LPN salary in California
The median LPN in California earned $79,750 a year in 2025, $15,350 (24%) above the $64,400 national median. That ranks 6th of 51 states.
- Median yearly pay
- $79,750
- Average yearly pay
- $82,340
- Employed in California
- 82,850
How California compares
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, state estimates. Pay is before tax and does not adjust for cost of living, which is higher in some states than others.
Nursing pay in California
| Role | Median yearly pay | Employed |
|---|---|---|
| Registered nurse | $140,270 | 338,940 |
| LPN or LVN | $79,750 | 82,850 |
| Nurse practitioner | $168,520 | 25,120 |
A nurse practitioner in California earns a median $28,250 more than a registered nurse ($168,520 against $140,270). A registered nurse earns a median $60,520 more than an LPN or LVN here ($140,270 against $79,750).
Next steps
Common questions
How much does an LPN or LVN make in California?
The median is $79,750 a year, according to BLS data for May 2025. Half of licensed practical and vocational nurses in California earn more and half earn less.
Is California a high-paying state for licensed practical and vocational nurses?
California ranks 6th of 51 states on median pay for this job. The national median is $64,400, so California pays 24% above it. The highest median is $83,150 in Washington.
How many licensed practical and vocational nurses work in California?
BLS counted 82,850 licensed practical and vocational nurses employed in California in May 2025.
Why is the average different from the median?
The median is the middle wage: half of workers earn less. The average adds every wage and divides, so a few very high earners pull it up. In California the average is $82,340, $2,590 above the median.
What do you need to work as an LPN or LVN in California?
California requires a practical nursing certificate or diploma and a passing NCLEX-PN score, with a license from the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN).