2024 Data

Licensed Practical Nurse Salary in Atlanta, GA: $60,076 (2024)

Official 2024 BLS Data | $28.88/hour | $39,507 - $87,006 range

Median Annual Salary

$60,076

0.6% vs national

Hourly Rate

$28.88

/hour

Jobs in Area

636

employed

Salary Range$39,507 - $87,006
10th %Median90th %
Data from Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) | Editorial guidelines

Compare to Other Cities

See All →

Atlanta, GA

$60,076

San Jose, CA

$82,159

$22,083 more (+36.8%)

in San Jose, CA

Licensed Practical Nurse Salary Range in Atlanta, GA

Annual Salary Range

$60k

$40k

10th percentile

$48k

25th

$71k

75th

$87k

90th percentile

Salary Breakdown by Percentile

PercentileAnnual SalaryHourly Rate
10th Percentile (Entry Level)$39,507$18.99
25th Percentile$48,367$23.25
Median (50th Percentile)$60,076$28.88
75th Percentile$70,692$33.99
90th Percentile (Top Earners)$87,006$41.83
Average (Mean)$65,699$31.59

Licensed Practical Nurse Market Insights for Atlanta, GA

Compensation Overview

Licensed Practical Nurse compensation in Atlanta, GA aligns with regional expectations. The salary range from $39,507 to $87,006 provides a clear picture of earning potential at different career stages.

Local Market Context

Atlanta, GA offers competitive compensation that aligns closely with national benchmarks. The Georgia economy supports a diverse range of industries, providing stable employment opportunities across multiple sectors.

Career Outlook

The Licensed Practical Nurse profession offers diverse career opportunities across industries. Professional development and continuous learning are key factors in advancing within this field. With a 120% salary range from entry-level to top earners, there is substantial room for financial growth as you advance in your career.

Tips for Increasing Your Salary

  • Develop specialized expertise to command higher compensation—top earners make 45% more than median salaries
  • Build a professional network through industry associations and local business groups
  • Pursue relevant certifications or advanced education to demonstrate expertise

+1%

vs National Avg

-6%

vs State Avg

120%

Salary Range

636

Jobs in Area

Career Path & Salary Progression

Typical Licensed Practical Nurse salary growth in Atlanta, GA based on experience level.

🎓

Entry Level

0-2 years

10th percentile

$39,507

/year

📈

Early Career

2-5 years

25th percentile

$48,367

/year

💼

Mid Career

5-10 years

50th percentile

$60,076

/year

🎯

Senior

10-15 years

75th percentile

$70,692

/year

Expert

15+ years

90th percentile

$87,006

/year

Next Career Steps

Common career progressions from Licensed Practical Nurse:

Note: Career progression and salary growth vary based on company size, industry, skills, and performance. These estimates use percentile data from the BLS as a general guide for typical career paths.

Licensed Practical Nurse Job Market in Atlanta, GA

Where Licensed Practical Nurses Work

Licensed Practical Nurses work across multiple industries including corporations, government agencies, healthcare organizations, and consulting firms. Each sector offers different compensation structures and career trajectories.

Local Employment Landscape

Employment in this occupation is more limited in Atlanta, GA compared to larger metros. Professionals may find opportunities concentrated among fewer employers, making employer research and networking particularly valuable.

Types of Employers Hiring

Large Corporations

Typically offer comprehensive benefits, structured advancement, and competitive base salaries with bonus potential

Small to Medium Businesses

May provide more responsibility earlier in your career, flexible work arrangements, and equity opportunities

Government Agencies

Known for job security, excellent benefits packages, pension plans, and work-life balance

Professional Services Firms

Provide client exposure, rapid skill development, and often above-market compensation for top performers

Skills That Increase Earning Potential

Advanced certifications in your specialtyLeadership and team managementData analysis and reportingCommunication and presentation skillsIndustry-specific software proficiency

Job Search Strategy for Atlanta, GA

  • Research major employers in the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Alpharetta area and follow them on LinkedIn for job alerts
  • Join local professional associations for networking and job leads specific to Georgia
  • Tailor your salary expectations based on the Atlanta, GA market rate of $60,076
  • Consider roles at varying experience levels—entry positions start at $39,507 in this market

Licensed Practical Nurse Career Overview in Atlanta, GA

Local Employment
636
positions
Median Salary
$60,076
per year
vs National
+1%
difference
COL Index
101.8
100 = average

The job market for Licensed Practical Nurses in Atlanta, GA is moderate, with approximately 636 professionals employed across the metropolitan area. This represents a growing presence of Licensed Practical Nurse positions, reflecting the region's economic base and employer diversity in Atlanta, GA. Compensation aligns closely with national benchmarks, indicating a balanced supply-demand dynamic in this market.

