Orthodontists vs. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses: Who Earns More?
Orthodontists out-earn Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses by $225K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Orthodontists land at $289,140 and Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses at $64,400. The education gap is real: orthodontist programs typically require doctoral or professional degree, while licensed practical and licensed vocational nurse programs require postsecondary nondegree award. Top-paying state for Orthodontists is Connecticut ($478,680); for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses it's Washington ($83,150).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Orthodontists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Orthodontists or Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses?
Orthodontists earn more nationally. The median is $289,140 for Orthodontists versus $64,400 for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses, a difference of $225K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Orthodontists or Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Orthodontists or Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses?
Orthodontists 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 Orthodontists get paid the most?
Connecticut is the top-paying state for Orthodontists at $478,680/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Orthodontists vs. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Connecticut, Orthodontists earn $478,680 vs. $73,690 for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.