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RN vs LVN Nursing License

Average Salary
$81,220
RN
vs
$54,620
LVN
Job Growth
6%
RN
vs
5%
LVN
Workforce
3.1M+
RN
vs
650K+
LVN

Side-by-Side Comparison

Category RN LVN
Average Salary $81,220 $54,620
Workforce Size
Larger workforce = more job opportunities
3.1M+ 650K+
Job Growth Rate 6% 5%
Certification Exam NCLEX-RN NCLEX-PN
Multi-State Compact Yes Yes

Key Differences

Salary

RNs earn $26,600 more per year on average than LVNs.

Winner: RN

Job Growth

RN is growing at 6%, indicating stronger demand.

Winner: RN

Category Winners

Higher Salary
RN $81,220
vs LVN ($54,620)
Faster Growth
RN 6%
vs LVN (5%)
Larger Workforce
RN 3.1M+
vs LVN (650K+)

Registered Nurse

Registered Nurses (RNs) provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients about health conditions, and provide advice and emotional support.

View RN state requirements →

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 →

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Compare specific state requirements for each profession.

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