LPN salary in South Dakota
The median LPN in South Dakota earned $52,750 a year in 2025, $11,650 (18%) below the $64,400 national median. That ranks 50th of 51 states.
- Median yearly pay
- $52,750
- Average yearly pay
- $54,990
- Employed in South Dakota
- 2,050
How South Dakota 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 South Dakota
| Role | Median yearly pay | Employed |
|---|---|---|
| Registered nurse | $78,060 | 14,710 |
| LPN or LVN | $52,750 | 2,050 |
| Nurse practitioner | $128,840 | 1,020 |
A nurse practitioner in South Dakota earns a median $50,780 more than a registered nurse ($128,840 against $78,060). A registered nurse earns a median $25,310 more than an LPN or LVN here ($78,060 against $52,750).
Next steps
Common questions
How much does an LPN or LVN make in South Dakota?
The median is $52,750 a year, according to BLS data for May 2025. Half of licensed practical and vocational nurses in South Dakota earn more and half earn less.
Is South Dakota a high-paying state for licensed practical and vocational nurses?
South Dakota ranks 50th of 51 states on median pay for this job. The national median is $64,400, so South Dakota pays 18% below it. The highest median is $83,150 in Washington.
How many licensed practical and vocational nurses work in South Dakota?
BLS counted 2,050 licensed practical and vocational nurses employed in South Dakota 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 South Dakota the average is $54,990, $2,240 above the median.
What do you need to work as an LPN or LVN in South Dakota?
South Dakota requires a practical nursing certificate or diploma and a passing NCLEX-PN score, and a state license.