Skip to content
AffordMap
Healthcare · Kentucky

How to Become a Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses in Kentucky

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses in Kentucky earn a median salary of $58,450/year, which is 6% below the national average. Kentucky has a state income tax of ~4.0%. After taxes and rent, a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses takes home approximately $2,477/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.

$58K
Median salary in Kentucky
-6%
vs. national average
4.0%
State income tax
9,190
Employed in Kentucky

What a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses can afford in Kentucky

Gross annual salary$58,450
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.0% state tax)$3,889/mo
Median 2BR rent (Kentucky)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home36.3% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$58,450/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,477/mo

Becoming a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in Kentucky

1

Meet education requirements

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses positions in Kentucky typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Kentucky. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses positions in Kentucky require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Kentucky licensure or certification

Kentucky may require specific licensing or professional certification for licensed practical and licensed vocational nursess. Requirements vary by state — contact the Kentucky Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Kentucky

Kentucky employs 9,190 licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses. The highest concentrations are in Louisville/Jefferson County and Elizabethtown.

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses salary by metro area in Kentucky

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Louisville/Jefferson County$62K$29.92/hr2,920
Elizabethtown$61K$29.22/hr190
Paducah$61K$29.13/hr350
Bowling Green$60K$28.97/hr290
Owensboro$60K$28.71/hr190
Lexington-Fayette$59K$28.34/hr1,090

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses salary range in Kentucky

10th percentile (entry)
$46K
25th percentile
$51K
Median (50th)
$58K
75th percentile
$62K
90th percentile (senior)
$69K
View jobs for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
Currently hiring in Kentucky
View →
More openings for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
Currently hiring in Kentucky
View →
Advance your nursing career
Online BSN and MSN programs — 45% off select certificates
View →
Full licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses salary breakdown in Kentucky
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in Kentucky
After federal + 4.0% state tax
Calculate →
Compare Kentucky cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

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 Kentucky?

The median licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses salary in Kentucky is $58,450 per year ($28.1/hr). This is 6% below the national median of $62,340. Salaries range from $46,230 to $69,310.

What are the requirements to become a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in Kentucky?

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses positions in Kentucky typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Kentucky may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Kentucky licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses afford to live in Kentucky?

At the median salary of $58,450, a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in Kentucky would take home approximately $3,889/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 36.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in Kentucky?

The highest paying metro areas for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in Kentucky are Louisville/Jefferson County ($62,240), Elizabethtown ($60,780), Paducah ($60,590). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Kentucky have state income tax for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses?

Yes, Kentucky has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.0%. On a $58,450 salary, this means roughly $2,338/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.