Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Aurora, CO

Of course. Here is a comprehensive career guide for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) considering Aurora, Colorado.

---

The Salary Picture: Where Aurora Stands

As a local who's watched Aurora's healthcare sector grow for years, I can tell you the numbers tell a compelling story for LPNs. The median salary for an LPN in Aurora is $55,521/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $26.69. This is slightly above the national average of $54,620/year, a solid starting point for a city with Aurora's cost of living.

The job market is active, with approximately 789 LPN positions listed across the metro area at any given time. Over the next decade, the 10-year job growth is projected at 5%, which is steady, if not explosive. This growth is largely driven by an aging population and the expansion of long-term care facilities and outpatient clinics, which are prevalent in Aurora.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Salary progression for an LPN in Aurora generally follows a clear path. While individual pay depends on the employer, specialty, and shift differentials, here's a realistic breakdown based on local market data and state reports.

Experience Level	Typical Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary Range
Entry-Level	0 - 2 years	$48,000 - $52,000
Mid-Level	2 - 5 years	$52,000 - $58,000
Senior-Level	5 - 10 years	$58,000 - $64,000
Expert/Specialized	10+ years	$64,000+ (up to $70k with certs)

Comparison to Other Colorado Cities

Aurora holds its own against other major Colorado employment hubs. It offers a competitive salary, especially when you factor in the broader job market compared to smaller cities.

City	Median Salary (LPN)	Cost of Living Index (US Avg = 100)	Key Notes
Aurora	$55,521	105.5	Large, diverse healthcare system; strong job count (789 jobs).
Denver	$56,100	118.0	Higher salary but significantly higher rent and overall costs.
Colorado Springs	$53,800	104.0	Lower salary, slightly lower cost of living; major military hospitals.
Fort Collins	$53,500	110.0	Smaller market, strong in geriatric care, higher cost for northern CO.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about the budget. On a median salary of $55,521, your monthly take-home pay after taxes (federal, state, and FICA) is approximately $3,400 - $3,500. The biggest variable in your budget is housing.

Average 1BR rent in Aurora is $1,835/month. The city's Cost of Living Index is 105.5 (US avg = 100), meaning it's about 5.5% more expensive than the national average, but notably more affordable than Denver proper.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Single LPN, Median Salary)

Here’s a realistic look at where your money goes:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	$3,450	After taxes
Rent (1BR Average)	$1,835	Your largest expense
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Internet)	$180	Varies by season; summer AC can spike it.
Car Payment/Insurance	$450	Aurora is car-dependent; insurance rates are moderate.
Groceries & Household	$350	Shopping at King Soopers or Costco is common.
Healthcare (Out-of-Pocket)	$150	Even with employer insurance.
Discretionary/Other	$485	Savings, entertainment, dining out.

Can they afford to buy a home? It's a challenge but not impossible. The median home price in Aurora is around $450,000. On a $55,521 salary, you'd be at the very top of the recommended debt-to-income ratio. It's more feasible for a dual-income household or an LPN with several years of experience earning $64,000+. Many LPNs I know start by buying a condo or a smaller home in more affordable neighborhoods like Central Aurora or South Aurora.

Where the Jobs Are: Aurora's Major Employers

Aurora’s healthcare scene is anchored by a few major players, with a deep network of clinics and long-term care facilities.

1. UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital (The Anschutz Medical Campus): This is the flagship hospital in the region. While many positions are RN-focused, they employ LPNs in specific roles like same-day surgery, outpatient clinics, and long-term care units. Hiring is continuous, and the benefits are top-tier. Insider tip: They often post jobs on their own portal before they hit major job boards.

2. Children's Hospital Colorado (Anschutz Campus): Another major anchor on the medical campus. LPN roles are more specialized here, often in outpatient clinics or procedural areas. Requires a love for pediatric care.

3. Centura Health (Avista Adventist Hospital & Littleton Adventist Hospital): While not directly in Aurora, these hospitals are major employers for Aurora residents, especially those living in the southeast quadrant. They have a strong network of outpatient clinics and specialty centers throughout Aurora.

4. The Medical Center of Aurora: This is Aurora's community hospital, part of the HCA Healthcare system. It's a fantastic place for LPNs to gain acute care experience in a slightly smaller setting than the Anschutz giants. They have strong ER, med-surg, and surgical departments.

5. Aurora Mental Health Center (AuroraMHC): A critical community resource. They hire LPNs for various roles, including residential treatment facilities and outpatient settings. This is a great path if you're interested in behavioral health.

6. Long-Term Care & Rehabilitation Facilities: Aurora has a high demand for LPNs in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and assisted living communities. Companies like SavaSeniorCare and BrightStar Care have a significant presence. This is often where new graduates get their start.

Hiring Trends: There's a consistent demand for LPNs in geriatric care, home health, and outpatient settings. Hospitals are competitive, and experience is key. Hiring is more active in Q1 and Q3 as budget cycles reset and facilities prepare for seasonal increases in patient volume.

Getting Licensed in Colorado

The Colorado State Board of Nursing handles licensure. If you're moving from another state, you'll need to apply for licensure by endorsement.