Atlanta, GA's diverse economy supports healthcare roles across multiple sectors including healthcare, education, government, technology, manufacturing, and professional services. Major employers in Georgia range from large corporations and hospital systems to mid-size regional firms and growing startups. This employer diversity provides career stability and mobility, as professionals can advance their careers without necessarily relocating. The mix of public and private sector opportunities also creates varied compensation structures, with some employers offering lower base salaries but stronger benefits and job security.

The growth outlook for Licensed Practical Nurse positions in Atlanta, GA is projected to remain stable with opportunities tied to local economic growth and industry trends. With 636 current positions and a median salary of $60,076, the market provides a solid foundation for career development. Professionals who invest in continuing education and stay current with industry developments position themselves for both job security and upward salary mobility. The combination of Atlanta, GA's economic trajectory and broader industry trends suggests that qualified Licensed Practical Nurses will continue to find opportunities in this market over the coming years.

Atlanta, GA offers a balanced proposition for Licensed Practical Nurses. The cost of living index of 101.8 sits near the national average, meaning the median salary of $60,076 translates to real purchasing power that closely matches the nominal figure. This makes salary comparisons with other similarly-priced metros straightforward. Licensed Practical Nurses evaluating Atlanta, GA against peer cities should focus on factors beyond raw salary numbers, including career growth opportunities, industry specialization, commute quality, and lifestyle fit.

The Healthcare field in Atlanta, GA benefits from the region's broader economic ecosystem. Local industry associations, professional networking groups, and continuing education opportunities through area universities and community colleges help Licensed Practical Nurses stay connected and advance their careers. Georgia's business incentive programs and workforce development initiatives also play a role in attracting employers and creating positions. For Licensed Practical Nurses early in their career, Atlanta, GA offers the chance to build a professional network in a market where individual contributions are often more visible than in the largest metros, potentially accelerating career progression.

Licensed Practical Nurse Compensation Deep Dive in Atlanta, GA

Entry LevelMedianTop Earners
$39,507$60,076$87,006

The salary range for Licensed Practical Nurses in Atlanta, GA spans from $39,507 at the entry level (10th percentile) to $87,006 for top earners (90th percentile), a spread of $47,499. This 120% differential reflects the significant impact that experience, specialization, credentials, and employer type have on compensation in this field. The median salary of $60,076 sits at the midpoint of the market, representing what a Licensed Practical Nurse with moderate experience and standard qualifications can expect. The 25th percentile ($48,367) typically corresponds to early-career professionals with 1-3 years of experience, while the 75th percentile ($70,692) reflects seasoned professionals with specialized skills or management responsibilities.

Base salary tells only part of the compensation story for Licensed Practical Nurses in Atlanta, GA. Total compensation packages commonly include health insurance (valued at $6,000-$15,000 annually for employer contributions), retirement plan matching (typically 3-6% of salary, worth $2,403 per year at the median), paid time off (averaging 15-20 days), and in some cases performance bonuses, stock options, or professional development allowances. When evaluating job offers, Licensed Practical Nurses should request a total compensation breakdown. A position paying $48,367 with strong benefits may deliver more value than one paying $60,076 with minimal perks.

Cost of living directly impacts how far a Licensed Practical Nurse's salary goes in Atlanta, GA. With a local cost-of-living index of 101.8 (where 100 equals the national average), the median salary of $60,076 provides purchasing power equivalent to approximately $59,014 in an average-cost U.S. city. This balanced cost environment means the salary figure closely reflects actual purchasing power, simplifying financial planning and comparisons with other mid-range markets.

Negotiating Licensed Practical Nurse compensation in Atlanta, GA requires market awareness. The gap between the 25th and 75th percentiles ($48,367 to $70,692) represents the most common negotiation range. Candidates with in-demand certifications, niche expertise, or competing offers have the strongest leverage. In this market, salaries track national norms, and well-prepared candidates can typically move offers 5-10% above the initial number. Asking for a salary review after 6-12 months, signing bonuses, or additional PTO are effective alternatives when base salary flexibility is limited. On an hourly basis, Licensed Practical Nurses in this market earn between $19 and $42 per hour, with the median at $29.

