LPN vs. RN Salaries: The Nursing Credential Wage Gap

The nursing profession has a clear credential hierarchy — Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) hold a different level of licensure than Registered Nurses (RNs), and the wage gap between them in BLS data reflects the difference in education, scope of practice, and clinical responsibility.

Education Requirements

LPNs complete a 12–18 month practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. RNs complete a 2-year (ADN) or 4-year (BSN) nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN. The additional education and broader scope of practice for RNs commands a significant wage premium.

Scope of Practice

LPNs provide basic patient care under the supervision of RNs and physicians. RNs can administer medications independently, perform more complex assessments, and supervise LPNs. This scope difference is the primary justification for the wage gap — and why employers value the RN credential for most acute care roles.

Where LPNs Are Most Employed

LPNs are most heavily employed in skilled nursing facilities (nursing homes), long-term care, and home health — settings where their scope of practice is appropriate and where the cost of RN staffing would be prohibitive at current wages.

Geographic Variation

Alaska, California, and Nevada show the highest LPN wages nationally. Browse both RN and LPN wages to compare across all states.