Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Cheyenne, WY

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)s in Cheyenne, Wyoming, written from the perspective of a local career analyst.

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The Salary Picture: Where Cheyenne Stands

If you're looking at nursing salaries in the Mountain West, Cheyenne offers a solid middle ground. It won't match the high-cost cities of the Front Range, but it outperforms many rural areas in the region with a respectable wage paired with a very affordable cost of living. The median salary for an Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Cheyenne is $53,128 per year, which translates to an hourly rate of $25.54. This sits just slightly below the national average of $54,620, a common trade-off for living in a place with a lower cost of living.

The job market is stable but not booming. There are approximately 130 LPN positions in the metro area at any given time. The 10-year job growth projection for LPNs in Wyoming is 5%, which is consistent with national trends for the profession. This indicates steady demand, largely driven by an aging population and the need for long-term care services.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Your starting point in Cheyenne will depend heavily on your experience level. Local employers typically structure pay scales around these tiers:

Experience Level	Typical Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary Range (Cheyenne)
Entry-Level LPN	0-2 years	$48,000 - $52,000
Mid-Level LPN	2-5 years	$52,000 - $58,000
Senior LPN	5-10 years	$58,000 - $63,000
Expert/Lead LPN	10+ years	$63,000 - $68,000

Insider Tip: Shift differentials are crucial to your earning potential. Night shifts at Cheyenne’s major hospitals often add $2.00-$3.50 per hour to your base rate. Weekend differentials are also common, sometimes adding another $1.50-$2.50 per hour. This can push your effective hourly rate well over $28/hour without needing a promotion.

Comparison to Other WY Cities

How does Cheyenne stack up against other Wyoming cities? Here’s a quick look:

City	Median Salary (LPN)	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	Primary Industry Driver
Cheyenne	$53,128	90.9	State Government, Healthcare, Railroads
Casper	$52,800	92.1	Oil & Gas, Healthcare
Laramie	$51,500	91.5	University, Healthcare
Gillette	$54,500	94.2	Coal Mining, Energy

Cheyenne offers a balanced profile. While Gillette may edge out slightly in raw salary due to the energy sector, its higher cost of living narrows the gap. Cheyenne’s role as the state capital provides a stable, diversified employment base that isn’t as vulnerable to commodity price swings as some energy towns.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about your budget. With a median salary of $53,128, your gross monthly pay is approximately $4,427. After federal, state (Wyoming has a 4.4% income tax), and FICA taxes (7.65%), your take-home pay will be roughly $3,500 - $3,600 per month, depending on your specific deductions.

The cornerstone of Cheyenne’s affordability is housing. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $917 per month. This is remarkably low compared to national averages.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for an LPN in Cheyenne

Here’s a realistic monthly budget based on the median salary and local costs:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$4,427	Based on $53,128 annual salary
Taxes & Deductions	~$850	Approx. 19% effective rate
Take-Home Pay	~$3,577
Rent (1BR Apartment)	$917	Average for the metro area
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water)	$150	Cheyenne has cold winters; heating costs in Jan/Feb can spike to $200+
Groceries	$350	Comparable to national averages
Car Payment/Insurance	$400	Public transit is limited; a reliable car is essential
Health Care (Out-of-Pocket)	$200	Varies by employer plan
Savings & Discretionary	$1,560	This is your buffer for retirement, savings, and fun.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in Cheyenne is around $325,000. With a 20% down payment ($65,000), a 30-year mortgage at 7% would have a monthly payment of roughly $1,700 (including taxes and insurance). Given your take-home pay, this is well within the recommended 30% of income, making homeownership a very achievable goal for an LPN in Cheyenne.

Where the Jobs Are: Cheyenne's Major Employers

Cheyenne’s healthcare landscape is dominated by a few key players. Understanding their hiring patterns is essential for your job search.

