LVN/LPN salary in U.S.
A strong career option in U.S. — with programs that take 12 to 18 months to complete.
Median pay · May 2025
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
$64,400/ yr
$5,367 / mo · $30.96 / hr
Pay by experience
Entry
$49,733
Median
$64,400
Experienced
$83,450
Demand
Stable
Program length
12 to 18 months
Projected growth
+2.6%
Annual openings
54,400
Job demand & outlook
+2.6% projected growth through 2034
54,400 average annual openings nationwide for Licensed Vocational Nurses.
Source: BLS Employment Projections
Where this career can take you
A clear progression path, with real salary growth at each step
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)—
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)$64,400
- Registered Nurse (RN)—
Is this career change worth it?
A simple look at what it costs vs what you gain
What it typically costs
- Average training cost$4,862
- Time to complete12 to 18 months
- Credential earnedProfessional Certification / Diploma
What you get back
- Starting salary$49,733
- Median salary$64,400
- Experienced salary$83,450
At an entry wage of $49,733, most Licensed Vocational Nurses break even on the $4,862 training investment in about 2 months of work.
How to become a Licensed Vocational Nurse in U.S.
A clear path from where you are to where you want to be
Find a LVN/LPN program in U.S.
Browse certified training programs. Most LVN/LPN tracks complete in 12 to 18 months and average $4,862 in tuition.
Earn your Professional Certification / Diploma
Complete coursework, finish required clinical or lab hours, and pass the exam required for a Professional Certification / Diploma in U.S..
Get hired in U.S.
With roughly 54,400 LVN/LPN openings each year nationwide, graduates often find employment within 30–90 days in U.S..
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Frequently asked questions
The median salary for a Licensed Vocational Nurse in U.S. is $64,400 per year, which is $30.96 per hour. Entry level positions typically start around $49,733 while experienced Licensed Vocational Nurses can earn up to $83,450 annually.
Next step
Find LVN/LPN Classes Near You
Enter your ZIP code to see accredited LVN/LPN classes in your area.