LPN salary in Tennessee
The median LPN in Tennessee earned $58,870 a year in 2025, $5,530 (9%) below the $64,400 national median. That ranks 44th of 51 states.
- Median yearly pay
- $58,870
- Average yearly pay
- $56,470
- Employed in Tennessee
- 20,830
How Tennessee 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 Tennessee
| Role | Median yearly pay | Employed |
|---|---|---|
| Registered nurse | $81,500 | 72,200 |
| LPN or LVN | $58,870 | 20,830 |
| Nurse practitioner | $117,590 | 12,150 |
A nurse practitioner in Tennessee earns a median $36,090 more than a registered nurse ($117,590 against $81,500). A registered nurse earns a median $22,630 more than an LPN or LVN here ($81,500 against $58,870).
Next steps
Common questions
How much does an LPN or LVN make in Tennessee?
The median is $58,870 a year, according to BLS data for May 2025. Half of licensed practical and vocational nurses in Tennessee earn more and half earn less.
Is Tennessee a high-paying state for licensed practical and vocational nurses?
Tennessee ranks 44th of 51 states on median pay for this job. The national median is $64,400, so Tennessee pays 9% below it. The highest median is $83,150 in Washington.
How many licensed practical and vocational nurses work in Tennessee?
BLS counted 20,830 licensed practical and vocational nurses employed in Tennessee 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 Tennessee the average is $56,470.
What do you need to work as an LPN or LVN in Tennessee?
Tennessee requires a practical nursing certificate or diploma and a passing NCLEX-PN score, and a state license.