Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Akron, OH

The Salary Picture: Where Akron Stands

If you're an LPN looking at Akron, you're looking at a solid, stable market. The numbers tell a story of a region that values healthcare but doesn't have the explosive (and often expensive) growth of a major coastal hub. It's a place where your skills are needed, and you can build a life.

Let's get straight to the data. As an LPN in the Akron metro area, the median salary is $53,440 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $25.69 per hour. This is slightly below the national average for LPNs, which sits at $54,620 per year. The difference isn't huge, but it's important context. The key factor that makes Akron attractive is the cost of living, which I'll break down later.

The job market is healthy. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data shows there are approximately 377 jobs for LPNs in the metro area. Over the past decade, the field has seen a 10-year job growth of 5%. This isn't a boomtown surge, but it's steady, reliable demand. Akron's healthcare ecosystem is mature, anchored by major systems, which means jobs are there, but competition can be moderate.

Here’s how salary typically breaks down by experience level in the Akron market. These are estimates based on local job postings and industry trends, reflecting the general progression you can expect.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Estimated Hourly Rate
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$48,000 - $51,000	$23.08 - $24.52
Mid-Career (3-7 years)	$53,440 - $58,000	$25.69 - $27.88
Senior (8-15 years)	$58,000 - $64,000	$27.88 - $30.77
Expert/Specialized (15+ years)	$64,000+	$30.77+

Note: The median salary of $53,440 aligns closely with the mid-career range. Specialized roles (like in wound care, dialysis, or certain surgical specialties) can push you into the higher end of the senior range.

Compare to Other Ohio Cities:
How does Akron stack up against its Ohio peers? It's a middle-ground performer.

• Cleveland Metro: Similar job volume, but slightly higher median salary (approx. $55,000) and a higher cost of living, especially in desirable suburbs.
• Columbus Metro: A larger, faster-growing market with a higher median salary (approx. $55,500), but also a significantly higher cost of living and more competition.
• Cincinnati Metro: Very comparable to Akron in both salary and cost of living, offering a similar balance.
• Toledo/Younstown: These markets often have a slightly lower median salary (by $2,000 - $3,000) and a lower cost of living, but also a smaller job market.

Insider Tip: The real value in Akron isn't just the salary; it's the combination of salary and affordability. A $53,440 salary goes much further here than in Columbus or Cleveland, which is a critical factor for long-term financial stability.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get practical. A median salary of $53,440 sounds good, but what does it mean for your monthly life in Akron? We need to account for taxes and the city's low housing costs.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for an LPN in Akron:

• Gross Monthly Income: $53,440 / 12 = $4,453
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, State, FICA): ~22% (varies by filing status) = -$980
• Estimated Take-Home Pay: $3,473

Now, let's layer in the cost of living. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Akron is approximately $816 per month. The Cost of Living Index for Akron is 92.8 (US average = 100), meaning it's about 7% cheaper than the national average.

Here’s a realistic monthly budget for a single LPN living alone:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$816	Can be lower in some neighborhoods, higher in others.
Utilities	$180	Includes internet. Akron's older housing stock can mean variable heating costs.
Groceries	$350	Based on moderate spending for one person.
Transportation	$250	Car payment/insurance/gas is typical. Public transit (METRO RTA) is an option but limited.
Health Insurance	$150	If employer-sponsored; higher if purchased on marketplace.
Misc./Personal	$400	Dining out, entertainment, gym, savings.
Total Expenses	$2,146
Leftover for Savings/Debt	~$1,327

This budget leaves a healthy $1,327 per month for student loans, retirement savings, or building an emergency fund. This is a very manageable ratio.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
Yes, absolutely. This is where Akron truly shines for a single-income professional. The median home price in the Akron metro area is around $165,000 - $180,000. With a $1,327 monthly surplus, saving for a 5% down payment ($8,250 - $9,000) on a starter home is feasible within 2-3 years of disciplined saving. A monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) on a $170,000 home could be around $1,100 - $1,200, which is very close to the average rent. Homeownership here is a realistic goal, not a distant dream.

