Cardiologists vs. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses: Who Earns More?
Cardiologists out-earn Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses by $432K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Cardiologists land at $496,010 and Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses at $64,400. The education gap is real: cardiologist programs typically require doctoral or professional degree, while licensed practical and licensed vocational nurse programs require postsecondary nondegree award. Top-paying state for Cardiologists is Washington ($656,330); for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses it's Washington ($83,150).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Cardiologists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Cardiologists or Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses?
Cardiologists earn more nationally. The median is $496,010 for Cardiologists versus $64,400 for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses, a difference of $432K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Cardiologists or Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses?
Cardiologists has the better 10-year outlook at 4.1% projected growth, compared to 2.6% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Cardiologists or Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses?
Cardiologists typically requires doctoral or professional degree. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses requires postsecondary nondegree award. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Cardiologists get paid the most?
Washington is the top-paying state for Cardiologists at $656,330/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Cardiologists vs. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Washington, Cardiologists earn $656,330 vs. $83,150 for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.