Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Dothan, AL

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) considering a move to Dothan, Alabama.

---

If you're an LPN looking for a place where your skills are in high demand, your paycheck stretches further, and life moves at a manageable pace, put Dothan, Alabama on your radar. Known as the "Peanut Capital of the World," this Southeast Alabama hub offers a unique blend of small-town charm and a surprisingly robust healthcare ecosystem. As someone who has watched this city's medical sector grow over the decades, I can tell you that Dothan is a practical choice for nurses who value community, affordability, and opportunity.

This guide breaks down the real numbers, the local players, and the day-to-day life you can expect as an LPN in Dothan.

The Salary Picture: Where Dothan Stands

Let's get straight to the numbers. The financial reality for an LPN in Dothan is solid, especially when you factor in the city's low cost of living. The median salary for an LPN in the Dothan metro area is $52,702/year, which translates to a hourly rate of $25.34/hour. While this is slightly below the national average of $54,620/year, it's crucial to understand the context. Dothan's cost of living is 11.7% below the U.S. average, meaning your dollar goes significantly further here than in most other cities.

The job market is stable and growing. The Dothan metro area currently has 143 LPN jobs available, with a 10-year job growth projection of 5%. This isn't explosive growth, but it's steady, indicating a consistent need for skilled nurses without the fierce competition you might find in larger metropolitan areas.

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

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary Range
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$45,000 - $49,000
Mid-Career (3-7 years)	$51,000 - $56,000
Senior (8-15 years)	$56,000 - $62,000
Expert/Specialized (15+ years)	$63,000+

Insider Tip: Specializing in geriatrics or podiatry (a nod to Dothan's agricultural base) can push you toward the higher end of these ranges. Facilities often pay a premium for LPNs with certifications in wound care or IV therapy.

When we compare Dothan to other Alabama cities, the picture becomes clearer. While Birmingham and Montgomery may offer slightly higher nominal salaries, they come with a significantly higher cost of living. For an LPN, Dothan often provides the best balance of income and affordability in the state.

City	Median LPN Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg = 100)
Dothan	$52,702	88.3
Birmingham	$54,430	92.1
Montgomery	$53,200	90.5
Mobile	$52,100	93.0

Data sources: BLS OES, BestPlaces.net

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Now, let's translate that median salary into a real-world monthly budget. Using the median salary of $52,702/year, your take-home pay after federal taxes, Alabama state tax (5%), and FICA will be approximately $3,350/month.

Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown for a single LPN in Dothan:

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Gross Pay	$4,392	$52,702 / 12 months
Take-Home Pay	~$3,350	After taxes & deductions
Rent (1BR Average)	$739	Citywide average
Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet)	$200	Varies by season
Car Payment/Insurance	$450	Essential in Dothan
Groceries	$350
Health Insurance (if not employer)	$300
Savings/Retirement	$500	15% of take-home
Discretionary Spending	$811	Gas, entertainment, etc.
Total Expenses	~$3,350

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. With a take-home of $3,350 and median rent at $739, you have significant room to save for a down payment. The median home price in Dothan is around $180,000. A 20% down payment is $36,000. By saving $700/month (well within the budget above), you could save for a down payment in about 4 years. Many local lenders offer first-time homebuyer programs with lower down payment requirements.

Where the Jobs Are: Dothan's Major Employers

Dothan's healthcare landscape is anchored by a few major players, with several smaller clinics and specialty practices. The hiring trend is stable, with a constant need for LPNs in long-term care, home health, and outpatient settings.

1. Southeast Health (formerly Flowers Hospital): This is the city's largest medical center and a primary employer for LPNs. They operate a 370-bed facility with a wide range of services. LPNs are often hired for medical-surgical floors, the emergency department (as techs), and outpatient clinics. Insider Tip: Southeast Health is part of the larger Ascension network, which can offer pathways for career mobility.

2. HCA Florida West Florida Hospital (Dothan Campus): Located in the Ross Clinic building, this facility focuses on outpatient surgery and specialty care. It's a great spot for LPNs seeking a predictable, Monday-Friday schedule in a fast-paced but controlled environment.

3. Dothan Health & Rehab: A major long-term care facility in the city, this is a prime employer for LPNs. The work is demanding but offers consistent hours and the chance to build deep relationships with residents. The demand here is perpetually high.

4. Home Health Agencies (Heart of Hospice, Amedisys): Dothan has several home health and hospice agencies. This path offers incredible flexibility and autonomy. If you're self-motivated and prefer one-on-one patient care, this is a fantastic option. Insider Tip: A valid driver's license and a reliable car are non-negotiable for these roles.

5. Specialty Clinics (Dermatology, Orthopedics, Podiatry): Dothan's medical community is tightly knit. Specialty clinics like the Southeast Health Medical Group or private practices (e.g., Dothan Ear, Nose & Throat) often hire LPNs for front desk, MA duties, and patient triage. Given Dothan's agricultural economy, podiatry clinics are particularly busy and value LPNs with wound care experience.

6. Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH): The local county health department is a stable employer for public health nursing roles, which can include immunizations, well-child checks, and community outreach.

Getting Licensed in AL

If you're moving from another state, you'll need to secure an Alabama LPN license. The process is straightforward but requires attention to detail.

1. Education: You must graduate from an approved practical nursing program. The Alabama Board of Nursing (ABN) website has a full list.
2. NCLEX-PN Exam: Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). You must apply to the ABN for authorization to test.
3. Endorsement (for out-of-state nurses): If you already hold an LPN license in another state, you can apply for licensure by endorsement. You'll need to provide verification of your current license, proof of your education, and may need to show work experience. Alabama is not a compact state for LPNs, so endorsement is required.
4. Costs: The application fee for licensure by endorsement is $100. The NCLEX exam fee is $200. You may also need to pay for a background check (~$50).
5. Timeline: The entire process can take 4-8 weeks. Start your application as soon as you have a job offer in hand. The ABN is known for being efficient but thorough.

Resource: Alabama Board of Nursing (www.abn.alabama.gov)

Best Neighborhoods for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPNs)

Dothan is divided into several distinct areas, each with its own vibe and commute time to the major hospitals (most are clustered around Ross Clark Circle and Highway 84).

Neighborhood	Commute to Hospitals	Vibe & Lifestyle	Average 1BR Rent
East Dothan	10-15 minutes	Quiet, suburban, family-friendly. Close to schools and shopping.	$750
Westgate	5-10 minutes	Established, middle-class, tree-lined streets. Very central.	$775
Downtown	10 minutes	Revitalizing area with historic homes and new apartments. Walkable.	$850
Headland/Dothan South	15-20 minutes	More rural feel, larger lots, lower cost of living.	$650
Reeves Heights	10 minutes	Older, affordable, convenient to Southeast Health.	$700

Insider Tip: East Dothan and Westgate are the most popular choices for healthcare professionals due to their short commutes and safe, quiet environments. If you want to be closer to the growing downtown scene with more restaurants and events, consider the new apartment complexes near the Wiregrass Commons Mall.

The Long Game: Career Growth

An LPN license in Dothan is a solid foundation, but career growth requires intentional planning.

• Specialty Premiums: As mentioned, IV therapy and wound care certifications can add $2-4/hour to your base pay. Working in a specialty like dialysis or a busy orthopedic clinic also commands a premium.
• Advancement Paths: The most common path is to return to school to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Local options include Wallace Community College (very affordable) and Troy University Dothan. With an RN license, your salary potential jumps significantly.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 5% job growth rate is directly tied to Dothan's aging population. The Wiregrass region has a high percentage of residents over 65, ensuring long-term demand for LPNs in geriatric and home health care. The rise of outpatient services will also create new roles in clinics and procedural areas.

The Verdict: Is Dothan Right for You?

Dothan isn't for everyone. It's a place that rewards those who value community, affordability, and a slower pace over big-city amenities. Here's the final breakdown.

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your salary goes far, making home ownership realistic.	Limited Nightlife/Entertainment: Options are more family-oriented and quiet.
High Job Security: Steady demand in a stable market.	Car-Dependent: Public transit is limited; you'll need a vehicle.
Manageable Commute: No traffic jams; you're never far from work.	Lower Ceiling: Top-end LPN salaries are lower than in major metros.
Strong Community Feel: It's easy to get to know people and build a network.	Cultural Homogeneity: Less diversity than larger cities.

Final Recommendation: Dothan is an excellent choice for LPNs who are early to mid-career, looking to build financial stability, and who prefer a community-oriented lifestyle. It's particularly ideal for those with families or who are planning to buy their first home. If you're a new grad, the supportive environment and lower cost of living can provide a soft landing. If you're an expert LPN seeking the absolute highest salary or a bustling urban scene, you may find Dothan limiting. But for a balanced, sustainable nursing career, Dothan is a hidden gem in the Wiregrass.

FAQs

Q: What is the job market like for new LPN graduates in Dothan?
A: Very welcoming. Local healthcare employers actively recruit from the two-year programs at Wallace Community College and Lurleen B. Wallace Community College. Many facilities offer sign-on bonuses for new grads, often ranging from $2,000 to $5,000.

Q: Is there a high demand for night shift or weekend LPNs?
A: Yes. Long-term care facilities and hospitals have a constant need for weekend and night shift coverage. These shifts often come with a pay differential of $2.00 to $3.00 per hour.

Q: What are the licensing renewal requirements in Alabama?
A: LPN licenses expire every two years. You must complete 24 contact hours of continuing education (CE) during each renewal period. The renewal fee is $124.

Q: How is the healthcare community in Dothan?
A: It's close-knit. While there are multiple employers, the medical community is interconnected. Networking is easy, and word travels fast. A good reputation is your best asset.

Q: What's the best way to find an LPN job in Dothan online?
A: Check the career pages of Southeast Health and HCA Florida first. Also, look at Indeed and LinkedIn, but don't hesitate to contact local nursing homes and home health agencies directly—many don't post all openings online.

---