Median Salary
$50,989
Above National Avg
Hourly Wage
$24.51
Dollars / Hr
Workforce
N/A
Total Jobs
Growth
+3%
10-Year Outlook
Here is a comprehensive career guide for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) considering a move to Gresham, Oregon.
The Gresham, OR LPN Career Guide: A Local’s Perspective
Gresham sits in the shadow of the Cascades, offering a unique blend of suburban living and easy access to Portland. As a local, I’ve watched this city evolve from a quiet suburb into a distinct healthcare hub. For an LPN, Gresham represents a solid, stable market with a cost of living that’s manageable compared to Portland proper. This guide is your roadmap—data-driven, no fluff, and packed with the details you need to make an informed decision.
The Salary Picture: Where Gresham Stands
Let's start with the numbers that matter. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local market data, the financial picture for an LPN in Gresham is competitive, especially for the region. The median salary here sits at $55,701/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $26.78/hour. This is slightly above the national average of $54,620/year, a positive sign for local purchasing power.
The job market is steady, with approximately 221 LPN positions available in the metro area. The 10-year job growth projection is 5%, which is in line with national trends, ensuring continued demand.
Experience-Level Breakdown in Gresham
| Experience Level | Typical Responsibilities | Estimated Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | Basic patient care, medication administration, wound care under RN supervision. | $48,000 - $52,000 |
| Mid-Level (3-6 years) | Specialized care (geriatrics, pediatrics), mentorship of new LPNs, managing patient loads. | $53,000 - $59,000 |
| Senior (7-12 years) | Charge nurse duties, complex case management, leading teams in long-term care or clinics. | $60,000 - $65,000 |
| Expert (13+ years) | Educational roles, clinical supervisor, policy development, high-acuity specialty units. | $66,000 - $72,000+ |
Comparison to Other Oregon Cities
Gresham offers a compelling balance. Portland's median LPN salary is higher (closer to $58,000), but the cost of living is significantly steeper. In contrast, cities like Salem or Eugene have a lower median salary (around $52,000), but Gresham's proximity to Portland's healthcare network without the downtown price tag makes it a strategic choice.
📊 Compensation Analysis
📈 Earning Potential
Wage War Room
Real purchasing power breakdown
Select a city above to see who really wins the salary war.
The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent
The median salary of $55,701 looks good on paper, but what does it mean for your daily life? Let's break it down for a single LPN with no dependents.
Monthly Budget Breakdown (Median Salary $55,701)
| Category | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gross Monthly Income | $4,641 | Before taxes |
| Taxes (Fed, State, FICA) | -$1,020 | Approx. 22% effective rate |
| Net Monthly Income | $3,621 | Your take-home pay |
| Rent (1BR Average) | -$1,545 | Gresham average |
| Utilities | -$150 | Electricity, gas, water, internet |
| Groceries | -$300 | For one person |
| Transportation | -$250 | Gas, insurance, public transit |
| Healthcare/Insurance | -$200 | Employer subsidies often help |
| Debt/Student Loans | -$150 | Varies widely |
| Miscellaneous/Fun | -$250 | Eating out, entertainment |
| Remaining | $776 | For savings, emergencies, investing |
Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
With $776 in leftover income monthly, saving for a down payment is challenging but not impossible. The median home price in Gresham hovers around $450,000. A 20% down payment ($90,000) would take over 9 years to save at this rate without cutting other expenses. However, many local lenders offer FHA loans (3.5% down, ~$15,750), which is more attainable. As a single income earner, buying alone might be a stretch, but with a dual-income household, it becomes very feasible.
Insider Tip: Many Gresham employers, like Legacy Health, offer attractive first-time homebuyer programs and down payment assistance for healthcare workers. It's a key benefit worth asking about during interviews.
💰 Monthly Budget
📋 Snapshot
Where the Jobs Are: Gresham's Major Employers
Gresham's healthcare scene is anchored by a mix of large hospital systems, specialized clinics, and long-term care facilities. The demand is consistent, particularly in geriatrics and home health.
- Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center: The city's primary hospital. They have a dedicated Rehabilitation Unit and Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) where LPNs are crucial. Hiring is steady, often for night and weekend shifts.
