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Licensed Practical Nurse — Job Market — United States

Salary data, skills requirements, and demand insights for Licensed Practical Nurse roles — United States.

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Powered by real market data for Licensed Practical Nurse roles — United States
Last Updated: May 28, 2026
Licensed Practical Nurse — Job Market — United States

The Licensed Practical Nurse job market in the United States offers a competitive salary range of USD 73,163 – 131,693 with a mid-point of 97,550, reflecting the demand for skilled healthcare professionals. Sectors like hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health centers drive the hiring for LPNs. Regional factors such as population demographics and healthcare infrastructure influence market dynamics. The combination of rising healthcare needs and specialized care requirements makes the role of LPN in the U.S. unique and vital.

Market Overview

193,100 annual job openings (U.S.)
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S.
$97,550 avg. annual salary
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S.
Outlook: 6
10-year projection

Typical Candidate Profile

1-5 experience
Typical for this role
Bachelor's degree
Most common education

Most requested skills:

Patient Care Clinical Assessment Medication Administration Electronic Health Records CPR/BLS

Common certifications:

RN License BLS ACLS PALS
Based on U.S. occupation data (O*NET)

Salary Range

$73,163
Entry
$97,550
Mid-Level
$131,693
Senior
Entry
$73,163
Mid-Level
$97,550
Senior
$131,693
Based on U.S. national data (BLS)

Skills Employers Look For

In the United States, skills like Patient Care, Clinical Assessment, Medication Administration, Electronic Health Records, and CPR/BLS are crucial for Licensed Practical Nurses. These skills are valued in the market as they ensure efficient patient care delivery, accurate assessment, and adherence to healthcare protocols.

Most valued skills
Patient Care
Medication Administration
Wound Care
Healthcare Collaboration
Additional skills that give candidates an edge
Clinical Assessment
Electronic Health Records
CPR/BLS
listen actively
promote inclusion

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about the Licensed Practical Nurse job market — United States.

The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse in the United States varies based on factors such as experience, location, and industry sector. Hospitals and long-term care facilities tend to offer higher salaries, with opportunities for career advancement impacting compensation.

In the United States, skills like Patient Care, Medication Administration, and Healthcare Collaboration are highly sought after for Licensed Practical Nurses. Industry trends emphasizing patient-centered care and interdisciplinary collaboration drive the demand for these skills.

The career outlook for Licensed Practical Nurses in the United States is promising, with a projected growth of 6%. Factors such as population aging, increasing chronic conditions, and the expanding role of LPNs in primary care contribute to positive industry trends.

The job market for Licensed Practical Nurses in the United States can be competitive due to the balance between candidate supply and demand. Employers often seek candidates with relevant experience, advanced certifications, and a strong track record of patient care quality.

This data stems from a blend of official labor statistics like BLS and O*NET, paired with AI-driven market analysis that delves into salary surveys, employer preferences, and emerging hiring patterns. The methodology ensures a comprehensive view of the LPN market landscape.

To enhance your prospects as a Licensed Practical Nurse in the United States, focus on gaining specialized certifications like ACLS and PALS, cultivate strong communication skills for healthcare collaboration, and seek practical experience in diverse clinical settings.
This site incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor/ETA. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. | U.S. employment statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics | Skills data from ESCO