Licensed Practical Nurse Career Path & Growth in Atlanta, GA

Entry
$39,507
Early Career
$48,367
Mid Career
$60,076
Experienced
$70,692
Senior
$87,006

The career trajectory for Licensed Practical Nurses in Atlanta, GA shows significant earning potential over time. Entry-level professionals start around $39,507, while top earners reach $87,006, representing a 2.2x increase from start to peak. This progression typically unfolds over 10-20 years and is driven by accumulating expertise, taking on leadership responsibilities, developing specializations, and building a professional reputation. In Atlanta, GA's healthcare market, professionals who demonstrate consistent performance improvements and take on increasingly complex projects advance most quickly. Mid-career transitions into management, consulting, or entrepreneurship can also accelerate earnings beyond the standard progression curve.

Licensed Practical Nurses in Atlanta, GA who are exploring career pivots or complementary roles should consider positions such as related professionals in the same field, supervisory roles, and cross-functional positions. These adjacent occupations often share transferable skills and can offer different compensation structures, work environments, or growth trajectories. In Atlanta, GA's job market, professionals who develop cross-functional capabilities spanning multiple related roles tend to be more resilient to market shifts and better positioned for leadership opportunities. Lateral moves can also provide valuable perspective that strengthens a professional's long-term career trajectory.

The skills most in demand for Licensed Practical Nurses in Atlanta, GA include industry-specific technical competencies, communication and collaboration skills, analytical thinking, and adaptability to new tools and processes. Employers in Atlanta, GA value professionals who combine deep subject-matter expertise with the ability to work effectively across teams and adapt to evolving industry requirements. Pursuing relevant professional certifications can provide a measurable salary boost of 5-15% and signal commitment to the field. Continuous learning through industry conferences, online courses, and professional associations helps Licensed Practical Nurses stay competitive in Atlanta, GA's evolving job market.

More Questions About Licensed Practical Nurse Salaries in Atlanta, GA

What is the starting salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse in Atlanta, GA?

Entry-level Licensed Practical Nurses in Atlanta, GA (10th percentile) earn approximately $39,507 per year, or about $3,292 per month. The 25th percentile, representing early-career professionals with some experience, earns $48,367. These figures reflect base salary only; new hires may also receive benefits worth an additional 20-30% of base pay. Building specialized skills and pursuing relevant certifications are the fastest paths to moving beyond entry-level compensation.

How much do experienced Licensed Practical Nurses make in Atlanta, GA?

Experienced Licensed Practical Nurses at the 75th percentile earn $70,692 annually in Atlanta, GA, while top earners at the 90th percentile make $87,006. The jump from median ($60,076) to 75th percentile represents a 18% increase, typically achieved through 5-10 years of experience, management responsibilities, or specialized expertise. Senior professionals who combine technical depth with leadership skills are best positioned for top-tier compensation.

Is Atlanta, GA a good city for Licensed Practical Nurses?

Atlanta, GA offers competitive compensation that closely tracks national averages. With 636 Licensed Practical Nurse positions in the metro area, the market is smaller but can offer less competition and more personal career development. Quality of life, industry presence, and long-term career trajectory should all factor into your evaluation alongside salary data.

How does Licensed Practical Nurse pay in Atlanta, GA compare to the national average?

The median Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Atlanta, GA is $60,076, which is 1% higher than the national median of $59,730. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective purchasing power is $59,014, which provides a more accurate comparison. Within Georgia, Atlanta, GA ranks below some peer metros for this occupation.

What benefits do Licensed Practical Nurses typically receive in Atlanta, GA?

Beyond base salary, Licensed Practical Nurses in Atlanta, GA typically receive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement contributions (401k matching of 3-6%), paid time off (15-25 days annually), and sometimes performance bonuses or profit sharing. The total value of benefits often adds 25-35% on top of base salary, meaning a Licensed Practical Nurse earning the median of $60,076 may receive total compensation of $78,099 or more. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement, professional development budgets, flexible work arrangements, and wellness programs.

What skills are most in demand for Licensed Practical Nurses in Atlanta, GA?

Licensed Practical Nurses in Atlanta, GA who command the highest salaries typically combine core technical competencies with strong communication skills, analytical thinking, adaptability, and a commitment to professional development. Employers in this market particularly value professionals who can demonstrate measurable impact, whether through revenue generation, cost savings, process improvements, or team leadership. Certifications relevant to the Healthcare field can increase earning potential by 5-15%. Staying current with industry trends and emerging technologies is essential for career advancement and salary growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

The median licensed practical nurse salary in Atlanta, GA is $60,076 per year ($28.88/hour) as of 2026. This is based on official U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Salaries range from $39,507 for entry-level positions to $87,006 for experienced professionals in the top 10%.

