Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses Salary in Sacramento, CA
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom, CA
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In Sacramento, CA, licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses (LPN/LVNs) earn a median annual salary of $79,460, which is notably higher than the national median for the same occupation at $62,340. This salary translates to a median hourly wage of $38.20. When compared to the local area's median household income of $93,986, LPN/LVNs in Sacramento earn slightly less on average than the typical household, though their earnings are competitive within healthcare roles in the region. The higher earning potential for nurses in this locality reflects a robust demand for healthcare services, supported by an estimated employment base of 4,350 positions and a relatively low local unemployment rate of 4.70%.
Entry-level LPN/LVNs in Sacramento start with salaries around the 10th percentile at $64,550 annually, while those with more experience can earn up to or beyond the 90th percentile of $101,300 per year. The disparity in earnings is influenced by several factors including years of experience, specialization within nursing roles, and additional certifications. Nurses early in their careers typically fall closer to the lower quartile at around $74,680 annually, whereas experienced professionals can approach or surpass the 75th percentile at $94,660. This progression underscores the value of accumulated expertise and specialized skills in advancing salary potential over time.
Salary percentile breakdown
Sacramento economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses make per hour in Sacramento?
The median hourly wage for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses in Sacramento, CA is $38.20, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $50.42 or more per hour.
Is Sacramento above or below average for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses salaries?
The median Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses salary in Sacramento, CA is 27.5% above the national median of $62,340. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses in Sacramento?
Entry-level Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses (10th percentile) earn around $64,550 per year in Sacramento, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $74,680.