LPN salary in Iowa
The median LPN in Iowa earned $62,630 a year in 2025, $1,770 (3%) below the $64,400 national median. That ranks 32nd of 51 states.
- Median yearly pay
- $62,630
- Average yearly pay
- $63,420
- Employed in Iowa
- 5,510
How Iowa 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 Iowa
| Role | Median yearly pay | Employed |
|---|---|---|
| Registered nurse | $78,630 | 34,420 |
| LPN or LVN | $62,630 | 5,510 |
| Nurse practitioner | $130,160 | 3,240 |
A nurse practitioner in Iowa earns a median $51,530 more than a registered nurse ($130,160 against $78,630). A registered nurse earns a median $16,000 more than an LPN or LVN here ($78,630 against $62,630).
Next steps
Common questions
How much does an LPN or LVN make in Iowa?
The median is $62,630 a year, according to BLS data for May 2025. Half of licensed practical and vocational nurses in Iowa earn more and half earn less.
Is Iowa a high-paying state for licensed practical and vocational nurses?
Iowa ranks 32nd of 51 states on median pay for this job. The national median is $64,400, so Iowa pays 3% below it. The highest median is $83,150 in Washington.
How many licensed practical and vocational nurses work in Iowa?
BLS counted 5,510 licensed practical and vocational nurses employed in Iowa 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 Iowa the average is $63,420, $790 above the median.
What do you need to work as an LPN or LVN in Iowa?
Iowa requires a practical nursing certificate or diploma and a passing NCLEX-PN score, and a state license.