Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Daytona Beach, FL

The Salary Picture: Where Daytona Beach Stands

Let’s get straight to the numbers, because that’s what matters when you’re deciding if a move is feasible. For an LPN in the Daytona Beach metro area, the financial reality is defined by a few key figures. The median salary sits at $54,406/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $26.16/hour. It’s important to note that this is slightly below the national average for LPNs, which is $54,620/year. While the difference is marginal, it reflects the local economic landscape—specifically, a cost of living that’s nearly on par with the national average.

However, Daytona Beach isn't a monolith. Your earnings will vary significantly based on your experience and the specific sector you work in. A new graduate in a long-term care facility will earn differently than a seasoned LPN specializing in wound care at a hospital. Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect at different career stages in this market:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary Range (Daytona Beach)	Key Factors
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$48,000 - $52,000	Typically in home health, nursing homes, or junior roles in clinics. Starting pay often hinges on shift differentials (nights/weekends).
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$54,406 (Median) - $58,000	This is the sweet spot for many. Specialization (e.g., geriatrics, IV certification) or moving to a hospital setting (like Halifax Health) can push you to the higher end.
Senior-Level (8-15 years)	$58,000 - $65,000	Roles with leadership components (charge nurse), specialized clinics, or positions in higher-acuity settings. Your local network becomes critical.
Expert/Specialist (15+ years)	$65,000+	This is less about base salary and more about niche roles—wound care, dialysis, or case management. Many at this level also work per-diem for multiple employers.

Insider Tip: Don't just look at the base salary. The "jobs in metro" figure of 164 indicates a stable, but not booming, market. You have leverage if you're willing to work in less traditional settings (e.g., school nursing, occupational health) or per-diem. The 10-year job growth of 5% is modest but steady, mirroring national trends for an aging population. It means jobs are there, but competition for the best positions at top employers is real.

When you compare Daytona Beach to other Florida cities, the picture becomes clearer. You’ll earn less here than in Miami or Tampa, but your money goes further. The cost of living is a key differentiator, which we’ll break down next.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A salary is just a number until you account for taxes and housing—the two biggest drains on your paycheck. Let’s model a monthly budget for an LPN earning the median salary of $54,406/year in Daytona Beach. We’ll assume you’re single, filing as "Single" for taxes, and taking the standard deduction.

Estimated Monthly Take-Home Pay:

• Gross Monthly Income: $4,534
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, FICA, State): ~$1,020
• Net Monthly Take-Home: ~$3,514

Now, let’s layer in the cost of living. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Daytona Beach is $1,152/month. The Cost of Living Index is 98.7, meaning it’s slightly cheaper than the national average (100), but not drastically so.

Here’s what a typical monthly budget looks like for an LPN in this scenario:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$1,152	This is the city average. You can find cheaper in some areas, but this is a realistic baseline.
Utilities (Elec, Water, Internet)	$200 - $250	Florida's heat and humidity make AC a non-negotiable expense, especially from May to October.
Groceries	$350 - $400
Car Payment/Insurance/Gas	$450 - $600	Daytona is car-dependent. Insurance rates are high in Florida.
Health Insurance (if not fully covered)	$150 - $300	Varies widely by employer.
Savings/Retirement (10%)	$450	Highly recommended.
Miscellaneous (Phone, Leisure)	$300 - $400
Total Estimated Expenses	$3,052 - $3,402

Analysis: On a median salary, you are living comfortably but not lavishly. Your monthly surplus after expenses is approximately $112 to $462. This budget is tight and leaves little room for large unexpected costs. Many LPNs in Daytona work per-diem shifts or have a side hustle to increase their income buffer.

Can they afford to buy a home?
The short answer is: it's challenging but possible with discipline. The median home price in Volusia County hovers around $300,000 - $325,000. A 20% down payment would be $60,000-$65,000, which is a significant savings goal. However, Florida has property taxes and homeowners insurance that are notably high. On a $54,406 salary, a lender would be cautious. You would likely need a dual-income household, a larger down payment (or an FHA loan), and a pristine credit score to comfortably afford a mortgage. Renting is the more feasible short-to-mid-term option for most LPNs new to the area.

Where the Jobs Are: Daytona Beach's Major Employers

Daytona Beach’s healthcare ecosystem is anchored by a few major players, with several smaller but vital niche employers. The market is competitive, so knowing the landscape is key.