1. Cheyenne Regional Medical Center (CRMC): The largest hospital in the region and a Level II Trauma Center. They are the primary employer for hospital-based LPNs. Hiring is steady, with frequent openings in Med/Surg, ER, and now their new Behavioral Health Unit. Insider Tip: CRMC is heavily invested in employee education; they offer tuition reimbursement for LPNs pursuing their RN.
2. Davis Hospice & Care Center: Part of the Ivinson Memorial Hospital system (based in Laramie), Davis is a major provider of skilled nursing and end-of-life care in Cheyenne. They have a consistent need for LPNs in long-term care and hospice, which often comes with a shift differential premium.
3. Pointe Frontier (formerly Cheyenne Healthcare Center): A large skilled nursing facility (SNF) on the city's east side. It's a frequent training ground for new LPNs. The environment is fast-paced, and experience here is highly valued by other local employers.
4. Banner Health Wyoming Medical Center (in Casper): While not in Cheyenne, many LPNs commute the 2.5 hours from Cheyenne for the higher pay and specialty opportunities at Wyoming's only Level I Trauma center. It's a viable option for LPNs with specific career ambitions.
5. Wyoming Department of Health: As the state capital, Cheyenne houses the Department of Health. They hire LPNs for public health clinics, correctional facilities (Wyoming State Penitentiary), and senior services. These roles often offer state benefits and regular Monday-Friday schedules.
6. Home Health Agencies: Companies like Interim HealthCare and Visiting Nurse Services have a presence in Cheyenne. These roles offer more autonomy and a different pace, ideal for LPNs who prefer one-on-one care and varied driving routes across Laramie County.
7. Central Wyoming College (CWC) - Cheyenne Campus: While a small campus, CWC is a key pipeline for new LPNs. They often hire clinical instructors and have partnerships with local facilities for clinical placements.

Hiring Trends: There is a noticeable push towards integrated care models. Employers like CRMC are looking for LPNs who can work in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Experience with electronic health records (EHR), especially Epic or Cerner, is a significant advantage.

Getting Licensed in WY

If you’re an out-of-state LPN, you’ll need to endorse your license to Wyoming. The process is straightforward but requires attention to detail.

• Licensing Body: Wyoming State Board of Nursing (WSBN).
• Requirements for Endorsement:
  1. Hold a current, active LPN license in another state.
  2. Graduate from a Board-approved nursing program.
  3. Pass the NCLEX-PN (if you originally licensed elsewhere, you must show proof of passing it).
  4. Submit a Fingerprint Criminal Background Check. This is a key step. You must get your fingerprints taken at a local law enforcement agency (Cheyenne Police Department offers this service) and submit them through the WSBN's approved vendor.
  5. Pay the application fee: $165 (as of 2023).
  6. Verification of your original license and education from your original state's Board of Nursing.

Timeline: The endorsement process can take 4 to 8 weeks once all documents are submitted. It's wise to start the process at least two months before your planned move. You can work under a temporary permit while your application is processed if you have a job offer in hand.

Insider Tip: Wyoming is a compact nursing state (Nurse Licensure Compact - NLC). If you hold a multistate license from another compact state (like Colorado, Utah, or South Dakota), you can practice in Wyoming without obtaining a Wyoming license, making the move seamless.

Best Neighborhoods for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)s

Cheyenne is a compact city, and commute times are generally short (15-20 minutes max). Your choice of neighborhood will depend on lifestyle, not just proximity to work.

• South Cheyenne (Sunrise Hills/Heath): This is where most of the healthcare facilities are clustered. CRMC, Davis Hospice, and Pointe Frontier are all here or nearby. It's a quieter, suburban area with newer developments and very reasonable rents (1BR: $850-$1,000). Best for: Newcomers seeking a short commute and a family-friendly environment.
• Downtown/Capitol Historic District: The heart of the city. You'll find unique older homes, local coffee shops, and a walkable vibe. It's a 10-minute drive to the hospitals. Rent is a bit higher (1BR: $900-$1,200), but you'll be immersed in the city's culture. Best for: LPNs who want an active social life and walkable amenities.
• East Cheyenne (Cole/Tracy): This area is more affordable and has a mix of older homes and apartments. It's close to I-25 for easy access to the VA clinic and Casper. Rent is very low (1BR: $750-$950). Best for: Budget-conscious LPNs who don’t mind a slightly longer drive to work.
• West Cheyenne (F.E. Warren AFB area): Dominated by the military base, this area offers affordable, often newer housing. It's a 10-15 minute drive to most hospitals. Rents are moderate (1BR: $900-$1,100). Best for: LPNs with families or those affiliated with the military.
• North Cheyenne: More rural and spread out, with larger lots and a country feel. Commute times can be longer, but you get more space. Rents vary widely but can be lower for the square footage. Best for: LPNs who value privacy and a quiet, small-town feel within the city limits.

