Licensed Practical Nurse Salary in the United States
Based on 632K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$63,623
$30.588/hr
▲ 5.8% vs 2023Salary Range
$62K – $97K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
632K
workers nationwide
Licensed Practical Nurse salary in the United States averages $63,623 per year, reflecting the critical role these healthcare professionals play in patient care. With over 632,460 workers currently employed in this field, Licensed Practical Nurses represent a substantial portion of the nursing workforce. Salaries typically range from $62,400 to $96,680 annually, depending on various employment factors.
Several elements influence earning potential for Licensed Practical Nurses across the country. Geographic location, employer type, and years of experience significantly impact compensation levels. Nurses working in specialized settings, metropolitan areas, or those holding additional certifications often command higher salaries. Shift differentials, overtime availability, and facility size also contribute to variation in total annual earnings within this profession.
Salary Distribution — Licensed Practical Nurse
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $62,400 |
| 25th percentile | $73,140 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $63,623 |
| 75th percentile | $86,550 |
| 90th percentile | $96,680 |
Licensed Practical Nurse Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Licensed Practical Nurse
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Washington | $79,700 | +25.3% | 6K |
| 2 | Rhode Island | $77,940 | +22.5% | 1K |
| 3 | Alaska | $77,670 | +22.1% | 300 |
| 4 | California | $77,170 | +21.3% | 80K |
| 5 | Oregon | $76,570 | +20.3% | 4K |
| 6 | Massachusetts | $76,560 | +20.3% | 15K |
| 7 | New Hampshire | $74,660 | +17.3% | 2K |
| 8 | Arizona | $74,020 | +16.3% | 5K |
| 9 | Nevada | $73,820 | +16.0% | 3K |
| 10 | New Jersey | $71,180 | +11.9% | 15K |
Historical Salary Trend — Licensed Practical Nurse
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $54,982 |
| 2023 | $60,153 |
| 2024 | $63,623 |
Licensed Practical Nurse Salary by Experience Level
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do licensed practical nurses make per hour in the United States?
- Licensed practical nurses earn a median of $31 per hour in the United States. This hourly rate corresponds to an annual median salary of $63,623 for full-time positions.
What is the salary range for a licensed practical nurse in the US?
- The salary range for licensed practical nurses in the United States spans from $62,400 to $96,680 per year. This range reflects variations based on experience, location, and employer type.
Which US city pays licensed practical nurses the most?
- Washington offers the highest pay for licensed practical nurses at $79,700 per year, which is significantly higher than the national median salary of $63,623.
How many licensed practical nurses are employed in the United States?
- There are approximately 632,460 licensed practical nurses currently employed throughout the United States, making it a substantial healthcare profession.