A Career Analyst's Guide for Licensed Practical Nurses in College Station, TX

As a career analyst who has spent years dissecting job markets across Texas, I can tell you that College Station offers a unique proposition for Licensed Practical Nurses. It’s not the sprawling, high-stakes medical hub of Houston or the booming tech scene of Austin, but rather a steady, community-focused market with a distinct rhythm. Home to Texas A&M University, the city’s economy is anchored by education and agriculture, but its healthcare needs are robust and consistent. For an LPN, this translates to a stable, family-friendly environment with a reasonable cost of living and a clear path to professional growth, though the salary ceiling may be lower than in major metros.

This guide is built on hard data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Texas Board of Nursing, and local market analysis. I’ll provide the unvarnished numbers, the local employer landscape, and the real-world budget math you need to make an informed decision. Let’s get to work.

The Salary Picture: Where College Station Stands

When evaluating any job market, the first question is always about compensation. For LPNs in College Station, the data paints a picture of stability and affordability, but not necessarily high-end earning potential.

The median salary for an LPN in the College Station-Bryan metro area is $53,096 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $25.53. This is slightly below the national average of $54,620, a gap that is common in smaller, lower-cost-of-living metros. The key takeaway is that while the nominal salary is a touch under the national figure, your purchasing power in College Station is significantly stronger due to its cost structure.

Here’s how salaries typically break down by experience level in this market:

| Experience Level | Estimated Annual Salary Range | Context in College Station |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Entry-Level | $45,000 - $49,000 | You can expect this range straight out of nursing school, often starting in long-term care or home health. |
| Mid-Career (3-7 yrs) | $50,000 - $58,000 | This is where the median sits. LPNs at this stage have moved into hospital roles (like St. Joseph) or specialty clinics. |
| Senior (8-15 yrs) | $58,000 - $65,000 | With experience, LPNs often take on preceptor roles, charge nurse duties in long-term care, or move into case management. |
| Expert (15+ yrs) | $65,000+ | Top earners are typically in niche specialties (e.g., wound care, IV therapy certification) or have moved into education/coordinator roles. |

How does this compare to other Texas cities? College Station is a middle-market player. It’s notably more affordable than Austin or Dallas, where median salaries might be $58,000-$60,000 but are completely offset by housing costs. Compared to similar-sized metros like Lubbock or Tyler, College Station’s salaries are competitive, and its proximity to Houston (a 1.5-hour drive) provides a backup option for occasional travel nursing gigs that can boost income.

Insider Tip: The 10-year job growth for LPNs in the metro area is projected at 5%, which is modest but steady. The real driver here isn't explosive growth; it's the constant churn and replacement needs in long-term care facilities and the expansion of outpatient services. With 250 LPN jobs in the metro at any given time, the market is small enough that networking matters immensely. A recommendation from a current nurse at a local facility can fast-track your application.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get brutally practical. A gross salary is just a number; your take-home pay and ability to live comfortably matter more. Here’s a monthly budget breakdown for an LPN earning the median salary of $53,096/year.

Assumptions: Tax filing status is single with one exemption. We include federal income tax, Social Security (6.2%), and Medicare (1.45%). Texas has no state income tax. Rent is based on the area average of $1,015/month for a 1-bedroom apartment.

Category	Monthly Amount	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$4,424.67
Estimated Taxes & Deductions	$1,050	(Approx. 23.7% effective rate for this bracket)
Net Take-Home Pay	$3,374.67
Rent (Avg 1BR)	$1,015
Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet)	$200	Summer AC costs can spike this.
Car Payment/Insurance	$450	Essential in a car-dependent city.
Gas	$150	Commuting within the metro.
Groceries & Household	$400
Health Insurance (if not covered)	$200	Varies widely by employer.
Misc. (Dining, Ent., Savings)	$559.67	The "flex" category.
Remaining Buffer	$0	Tight but manageable.

Analysis: This budget is feasible but leaves little room for error or aggressive savings. The Cost of Living Index of 90.7 (US avg = 100) is your ally here. Your money goes about 9.3% further than the national average. However, this budget assumes a modest lifestyle. If you have student loans, a car note, or family expenses, you’ll need to manage carefully.

Can they afford to buy a home? This is a key question for long-term stability. The median home price in College Station is approximately $320,000. Using a standard 28% rule on your take-home pay ($3,374.67 * 0.28 = $945/month for housing), you could theoretically afford a mortgage payment in the $900-$950 range. This would likely require an FHA loan (3.5% down) on a starter home or condo in the $180,000-$220,000 range, which is possible in some College Station neighborhoods or in nearby Bryan. It’s not an immediate reality for a single income, but with a second income or a few years of savings, homeownership is a realistic goal here, unlike in Texas’s larger metros.

