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LVN vs CNS Nursing License

Average Salary
$54,620
LVN
vs
$106,020
CNS
Job Growth
5%
LVN
vs
9%
CNS
Workforce
650K+
LVN
vs
72K+
CNS

Side-by-Side Comparison

Category LVN CNS
Average Salary $54,620 $106,020
Workforce Size
Larger workforce = more job opportunities
650K+ 72K+
Job Growth Rate 5% 9%
Certification Exam NCLEX-PN CNS Certification Exam
Multi-State Compact Yes Yes

Key Differences

Salary

CNSs earn $51,400 more per year on average than LVNs.

Winner: CNS

Job Growth

CNS is growing at 9%, indicating stronger demand.

Winner: CNS

Category Winners

Higher Salary
CNS $106,020
vs LVN ($54,620)
Faster Growth
CNS 9%
vs LVN (5%)
Larger Workforce
LVN 650K+
vs CNS (72K+)

Licensed Vocational Nurse

Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) provide basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians. Also known as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in most states.

View LVN state requirements →

Clinical Nurse Specialist

Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) are advanced practice registered nurses who specialize in a particular area of nursing practice and serve as clinical experts, educators, and consultants.

View CNS state requirements →

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