Where the Jobs Are: Akron's Major Employers

Akron's healthcare scene is dominated by a few key players, with a strong network of skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and home health agencies. Here’s where to focus your applications:

1. Cleveland Clinic Akron General: A major hub in the city's medical district. They have a full spectrum of care, including a Level III trauma center. Hiring trends show a constant need for LPNs in med-surg, orthopedics, and their emergency department. They are known for robust benefits and tuition reimbursement.

2. Summa Health: Forked into two main campuses (City and Barberton). Summa is a massive employer and often the first stop for new grads. They have a strong network of primary care clinics and a large hospital system. Hiring is steady, especially in their long-term care and rehab units. Insider Tip: Barberton is often slightly less competitive for hiring than the main City campus.

3. Western Reserve Hospital (formerly Cuyahoga Falls General): A community hospital with a strong reputation. It’s a fantastic place to gain experience in a slightly smaller, less chaotic environment than the big two. They often hire LPNs for acute care and skilled nursing.

4. Akron Children's Hospital: While some roles require an RN, they do hire LPNs for specific roles, often in outpatient clinics, school health, and certain inpatient units. If you have a passion for pediatrics, this is a top-tier employer to target.

5. Local Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs): This is a huge sector. Companies like Kindred Healthcare, Genesis Healthcare, and local chains like Newark Nursing Home (in nearby New Philadelphia but serving the region) are always hiring. SNFs offer a different pace and are excellent for building clinical skills. Pay can be very competitive, sometimes exceeding the hospital median.

6. Home Health Agencies: Companies like Interim HealthCare and AccentCare serve the Greater Akron area. This path offers more autonomy and a different work-life balance. You'll need a reliable car and good time management skills.

Hiring Trends: The trend is toward "team nursing" models in hospitals, where LPNs work under RN supervision to manage patient loads. There's also a growing demand in community-based settings—home health, hospice, and outpatient dialysis—as the population ages.

Getting Licensed in OH

If you're moving from another state, you'll need to get licensed in Ohio. The process is straightforward but requires patience.

Requirements:

1. Graduate from an approved LPN program (accredited by the Ohio Board of Nursing).
2. Pass the NCLEX-PN exam.
3. Submit an application for licensure by examination or endorsement to the Ohio Board of Nursing.

Costs:

• NCLEX-PN Exam Fee: $200 (paid to Pearson VUE).
• Ohio Board of Nursing Application Fee: $75 (for licensure by examination) or $100 (for licensure by endorsement).
• Fingerprinting/Criminal Background Check: ~$65 (varies by vendor).
• Total Estimated Cost: $340 - $365.

Timeline:

• For New Graduates (from an OH program): You can apply for a temporary permit to work under supervision while you await your NCLEX results. The entire process, from graduation to holding a license, typically takes 3-6 months.
• For Interstate Endorsement (moving from another state): This can take 8-12 weeks. You must request verification of your license from your original state. Ohio is part of the NLC (Nurse Licensure Compact), so if you hold a multi-state license from another compact state, you can practice in Ohio without a new license. This is a critical detail for compact state nurses.

Best Neighborhoods for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)s

Where you live affects your commute and lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of top areas for healthcare professionals:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg. 1BR Rent	Best For
Fairlawn	Suburban, safe, modern apartments. 15-20 min to Akron General/Summa.	$950 - $1,100	Young professionals seeking quiet, convenience, and good amenities.
Cuyahoga Falls	Family-friendly, riverfront parks, great restaurants. 15-20 min to Western Reserve/Summa.	$850 - $1,000	Those wanting a small-town feel with easy city access.
Merriman Valley	Upscale residential, near parks and hiking. 20-25 min to most hospitals.	$900 - $1,200	Nature lovers and those seeking a quieter, more scenic environment.
Downtown Akron	Urban, walkable, arts scene. 5-10 min to Cleveland Clinic Akron General.	$900 - $1,300	The urban professional who wants to be in the heart of the action.
Ellet	Affordable, established neighborhood. 15-20 min to most hospitals.	$750 - $900	Budget-conscious professionals and first-time homebuyers.

Insider Tip: Traffic in Akron is minimal compared to other metros. A 20-minute commute is the norm, even from the suburbs. Living near I-77 or I-76 gives you the most flexibility.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Akron offers solid advancement paths for LPNs willing to specialize.

