LPNs in the US earn a median of $64,400 a year in base pay. The middle half earn between $59,000 and $76,030, and the top 10% earn more than $83,440 (BLS OEWS May 2025). To negotiate, aim for the part of that range that matches your experience — with 3–5 years, for example, $64,000 to $76,000 — and open slightly above it.
How much do LPNs make?
| Percentile | Annual base pay |
|---|---|
| 10th | $49,740 |
| 25th | $59,000 |
| Median | $64,400 |
| 75th | $76,030 |
| 90th | $83,440 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025 — Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses, national, about 648,410 jobs. BLS figures are base pay including commissions and production bonuses; they exclude year-end bonuses, stock, overtime and benefits.
Where LPNs earn the most
| State | Median | 75th percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | $83,150 | $93,970 |
| Alaska | $80,800 | $87,380 |
| Oregon | $80,470 | $90,690 |
| Massachusetts | $80,220 | $84,570 |
| Rhode Island | $80,090 | $81,170 |
Pay also differs within a state — big metro areas often pay more. Use your state's numbers when you set your target.
What should you ask for as a licensed practical nurse?
| Experience | Suggested target range | Open with about |
|---|---|---|
| 0–2 years | $59,000–$64,000 | $67,000 |
| 3–5 years | $64,000–$76,000 | $80,000 |
| 6–10 years | $69,000–$79,000 | $83,000 |
| 10+ years | $76,000–$83,000 | $87,000 |
The ranges follow national percentiles by experience (25th–50th, 50th–75th, 60th–80th, 75th–90th); the opening number is the top of the range plus about 5%, rounded. Guidance, not a guarantee — check your state and experience, and see how to negotiate salary.
What drives licensed practical nurse pay?
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) give basic nursing care under the direction of registered nurses and physicians, often in long-term care, clinics and home health. Pay is usually hourly and depends on the setting, shift and the certifications you hold, such as IV therapy where allowed.
- Setting: long-term care, rehab, home health, clinics, hospitals.
- Shift and weekend differentials.
- Certifications such as IV therapy or wound care.
- Agency versus staff positions.
Your leverage as a licensed practical nurse
- IV certification or other skills the facility needs.
- Willingness to take nights, weekends or doubles.
- Charge nurse experience in long-term care.
- Experience with the facility's EHR.
- Low turnover risk — you plan to stay.
Only use leverage you really have. Never invent a competing offer.
Licensed practical nurse objections and how to answer
| They say | You can say |
|---|---|
| “Our LPN rate is set for everyone.” | “Is there a different rate for charge LPNs or IV-certified LPNs?” |
| “Agency rates aren't comparable.” | “I'm not asking for agency pay — I'm asking for a staff rate that matches my experience.” |
| “You'll get a raise after your first review.” | “Could we set that review at 90 days and agree on the amount now?” |
| “Night differential is all we can add.” | “Then I'd like the base to reflect my [number] years and IV certification.” |
Sample counter offer for a licensed practical nurse
Thanks for the offer. With my [number] years in [setting], IV certification and charge experience, I'm asking for [hourly rate] plus the night differential. The national median for LPNs is $64,400 a year.
Then stop talking and let them respond.
Asking for a raise as a licensed practical nurse
Charge roles and certifications are the usual levers. Many LPNs also plan a bridge to RN — ask whether the employer offers tuition support.