Licensed Practical Nurse Salary.
Across 83 U.S. cities.
$51,000
national median salary
$42,000 to $62,000. Last updated April 2026.
Highest Paying
$70,000
San Jose, CA
Best Purchasing Power
$53,000
Hartford, CT
Lowest Paying
$39,000
Charleston, WV
Salary data sourced from SEC filings, H-1B Labor Condition Applications (DOL), Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, and aggregated job postings across 50+ platforms. Ranges reflect 25th to 75th percentile for full-time positions. Cost-of-living adjustments use Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (2025 index). Last updated April 2026.
The average Licensed Practical Nurse salary in the United States is $51,000 in 2026, with the full range spanning $42,000 at the 25th percentile to $62,000 at the 75th. San Jose pays the most at $70,000, while Hartford offers the best purchasing power after cost-of-living adjustments. Work setting creates the widest pay gap, with skilled nursing facilities and home health agencies paying above physician offices.
Licensed Practical Nurse salary by city
Skills that increase Licensed Practical Nurse pay
The skills below command measurable salary premiums for Licensed Practical Nurses based on job posting data. Learning the top skill here could add $7,140 to your annual compensation.
≈ +$7,140 per year
≈ +$6,630 per year
≈ +$6,120 per year
≈ +$5,610 per year
≈ +$5,610 per year
≈ +$5,100 per year
≈ +$5,100 per year
≈ +$4,590 per year
What you should know
Work setting creates the widest pay gap, with skilled nursing facilities and home health agencies paying above physician offices. States with nurse licensure compacts offer more flexibility and often higher pay for travel assignments. Shift differentials for evenings and weekends and IV therapy certification also contribute to higher earnings.
New LPNs start at $40,000 to $45,000 in most settings. With five years of experience and specialty skills, pay reaches $52,000 to $60,000. Charge LPNs or unit supervisors can earn $62,000 to $72,000, and many LPNs use the role as a bridge to RN licensure.
LPNs receive standard healthcare benefits including medical, dental, and retirement contributions. Overtime is common and can add $5,000 to $10,000 annually. Some employers offer sign-on bonuses of $2,000 to $5,000 in high-demand areas.