNs earn significantly higher salaries.
Become an LPN with TK Health
Correctional nursing provides financial security, and as an LPN, you can grow and advance in the role.
If you’re interested in working in correctional nursing, TK Health wants to talk to you. We’re an Oklahoma-based correctional healthcare provider that employs about 760 nurses in jails across the region. We provide excellent pay and benefits, and we’re adding to our team. Take a look at our open roles.