Where the Jobs Are: College Station's Major Employers

The job market here is dominated by a few key players. With 250 LPN jobs in the metro, knowing where to look is half the battle. Here are the primary employers and their hiring trends.

1. St. Joseph Health (now part of CHI St. Joseph Health): The region’s largest hospital. While they heavily staff with RNs, LPNs are crucial in their Medical-Surgical units, the Emergency Department (as techs), and most importantly, in their outpatient clinics (e.g., Family Medicine, Orthopedics). Hiring is steady, often tied to the academic calendar (August/January peaks). They are a preferred employer for benefits and career development.

2. Brazos Valley Senior Health & Wellness (BVSHW): A major post-acute care provider with facilities in Bryan and College Station. This is a primary landing spot for new LPNs. They offer stable hours and experience in long-term care and rehab. Hiring is consistent due to high turnover in the industry; they often host job fairs and have a rapid onboarding process.

3. The Medico Family: A large, locally-owned group of nursing homes and assisted living facilities (e.g., The Medico, Crestwood). These are the backbone of the local LPN job market. They frequently seek LPNs for night and weekend shifts, which often come with a shift differential. Experience here is valued across the metro.

4. College Station Medical Center: A smaller, community-based hospital offering acute care services. They sometimes have LPN openings in their geriatric or med-surg units. It’s a good place to get acute care experience without the scale of St. Joseph.

5. Home Health Agencies (e.g., Visiting Angels, BrightStar Care): The home health sector is growing as the population ages. LPNs in this role perform skilled visits, wound care, and medication management. This offers more independence but requires strong time management and self-discipline. Hiring is often on an as-needed basis.

6. Texas A&M University Health Science Center: While many roles are RN or provider-focused, the HSC’s clinics (e.g., the Family Medicine Clinic on George Bush Drive) sometimes employ LPNs for patient intake, vaccinations, and clinical support. These roles are highly competitive and offer great hours and benefits.

Insider Tip: The biggest hiring trend is a shift toward outpatient and ambulatory care. As hospital stays shorten, more care moves to clinics and home settings. LPNs with experience in phlebotomy, EKGs, or diabetic education will have a distinct advantage. Also, temp agencies like AMN Healthcare or local staffing firms often fill contract positions at these major employers, which can be a foot in the door for permanent roles.

Getting Licensed in TX

If you are an LPN moving from another state, or a new graduate, Texas has a clear but structured process. The Texas Board of Nursing (BON) is the governing body.

For New Graduates:

1. Graduate from an approved LPN program. This must be on the BON’s list of approved programs.
2. Apply for the NCLEX-PN. You’ll submit your application to the BON, pay a fee (~$200), and register with Pearson VUE.
3. Pass the NCLEX-PN. Once you get your Authorization to Test (ATT), you have 90 days to schedule and pass the exam.
4. Receive your license. Once you pass, the BON issues your Texas license. The total process from application to license in hand can take 4-8 weeks if everything is in order.

For an Out-of-State LPN (Compact State vs. Non-Compact):
Texas is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state. If you hold a multistate license from another compact state (e.g., Oklahoma, Louisiana, New Mexico), you can practice in Texas immediately. You should still easily and quickly apply for Texas residency to switch your license to a Texas single-state or multi-state license.

• Non-Compact State: You must apply for Texas endorsement. This involves verification from your original state, a background check, and a fee (~$100+). Timeline: 6-10 weeks.

Total Estimated Costs (New Grad):

• NCLEX-PN Exam Fee: $200
• BON Application Fee: $100
• Background Check/Fingerprinting: $50
• Total: ~$350

Insider Tip: Texas BON processes are efficient, but delays happen, especially in summer when nursing schools graduate. Apply for your license the moment you graduate. Do not wait. Also, the BON website is your bible—bookmark the "Nursing Licensure Compact" page and the "Licensure by Examination" page.

Best Neighborhoods for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN)s

Where you live in College Station impacts your commute, social life, and budget. Here’s a breakdown of neighborhoods that work well for LPNs.

1. South College Station (e.g., Wolf Pen Creek, Castlegate):

   • Commute: Excellent to St. Joseph Hospital and major clinics (~10-15 minutes). Easy access to Highway 6.
   • Lifestyle: Quiet, family-oriented, with parks and shopping. Popular with young professionals and families.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,050 - $1,200/month for a 1BR. Slightly above the city average, but you pay for convenience.

