Surgical Technologists vs. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses: Who Earns More?
Surgical Technologists out-earn Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses by $250 a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Surgical Technologists land at $64,650 and Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses at $64,400. The education gap is real: surgical technologist programs typically require bachelor's degree, while licensed practical and licensed vocational nurse programs require postsecondary nondegree award. Top-paying state for Surgical Technologists is Hawaii ($82,640); for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses it's Washington ($83,150).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Surgical Technologists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Surgical Technologists or Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses?
Surgical Technologists earn more nationally. The median is $64,650 for Surgical Technologists versus $64,400 for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses, a difference of $250. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Surgical Technologists or Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses?
Surgical Technologists has the better 10-year outlook at 4.5% projected growth, compared to 2.6% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Surgical Technologists or Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses?
Surgical Technologists 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 Surgical Technologists get paid the most?
Hawaii is the top-paying state for Surgical Technologists at $82,640/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Surgical Technologists vs. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Oregon, Surgical Technologists earn $81,390 vs. $80,470 for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.