LPN vs RN Salary

To understand the difference in LPN vs. RN Salary ranges, you must first understand the difference in the job description and scope of practice between an LPN and an RN. You may be trying to determine a career path and deciding between pursuing the different education requirements of an LPN and an RN.

LPN vs RN Salary

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the LPN vs RN salary had quite a pay gap. The median pay for an RN in 2020 was $75,330 per year. The median pay for LPNs was $48,820 per year – a difference of over $25,000 per year.

For both LPNs and RNs, the basic fundamentals of nursing are the same. However, the scope of practice is different, therefore increasing the pay for RN’s.

The Difference Between an RN and LPN

The first main difference between an RN and an LPN is the educational requirements. An LPN certificate may be acquired in as little time as a year. An RN with an Associates’ degree can take 2-3 years, or a BSN will take 4. The basic skill set is the same; however, the knowledge of an RN is more vast.

LPNs work under the supervision of an RN. LPNs cannot interpret data or make active decisions for patient care. They must report their findings to the RN or a doctor. The LPN cannot assess and proceed in a certain direction without the permission of a supervising RN or advanced care provider.

RNs can specialize in certain areas of nursing and command higher salaries for their specialized knowledge. Also, many hospitals will not hire LPNs to work in critical care or in the ER.

LPN vs RN Salary Determined by Years of Experience and Industry

As nurses gain more experience and time in their careers, they can expect their salaries to rise. Just as RNs command a higher overall salary, they also start out earning more than LPNs. As for both RNs and LPNs, the pay will differ by the work environment.