Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 632,430 licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses, and they earn a median of $62,340/year. The range runs from $48K to $81K. Washington pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses start around $48K. The gap between that and the median ($62K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $81K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | $80K | 6,450 |
| Rhode Island | $78K | 1,080 |
| Alaska | $78K | 300 |
| California | $77K | 79,610 |
| Oregon | $77K | 4,340 |
| Massachusetts | $77K | 15,210 |
| New Hampshire | $75K | 2,130 |
| Arizona | $74K | 5,200 |
| Nevada | $74K | 3,210 |
| New Jersey | $71K | 15,210 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses make?▼
The median licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses salary in the United States is $62,340 per year ($30/hour). Entry-level positions start around $47,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,510.
What education do you need to become a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses.
What are the highest paying states for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses?▼
The highest paying states for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses are Washington ($79,700), Rhode Island ($77,940), Alaska ($77,670), California ($77,170), Oregon ($76,570). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.