• Specialty Premiums: LPNs with certifications in areas like Wound Care (CWCN), IV Therapy, or Dialysis can command higher salaries, potentially pushing into the $60,000+ range. Many employers will pay for these certifications.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Clinical Expert: Become the go-to LPN on your unit for complex patients. You become a resource for others.
  2. Charge Nurse: In some settings (especially SNFs and outpatient clinics), experienced LPNs can take on leadership roles, managing a shift or a team.
  3. Bridge to RN: Many local hospitals (like Summa and Cleveland Clinic) offer generous tuition assistance for LPNs to become RNs. This is the single most powerful career move. An RN license in Ohio can increase your earning potential by $15,000 - $25,000+ annually.
  4. Specialty Clinics: Move into a specific field like ophthalmology, dermatology, or cardiology as a clinic LPN. This often offers regular hours and a deep sense of expertise.

• 10-Year Outlook: The need for LPNs in Ohio will remain strong, driven by an aging population and the expansion of long-term care and home health services. The 5% growth rate indicates stability. However, the highest growth and salary potential will be for those who specialize or transition to an RN role. The healthcare systems in Akron are constantly investing in their workforce, so opportunities for professional development are readily available.

The Verdict: Is Akron Right for You?

Akron presents a compelling value proposition for an LPN. It's a city where you can build a financially stable life, own a home, and advance your career without the intense pressure and cost of larger metros.

Here’s a final snapshot of the pros and cons:

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: Your $53,440 salary provides a comfortable lifestyle and homeownership potential.	Salary Slightly Below National Average: You won't find the highest LPN pay here.
Stable Job Market: Major employers provide consistent opportunities and benefits.	Limited "Big City" Amenities: Fewer national concerts, sports, and diverse dining options.
Manageable Commutes: No traffic nightmares. You can live where you want.	Weather: Northeast Ohio winters are long, gray, and snowy.
Strong Healthcare Network: Great for gaining experience and pursuing tuition-assisted RN programs.	Slower Pace of Change: It's a stable, mature market, not a rapidly evolving tech hub.
Community Feel: A mix of urban and suburban neighborhoods with a strong sense of local identity.	Economic Transition: The city is still adapting post-manufacturing; some areas show economic strain.

Final Recommendation:
Akron is an excellent choice for LPNs who prioritize financial stability, work-life balance, and career foundation over high-cost, high-stress living. It's ideal for:

• New grads looking to gain solid experience in a supportive environment.
• LPNs from expensive states seeking a better quality of life.
• Professionals planning to start a family or buy a home on a single income.
• Those considering a bridge to an RN degree, thanks to local employer tuition benefits.

If you value a manageable pace, affordability, and a strong sense of community, Akron is a city where you can thrive as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

FAQs

1. What is the job market like for new LPN graduates in Akron?
The market is steady. New grads will find the most competition for hospital positions, but there are ample opportunities in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and home health to get your foot in the door. Having clinical rotations in the Akron area during school is a significant advantage.

2. How does the cost of living really compare to other Ohio cities?
Akron is consistently more affordable than Columbus and Cleveland. For example, median home prices are 30-40% lower in Akron than in Columbus. Your rent and grocery bills will also be noticeably lower. It's one of the most affordable major metros in Ohio.

3. Is it easy to transition from an LPN to an RN in Akron?
Yes, it's very feasible. Local employers like Summa Health and Cleveland Clinic have tuition reimbursement programs for employees pursuing an RN degree. There are also several respected LPN-to-RN bridge programs in the area, such as those at Stark State College and University of Akron.

4. What are the typical shift options for an LPN in Akron?
Hospitals and SNFs operate 24/7, so all shifts are available: 8-hour, 10-hour, or 12-hour shifts. Standard options include days, evenings, and nights. Many facilities offer self-scheduling or block scheduling after an orientation period. Flexibility is good, but nights and weekends are always in high demand.

5. Do I need a car in Akron?
For the lifestyle and job flexibility you'll want, yes. While you can live in downtown Akron and use public transit (METRO RTA) to get to some hospitals, most jobs and neighborhoods require a car. The city is spread out, and public transit doesn't cover all areas or run late at night. A car gives you access to the best housing and job options.