2. North College Station (e.g., Barron’s Branch, Traditions):

   • Commute: Good to St. Joseph and the Texas A&M campus. Can be a bit longer to reach Bryan facilities.
   • Lifestyle: Newer developments, modern apartments, and a younger vibe due to proximity to A&M. More nightlife and dining options.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,000 - $1,150/month for a 1BR.

3. Downtown Bryan:

   • Commute: Good to Brazos Valley Senior Health and Bryan medical offices. A longer commute to College Station hospitals (20-30 mins).
   • Lifestyle: Historic, walkable, with a growing arts and food scene. More affordable than central College Station. A great option for those who want character.
   • Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,100/month for a 1BR.

4. East College Station (e.g., Houston Street area):

   • Commute: Decent to all major employers. Easy highway access.
   • Lifestyle: Established neighborhoods, a mix of older homes and apartments. More affordable rent.
   • Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,050/month for a 1BR.

5. University Drive Corridor:

   • Commute: Central, but traffic can be heavy on University Drive during peak hours.
   • Lifestyle: Highly convenient to shopping, restaurants, and entertainment. Can be noisier and less private.
   • Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,200/month for a 1BR.

Insider Tip: If you work night shifts, prioritize safety and a quiet environment. South College Station and Traditions are often recommended for their newer, well-lit complexes. Always visit a neighborhood at night before renting.

The Long Game: Career Growth

LPNs in Texas have a clear scope of practice, but advancement requires intentional steps. The 10-year outlook is positive, driven by the aging population, but requires you to specialize.

Specialty Premiums & Advancements:

• IV Therapy Certification: This is the single most valuable certification for an LPN in Texas. It allows you to administer IV medications, which dramatically increases your employability in hospitals, clinics, and home health. Cost: ~$300-$500. Earning potential increase: +10-15%.
• Wound Care Certification (LPN): With a growing diabetic and aging population, wound care is in high demand. This can lead to roles in specialized wound clinics or as a visiting nurse.
• Charge Nurse in Long-Term Care: Many facilities promote experienced LPNs to charge nurse roles, where they oversee other LPNs and CNAs. This is a managerial stepping stone.
• Bridge to RN: The most significant career move. Many local colleges (like Blinn College or Texas A&M's nursing program) offer LPN-to-RN bridge programs. Completing an RN degree can bump your salary to the $70,000-$80,000 range in this market and open doors to hospital leadership, ICU, and OR roles.

10-Year Outlook:
The 5% job growth is steady. The key trends will be:

1. Increased use of LPNs in care coordination for chronic diseases (diabetes, COPD).
2. Telehealth support roles for LPNs, managing remote patient monitoring.
3. Continued dominance of long-term care, but with a higher demand for skilled LPNs over unlicensed aides.

Insider Tip: In College Station, relationships with Texas A&M's nursing programs are key. If you're an experienced LPN, consider becoming an adjunct clinical instructor. It’s a great way to supplement income and build your professional network.

The Verdict: Is College Station Right for You?

This decision hinges on your priorities—salary vs. cost of living, pace of life vs. career ceiling.

Pros	Cons
Very affordable cost of living (Index 90.7). Your salary goes far.	Salaries are below the national average; long-term earning potential is capped without an RN degree.
Stable job market with consistent demand in key sectors (long-term care, clinics).	The job market is small (250 jobs). Fewer employers means less competition for you but also less choice.
Family-friendly environment with good schools, parks, and community events.	Can feel isolated or "small-town" if you're used to a major metro. Limited nightlife and cultural diversity.
Proximity to Houston for occasional travel nursing or higher-paying opportunities.	10-year growth is modest (5%); not a boomtown for healthcare careers.
Lower stress, community-focused healthcare settings.	Professional advancement often requires commuting to Houston or pursuing an RN degree.

Final Recommendation: College Station is an excellent choice for a new LPN graduate or a mid-career nurse seeking a stable, lower-stress environment with a high quality of life. If your primary goal is to pay off student loans, build savings, and work in a supportive community, this city delivers. It’s a terrible choice if your main ambition is to earn a top-tier salary immediately or live in a bustling, dynamic urban center.

FAQs

1. I'm a new LPN graduate. Is it hard to find my first job in College Station?
It’s competitive but very possible. The key is flexibility. Be open to starting in long-term care or home health. Apply to multiple employers (St. Joseph, Brazos Valley Senior Health, Medico) simultaneously. Having your Texas license in hand before applying is a huge advantage.

**2. How