Entry-level licensed practical nurses in Atlanta, GA typically start at around $39,507 per year ($18.99/hour), representing the 10th percentile. New graduates and those with less than 2 years of experience fall into this range. With experience and skill development, salaries can progress to the median of $60,076 within 3-5 years.

Licensed Practical Nurses in Atlanta, GA earn a median hourly wage of $28.88 per hour. Hourly rates range from $18.99/hour at entry-level (10th percentile) to $41.83/hour for top earners (90th percentile). Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, this translates to annual salaries between $39,507 and $87,006.

The median licensed practical nurse salary of $60,076 in Atlanta, GA is above the national median of $59,730 (0.6% higher). This salary places you at the 50th percentile, meaning half of licensed practical nurses in the area earn more and half earn less.

Licensed Practical Nurses in Atlanta, GA earn above the national average. The local median salary of $60,076 is 0.6% higher than the national median of $59,730. When adjusted for cost of living, the effective salary is approximately $59,014.

The top 10% of licensed practical nurses in Atlanta, GA earn $87,006 or more per year ($41.83/hour). These top earners typically have 10+ years of experience, advanced certifications, specialized expertise, or hold senior/management positions. The 75th percentile earns $70,692, which is a realistic goal for mid-career professionals.

Key skills that can boost licensed practical nurse salary in Atlanta, GA include: Strong communication and interpersonal abilities, Problem-solving and critical thinking, Technical proficiency relevant to the field, Attention to detail and organizational skills. Professionals with these skills often earn above the median of $60,076, potentially reaching the 75th percentile ($70,692) or higher. Years of relevant experience

Atlanta, GA has a moderate job market for licensed practical nurses, with approximately 636 professionals employed in the area. The median salary of $60,076 is above the national average. Job seekers should consider both salary and local industry demand when evaluating opportunities.

Compare your licensed practical nurse salary to these Atlanta, GA benchmarks: 10th percentile (entry-level): $39,507, 25th percentile: $48,367, 50th percentile (median): $60,076, 75th percentile: $70,692, 90th percentile (top earners): $87,006. If you earn more than $60,076, you're above average for the area.

Beyond the $60,076 median base salary, licensed practical nurses in Atlanta, GA typically receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement plans (401k with employer matching), paid time off (15-25 days), and potentially bonuses or profit-sharing. Total compensation including benefits typically adds 25-40% to base salary value.

Experienced licensed practical nurses with 5-10 years in Atlanta, GA typically earn $70,692 (75th percentile) to $87,006 (90th percentile) per year. Senior professionals with 10+ years, certifications, or management roles can reach the top 10% at $87,006. Mid-career professionals (3-5 years) usually earn around the median of $60,076.

Licensed Practical Nurses in Atlanta, GA can see significant salary growth over their careers. Entry-level ($39,507) to median ($60,076) typically takes 3-5 years. Reaching the 90th percentile ($87,006) may take 10+ years and often requires specialized skills, certifications, or leadership experience. That's a potential growth of $47,499 over a career.

Data Source & Methodology

Official government statistics you can trust

Primary Source

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Program

Visit Official BLS Website

Data Year

2024

2 Years Old

Geographic Area

Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Alpharetta

Metropolitan Statistical Area

Occupation Code

29-2061

SOC Classification

Sample Size

636

Employees Surveyed

How This Data Is Collected

The OEWS program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations across all metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. Approximately 1.1 million establishments are surveyed over a three-year period, representing the most comprehensive wage data available for the U.S. labor market.

Note: Percentile wages represent actual reported wages and may differ from individual compensation packages that include benefits, bonuses, and equity.

Last updated: January 23, 2026

Salary Calculator

Licensed Practical Nurse in Atlanta, GA

$/yr

Enter your salary above to see how you compare

Median: $60,076/yr

How Atlanta, GA Compares

vs National Average

$59,730

+0.6%

vs Georgia Average

$63,705

-5.7%

Cost-of-Living Adjusted

$59,014

-1.8%

Cost of living in Atlanta, GA is 1.8% above the national average.

Highest Paying Cities

See which cities pay Licensed Practical Nurses the most.

View Top 10 Cities

Licensed Practical Nurse Jobs in Atlanta, GA

Find open positions and apply today.

View Jobs on Indeed

Affiliate link