1. Halifax Health: The largest employer in Volusia County. This is a Level II Trauma Center and a major teaching hospital. It’s a primary destination for LPNs seeking hospital experience. Hiring trends are steady, with a constant need in med-surg, rehab, and long-term care units. Insider Tip: They often have "LPN to RN" bridge programs, which is a huge plus for career advancement.

2. AdventHealth Daytona Beach: Part of a large faith-based network, this hospital offers a different culture and strong benefits. They are known for innovation and often have openings in outpatient clinics, urgent care, and surgical services. Their growth strategy often involves acquiring smaller practices, creating more LPN roles in community settings.

3. Bethune-Cookman University (BCU) Student Health Center: A unique employer. While smaller, it offers a fantastic work-life balance with a school-year schedule. It’s a great fit for LPNs interested in primary care and pediatrics. These positions are rare and highly sought-after.

4. Volusia County School District: School nurse positions are gold for work-life balance, following the academic calendar. You’d be responsible for daily health screenings, managing chronic conditions (like diabetes), and handling minor injuries. Competition is fierce, and you often need experience.

5. Long-Term Care & Rehabilitation Facilities (a major category): Daytona has a significant retiree population, fueling demand in nursing homes. Employers like Sands Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation and St. Francis Nursing Home are always hiring. The work is demanding but offers stable hours and the potential for overtime. This is where many new grads get their start.

6. Private Practices & Specialty Clinics: Think dermatology, orthopedics, and cardiology. These are smaller, often family-like environments. You’ll build strong relationships with providers and patients. Finding these jobs often relies on networking and checking local practice websites directly, as they may not always post on major job boards.

Hiring Trend Insight: Post-pandemic, there’s a noticeable push for LPNs in home health and hospice. Companies like VITAS Healthcare (hospice) and Amedisys (home health) have a strong presence. These roles offer more autonomy but require a valid driver’s license and the ability to work independently.

Getting Licensed in FL

If you’re coming from another state, the first step is to have your credentials verified. The Florida Board of Nursing (under the Department of Health) is the governing body.

For Out-of-State LPNs:
You must apply for licensure by endorsement. The process involves:

1. Verification: Submit verification of your original licensure from your home state. They must send it directly to the Florida Board.
2. Background Check: You’ll need to complete a fingerprint background check. The cost is approximately $85-$100.
3. Application Fee: The current application fee is $175 (subject to change).
4. Education: You must have graduated from an approved nursing program. Your school must send official transcripts directly to the Florida Board.
5. NCLEX-PN: If your original license is from a compact state (NLC) and you’re establishing Florida as your primary state of residence, you may not need to test again. If not, you may need to take the NCLEX-PN exam, which costs $200.

Timeline: The entire process can take 4 to 8 weeks if all documents are submitted correctly. Delays often happen due to missing verifications or background check issues. Start this process before you move, if possible.

For New Graduates from Florida Programs:
You’ll apply for an initial license. The process is similar: application ($175), background check ($85-$100), and passing the NCLEX-PN ($200). Florida schools are excellent and have high pass rates.

Insider Tip: Florida is part of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). If you hold a multi-state license from another eNLC state, you can practice in Florida without getting a Florida-specific license, as long as Florida is your primary state of residence. This is a huge advantage for travelers or those living near state lines.

Best Neighborhoods for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPNs)

Where you live will define your daily life—commute, cost, and community. Daytona Beach offers distinct vibes.

1. Downtown/Beachside (Barrier Island): The heart of the action. You’re minutes from the ocean, with walkable access to restaurants and events. Commute to Halifax Health or AdventHealth is under 15 minutes. Rent Estimate: $1,300 - $1,600/month for a 1BR. It’s lively but can be noisy and expensive. Ideal for a young professional who wants to be in the mix.

2. Beachside (South of Daytona Beach): Includes areas like Daytona Beach Shores and Ponce Inlet. Quieter, more residential, and family-oriented. Still close to the hospitals. Rent Estimate: $1,200 - $1,450/month. The trade-off is you might be more reliant on a car for groceries and nightlife.

3. Port Orange: A major suburb just south of Daytona, considered very desirable for families. Excellent schools, more green space, and a strong community feel. Commute to the main hospitals is 15-20 minutes. Rent Estimate: $1,100 - $1,300/month. This is where many healthcare professionals put down roots.