• Requirements: You must have graduated from an approved LPN program, passed the NCLEX-PN, and hold an active, unencumbered license in your home state.
• Costs: The application fee for licensure by endorsement is $88.00 (as of 2023). You will also need to pay for a criminal background check, which is approximately $39.50. Your total initial cost is around $127.50.
• Timeline: Colorado is part of the Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC). If your home state is also a compact state, the process is faster—you typically just need to apply for your multi-state license. If you're from a non-compact state, plan for 4-8 weeks to receive your Colorado license. Start the process before you move.
• Resources: The Colorado State Board of Nursing website is your primary resource. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) provides the NCLEX-PN exam information.

Best Neighborhoods for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPNs)

Aurora is vast, and your commute and lifestyle will depend on where you live. Here are four neighborhoods that offer a good balance for healthcare professionals.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Lifestyle	Avg. 1BR Rent	Commute to Major Hospitals
Hoffman Heights	Quiet, residential, family-friendly. Close to Anschutz Medical Campus.	$1,750	10-15 mins to UCHealth/Children's. Easy access to I-225.
Southshore	Newer, master-planned community. Modern amenities, parks, very safe.	$1,950	20-25 mins to Anschutz; closer to Centura hospitals.
Central Aurora	Urban, diverse, and walkable. More affordable, close to downtown Denver.	$1,600	15-20 mins to Anschutz via I-225. Vibe is more city-like.
Sable Highlands	Established, tree-lined streets. Good value, mix of single-family homes and apartments.	$1,700	15 mins to The Medical Center of Aurora; 20 mins to Anschutz.

Insider Tip: Traffic on I-225 and I-70 can be brutal during rush hour. If you work at the Anschutz campus, living in Hoffman Heights or the Aurora Hills area will save you significant commute time compared to living in the southern suburbs.

The Long Game: Career Growth

While the median salary of $55,521 is a solid start, LPNs in Aurora have clear paths to increase their earnings and responsibilities.

• Specialty Premiums: Obtaining certifications can add $2-$4/hour to your base pay. The most valued in Colorado are:

  • IV Therapy Certification (required for many hospital roles).
  • Geriatric Nursing (CPGN)
  • Wound Care Certification (WCC)
  • Phlebotomy certification is also a plus for outpatient roles.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Charge LPN: Supervising other LPNs and LPN students in a unit.
  2. Clinical Instructor: Teaching in an LPN program (often requires an Associate's Degree or Bachelor's).
  3. The Bridge to RN: This is the most common path. Aurora has excellent ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) and BSN programs. Many employers, especially UCHealth and Centura, offer tuition reimbursement. An RN license in Colorado can boost your salary to the $75,000 - $85,000+ range.

• 10-Year Outlook (5% Growth): This growth will be concentrated in home health, hospice, and geriatric care due to Colorado's aging population. Outpatient clinics and specialized procedural areas (like dialysis or wound care) will also see steady demand. Hospital-based LPN roles may remain stable or grow slowly.

The Verdict: Is Aurora Right for You?

Pros for LPNs in Aurora	Cons for LPNs in Aurora
Competitive Salary vs. National Avg: $55,521 is a good entry point.	High Cost of Living: The $1,835 average rent is a major budget item.
Robust & Diverse Job Market: 789 jobs and major employer presence.	Car-Dependent City: You'll need a reliable vehicle and budget for gas/insurance.
Career Advancement Pathways: Clear routes to specialize or become an RN.	Salary Growth Can Be Slow: Without certifications or a degree, pay may plateau.
Access to Top-Tier Healthcare: Work at nationally recognized facilities.	Competition: The market is competitive, especially for hospital jobs.
Affordable Proximity to Denver: Access to a major city without the extreme cost.	Traffic: Commutes can be long if you don't live near your workplace.

Final Recommendation: Aurora is a strong choice for LPNs who are career-focused. It's an excellent place to gain experience in a variety of settings, from large academic hospitals to community clinics. The financial reality is tight on a single median salary, but manageable if you budget carefully. It's most ideal for those who plan to specialize or bridge to an RN degree within a few years, which unlocks the region's true earning potential. If you're looking for a slower pace or a lower cost of living, you might find better fits in smaller Colorado towns, but you'll sacrifice the sheer volume of career opportunities Aurora offers.

FAQs

1. I'm a new LPN graduate. Is it hard to get a job in Aurora?
It's competitive, but very doable. Long-term care facilities and home health agencies are the most common entry points. Hospitals often want 1-2 years of experience. Be flexible with shift and setting for your first job, then leverage that experience to move into your preferred specialty.

2. Do I need my own car?
Yes, absolutely. Public transportation (RTD) exists but is not efficient for getting to many hospitals, especially the Anschutz campus, which is not right on a train line. The city is spread out, and a car is essential for commuting and daily life.

3. What's the best way to find LPN jobs in Aurora?
Start with the career pages of the major employers listed above (UCHealth, Centura, etc.). Also, use sites like Indeed and LinkedIn, but filter for "Aurora, CO." Local healthcare staffing agencies are also very active and can be a great way to get your foot in the door.

4. Is the cost of living really that high?
Compared to the national average, yes (index of 105.5). The main driver is housing. However, it's significantly more affordable than Denver, Boulder, or the ski resort towns. You can manage comfortably on an LPN salary if you live within your means and avoid high-end areas.

5. Can I specialize as an LPN in Colorado?
Yes. While the scope of practice is defined by the state board, many settings allow LPNs to work in specific areas like pediatrics, geriatrics, mental health, or dialysis. Pursuing certifications (like IV therapy or wound care) is the best way to formalize your specialty and increase your pay.