Average Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses Salary in Merced, CA
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses in Merced, CA, can expect an average annual salary of $70,980. This figure notably surpasses the national average of $64,450, indicating a favorable compensation landscape for these essential healthcare professionals within the region. Local demand and specific healthcare needs likely contribute to this elevated pay scale.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $70,980 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 35.7% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $78,430.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 270 Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses, Merced, CA, presents a stable employment environment. The Location Quotient of 0.84 suggests a concentration slightly below the national average, implying a steady but not oversaturated demand for these professionals. The presence of 3.46 jobs per 1,000 workers further underscores a consistent need for LPNs in the area.
Salary Overview
The average Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses in Merced, CA earns+10.1%above the national average.
$34.1
$1,365
$5,915
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Merced is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Increased demand for healthcare services, evolving scope of practice, and inflation typically drive upward salary adjustments for nursing professionals.
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses Salary Distribution in Merced, CA
Salary progression for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses in Merced, CA, typically correlates with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower percentiles, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and specialized skills can command salaries in the upper percentiles. The widening gap between entry-level and senior roles signifies substantial career advancement opportunities and earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $60,510 | $29.1 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $53,235 | $25.6 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $71,430 | $34.3 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $88,725 | $42.7 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $78,430 | $37.7 |
Detailed Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$70,980
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$70,980
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $70,980 in Merced, CA, aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is equivalent to the national average. This means that the purchasing power of an LPN's salary in Merced is on par with the national standard, offering a balanced financial environment for residents.
Job Market Context
270
Total Jobs
3.46
Per 1K Jobs
0.84
Location Quotient
Merced, CA has 0.84x the national average concentration of Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
Merced, CA, has a Location Quotient of 0.84 for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses, indicating a slightly lower concentration of these professionals compared to the national average. This suggests that while the market is not exceptionally saturated, there is a consistent demand for LPNs, making it a moderately competitive yet accessible job market for qualified individuals.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Modesto, CA Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses Salary | $75,510↑ 6% | 37 mi |
| Fresno, CA Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses Salary | $73,600↑ 4% | 52 mi |
| Stockton-Lodi, CA Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses Salary | $76,180↑ 7% | 65 mi |
| Salinas, CA Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses Salary | $79,580↑ 12% | 77 mi |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses Salary | $91,650↑ 29% | 77 mi |
Comparing salaries near Merced, CA
Hiring Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nursess?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses make in Merced, CA?
The median annual salary for a Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses in Merced, CA is $70,980. This typically ranges from $60,510 for entry-level positions to $78,430 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Merced, CA is 10.1% higher than the national median of $64,450.
Is Merced, CA a lucrative place for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses?
Yes, Merced, CA offers lucrative opportunities for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses.The average salary of $70,980 significantly exceeds the national average, and the cost of living is precisely at the national average, enhancing the real value of this compensation.
Is Merced, CA a good place to live for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses?
The Cost of Living Index in Merced, CA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Merced, CA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Modesto, CA ($75,510) and Fresno, CA.
How does the LPN salary in Merced compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses in Merced, CA, is $70,980, which is higher than the national average of $64,450.
What is the cost of living in Merced, CA for LPNs?
Merced, CA, has a Cost of Living Index of 100, meaning it is exactly on par with the national average, making the $70,980 salary quite competitive in terms of purchasing power.
Is there high demand for LPNs in Merced, CA?
With 3.46 jobs per 1,000 workers and a Location Quotient of 0.84, there is a steady demand for LPNs in Merced, CA, indicating a stable job market.
How does experience affect LPN salaries in Merced, CA?
Experience plays a significant role, with entry-level LPNs earning less, while senior nurses with specialized skills can command higher salaries, reflecting career progression and increased earning potential.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 270 employees in the Merced, CA area with a job density of 3.46 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Merced, CA