4. Ormond Beach (North of Daytona): Similar to Port Orange but with a slightly more upscale, established feel. Known for its historic homes and scenic beach. A great commute to Halifax Health (the main campus is in Ormond). Rent Estimate: $1,150 - $1,400/month. A fantastic balance of tranquility and proximity.

5. Deland (West of Daytona): More of a small-town feel, home to Stetson University. It’s growing quickly but retains charm. Commute to Daytona hospitals is 25-35 minutes, which can be a drawback for shift work. Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,200/month. A good option if you want more space and lower rent and don’t mind the drive.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Staying an LPN for your entire career is a valid choice, but Daytona Beach offers clear pathways for advancement if you choose to grow.

• Specialty Premiums: While base salary growth can be slow, specializing can increase your value. IV certification (common in hospitals), wound care certification (critical in long-term care), or geriatric certification can make you a top candidate. Some employers offer a pay differential of $1-$3/hour for these certifications.
• Advancement to RN: The most common path. As mentioned, Halifax Health and Daytona State College offer robust LPN-to-RN bridge programs. Moving from LPN to RN in this market can increase your earning potential by $10,000-$15,000/year immediately.
• Management & Education: With 10+ years of experience, you can move into roles like Charge Nurse, Nursing Supervisor, or even an educator role in a facility. These positions require strong leadership skills and often a bachelor’s degree.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 5% job growth is solid. The demand will be driven by the aging population and the expansion of outpatient services. The rise of telehealth may also create new LPN roles in remote patient monitoring and triage. However, LPNs may face some pressure from an increasing focus on RNs in acute care settings, making specialization even more critical.

The Verdict: Is Daytona Beach Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Affordable Living: Cost of living near the national average with access to beaches.	Lower-End Salary: Pay is slightly below the national average for LPNs.
Stable Job Market: Consistent demand in long-term care, home health, and hospitals.	Car-Dependent: Public transit is limited; you need a reliable vehicle.
Outdoor Lifestyle: Year-round outdoor activities, from beach walks to park concerts.	Tourist Season Traffic: From Spring Break to major events, traffic can be intense.
Major Employers: Clear career paths at Halifax and AdventHealth.	Limited High-End Specialties: Fewer niche, high-paying specialties compared to major metros.
No State Income Tax: Helps stretch your paycheck further.	Hurricane Season: Risk of severe weather from June to November.

Final Recommendation:
Daytona Beach is an excellent choice for LPNs who prioritize a balanced lifestyle and affordability over maximum earning potential. It’s ideal if you love the outdoors, want a manageable commute, and are looking for a stable career in a community-focused setting. It’s a great place to start your career, gain experience, and potentially advance to an RN, all without the financial pressure of a major metro area. If you’re a highly specialized LPN seeking top-tier salaries and cutting-edge medical environments, you may find more opportunity in Tampa or Orlando. But for the vast majority of LPNs seeking a good quality of life alongside a steady job, Daytona Beach delivers.

FAQs

Q: Is the job market saturated for LPNs in Daytona Beach?
A: Not saturated, but competitive. With 164 jobs in a metro of 82,493, openings are steady. The key is flexibility. Being open to shift work (nights, weekends), long-term care, or home health will make you highly employable.

Q: Do I need to know Spanish to work as an LPN here?
A: It’s not a strict requirement, but it’s a significant advantage. Volusia County has a growing Hispanic population. Being bilingual will make you a more attractive candidate, especially for patient-facing roles in clinics, home health, and public health settings.

Q: What’s the cost of living really like compared to the data?
A: The data is accurate on average, but your personal cost can vary. Housing is the biggest variable. If you find a roommate or a place in Port Orange rather than Beachside, you can save $200-$300/month. The Cost of Living Index of 98.7 is helpful, but Florida-specific costs like high car insurance and homeowners insurance are real factors not fully captured in that index.

Q: Are there opportunities for per-diem or travel nursing as an LPN?
A: Absolutely. Daytona is a popular destination for travel nurses, especially during "snowbird season" (winter). Local hospitals and agencies often seek per-diem LPNs to cover shifts and leaves of absence. This can be a great way to boost your income above the median salary.

Q: How important is networking in this market?
A: Very important. The healthcare community in Daytona is relatively tight-knit. Joining local chapters of the Florida Nurses Association or attending events at Daytona State College can lead to job leads. Many positions, especially in private practices or smaller facilities, are filled through word-of-mouth before they’re ever posted online.