Paramedics vs. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses: Who Earns More?
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses out-earn Paramedics by $4K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Paramedics land at $60,600 and Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses at $64,400. The education gap is real: paramedic programs typically require bachelor's degree, while licensed practical and licensed vocational nurse programs require postsecondary nondegree award. Top-paying state for Paramedics is Washington ($104,310); for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses it's Washington ($83,150).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Paramedics median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Paramedics or Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses?
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses earn more nationally. The median is $60,600 for Paramedics versus $64,400 for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses, a difference of $4K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Paramedics or Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses?
Paramedics has the better 10-year outlook at 5% projected growth, compared to 2.6% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Paramedics or Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses?
Paramedics typically requires bachelor's degree. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses requires postsecondary nondegree award. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Paramedics get paid the most?
Washington is the top-paying state for Paramedics at $104,310/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Paramedics vs. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Washington, Paramedics earn $104,310 vs. $83,150 for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.