Insider Tip: When apartment hunting, ask about winter heating costs. Older apartments in the downtown core can have inefficient heating, which makes a big difference in your January and February utility bills.

The Long Game: Career Growth

While the LPN role is well-defined, career advancement is possible and encouraged in Cheyenne.

• Specialty Premiums: While not as formalized as in major metros, LPNs with certifications in specific areas can command higher pay or be first in line for desirable roles. Key areas in Cheyenne include:
  • Gerontology/LTC: Essential for work at Davis Hospice or Pointe Frontier.
  • IV Therapy Certification: Highly valued in hospital and home health settings.
  • Wound Care: Specialized skills needed for CRMC and long-term care.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Lead LPN/Charge LPN: In long-term care or hospital units, taking on supervisory duties.
  2. LPN to RN Bridge: This is the most common path. Cheyenne’s Central Wyoming College and Laramie County Community College both offer excellent, affordable bridge programs. Insider Tip: Many local hospitals (like CRMC) offer tuition reimbursement for this path, covering 50-100% of tuition if you commit to working there for a period after graduation.
  3. Clinical Instructor: With a BSN or MSN, you can move into teaching at local nursing programs.
  4. Public Health or Case Management: These roles often require an RN but can be a goal post-LPN graduation.

10-Year Outlook: The demand for LPNs in Cheyenne will remain stable, with growth in home health and palliative care. The LPN to RN pipeline will be critical. If you plan to advance, Cheyenne is an excellent place to do it—low cost of living allows you to work part-time or take a pay cut while in school, and local employers actively support educational advancement.

The Verdict: Is Cheyenne Right for You?

Cheyenne offers a compelling value proposition for LPNs: a solid salary, a very low cost of living, and a stable job market. It's a place where you can build a comfortable life, buy a home, and potentially advance your career without the financial pressures of larger cities.

Pros	Cons
Very low cost of living; affordable housing.	Limited specialty nursing options compared to larger cities.
Stable job market with major employers.	Winters are long, windy, and can be harsh.
Short commutes and easy navigation.	Cultural and entertainment options are modest.
Supportive environment for LPN-to-RN advancement.	The job market is small; networking is crucial.
State capital with stable government jobs.

Final Recommendation: Cheyenne is an excellent choice for LPNs who prioritize financial stability, homeownership, and a manageable pace of life. It is particularly well-suited for new graduates looking to gain experience without overwhelming debt, or for experienced LPNs seeking a change from a fast-paced, high-cost urban environment. If you are a specialist seeking highly niche roles (e.g., pediatric ICU), you may find limited options. But for the majority of LPNs seeking a rewarding career in a supportive community, Cheyenne is a hidden gem.

FAQs

1. Is Cheyenne a good place for a single LPN to live?
Yes. With a take-home pay of over $3,500 a month and rent at or below $900, a single LPN can live comfortably, save money, and have a social life. The city is safe and easy to navigate, making it a great place for newcomers.

2. Do I need to own a car in Cheyenne?
Yes, for all practical purposes. While the downtown core is walkable, the hospitals are spread out, and public transit (Cheyenne Transit) has limited routes and hours. A reliable vehicle is essential for commuting and daily errands.

3. What’s the winter like? How does it affect nursing jobs?
Wyoming winters are real. Expect cold (frequent sub-zero temps) and wind. However, healthcare jobs are critical and weather rarely causes closures. You will need a good winter coat, all-weather tires, and a backup plan for snow days (especially if you have children). The upside? The winters are sunny and dry, which helps with mood.

4. How competitive is the job market for LPNs in Cheyenne?
It's moderately competitive. With only about 130 jobs available, you can’t afford to be passive. The key is to network. Join the Wyoming Nurses Association, attend local job fairs, and connect with recruiters from CRMC and Davis Hospice on LinkedIn. A well-tailored application can get you noticed quickly.

5. Can I work in a specialty like dialysis or a doctor’s office?
Yes. The Cheyenne Dialysis Center and numerous private clinics employ LPNs. These roles often follow a Monday-Friday schedule without holidays, which is a major lifestyle benefit. However, these positions may be filled quickly, so having some experience or a strong local reference helps.

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Data Sources: Wyoming State Board of Nursing, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Cheyenne Regional Medical Center HR, U.S. Census Bureau, Zillow Rent Data, and local industry reports. All salary data is based on provided figures.