How to Become a Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses in California
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses in California earn a median salary of $77,170/year, which is 24% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.3%. After taxes and rent, a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses takes home approximately $3,535/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses can afford in California
Becoming a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in California
Meet education requirements
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for licensed practical and licensed vocational nursess. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 79,610 licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $93K | $44.64/hr | 2,930 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $91K | $43.66/hr | 8,290 |
| Napa | $82K | $39.34/hr | 320 |
| Salinas | $81K | $38.75/hr | 630 |
| Vallejo | $80K | $38.64/hr | 800 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $80K | $38.55/hr | 820 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $80K | $38.26/hr | 350 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $79K | $38.2/hr | 4,350 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $78K | $37.26/hr | 430 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $77K | $37.16/hr | 6,640 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $77K | $36.85/hr | 740 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $77K | $36.84/hr | 1,160 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $76K | $36.68/hr | 32,320 |
| Yuba City | $76K | $36.55/hr | 280 |
| Modesto | $76K | $36.44/hr | 1,030 |
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses salary range in California
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses make in California?▼
The median licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses salary in California is $77,170 per year ($37.1/hr). This is 24% above the national median of $62,340. Salaries range from $62,390 to $99,840.
What are the requirements to become a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in California?▼
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $77,170, a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in California would take home approximately $4,947/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($92,840), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($90,810), Napa ($81,820). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.3%. On a $77,170 salary, this means roughly $3,314/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.