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Licensed Practical Nurse salary
Licensed practical nurses provide basic nursing care under the direction of registered nurses and physicians.
Median annual
$60,000
Median hourly
$29
Top 10% earn
$78,000+
Salary range
Bottom 10%$46,000
Median$60,000
Top 10%$78,000
Licensed Practical Nurse salary by experience level
How pay typically progresses from a first job to a senior role, modelled from the reported national pay distribution.
| Experience | Years | Annual | Hourly | vs median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry level | 0–2 years | $48,200 | $23 | -20% |
| Early career | 2–5 years | $54,900 | $26 | -8% |
| Mid career | 5–10 years | $62,800 | $30 | +5% |
| Senior / experienced | 10+ years | $73,200 | $35 | +22% |
- Entry level: Starting pay for newly qualified licensed practical nurses, before specialisation or overtime.
- Early career: Pay rises quickly once you can work independently and take on harder assignments.
- Mid career: Most workers sit around this level, often with a specialism or a first supervisory role.
- Senior / experienced: Lead, senior or management roles, plus the highest-paying employers and locations.
Career details
Education
State-approved practical nursing program plus NCLEX-PN licensure.
Job outlook
5% growth through 2033 — steady demand in long-term care.
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