- Providence Gresham Clinic & Providence Portland Medical Center (Nearby): While the main campus is in Portland, the Gresham clinic is a major employer. They hire LPNs for their Family Medicine and Specialty clinics (like Orthopedics and Cardiology).
- Mt. Hood Medical Center (AdventHealth): A key competitor to Legacy, offering a range of outpatient and inpatient services. Their surgical center and urgent care clinics are frequent LPN employers.
- Gresham Senior Living & Rehabilitation: A large, well-regarded skilled nursing facility. They consistently hire LPNs for long-term care and post-acute rehab. This is a prime spot for new grads to gain experience.
- Home Instead Senior Care (Gresham Franchise): For those preferring home health, this is a major local agency. Demand for in-home LPNs for medication management and wound care is high, especially in East County's aging communities.
- Multnomah County Health Department: The Rockwood Community Health Center, located in Gresham, serves a diverse population. LPNs here work in public health, immunizations, and community outreach—a great path for those interested in population health.
Hiring Trends: There's a growing emphasis on gerontology and home health due to Gresham's aging population. Skills in diabetes management, wound care, and palliative care will make your resume stand out. Most employers prefer candidates with CPR/BLS certification and Oregon LPN licensure in hand.
Getting Licensed in OR
Oregon has a straightforward but strict licensing process managed by the Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN).
Requirements & Costs:
- Education: Graduate from a state-approved LPN program (typically 12-18 months).
- Exam: Pass the NCLEX-PN. The exam fee is $200.
- Background Check: A fingerprint-based criminal history check costs $65.
- Application & License Fee: The initial license application fee is $140.
- Total Estimated Cost: $405 (excluding tuition and books).
- Timeline: After graduation, you can apply for a temporary permit to work under supervision while waiting for exam results. The full license is typically issued within 2-3 weeks of passing the NCLEX.
Oregon-Specific Note: Oregon is a compact state (NLC), meaning if you hold a multi-state license from another compact state, you can practice here without additional licensure. However, if you're moving from a non-compact state, you must apply for Oregon licensure by endorsement.
Best Neighborhoods for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)s
Your commute and lifestyle matter. Gresham has distinct neighborhoods, each with its own vibe and price point.
| Neighborhood | Vibe & Commute | Rent Estimate (1BR) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Historic Downtown | Walkable, charming, near Mt. Hood Community College. 15-20 min to Legacy. | $1,450 - $1,600 | New grads who want a lively, central feel. |
| Rockwood | Diverse, family-oriented, close to the Rockwood Health Center. 10-15 min to most jobs. | $1,300 - $1,450 | Those seeking community and affordability. |
| Gresham Buttes | Quiet, suburban, hilly with views. 20-25 min commute. | $1,550 - $1,700 | Established LPNs with families, seeking tranquility. |
| East Gresham (Twin Oaks) | Near the Columbia River Gorge. More rural feel, longer commute. | $1,400 - $1,550 | Outdoor enthusiasts who don't mind a drive. |
| Sunnyside | Central, convenient, mix of older homes and apartments. 10-15 min to hospitals. | $1,500 - $1,650 | Practical, no-fuss living with easy access. |
Insider Tip: Traffic on the I-84 corridor can be brutal. If you work at Legacy Mount Hood or elsewhere east of downtown, living in Sunnyside or Rockwood will save you significant commute time versus living in the western edge of the city.
The Long Game: Career Growth
An LPN license in Oregon is a solid foundation, but advancement requires strategic moves.
Specialty Premiums: While base pay is set, you can increase earnings by seeking positions in:
- Home Health & Hospice: Often pays $2-$4/hour more per visit.
- Correctional Facilities: The Oregon Department of Corrections offers competitive pay and benefits.
- Psychiatric/Mental Health: Specialized units in hospitals or clinics command higher rates.
Advancement Paths:
- LPN to RN Bridge: Oregon has numerous accelerated bridge programs (e.g., at Mt. Hood Community College or Portland Community College). This is the most common path to a significant salary bump and expanded scope of practice.
- Clinical Ladder Programs: Some hospital systems have LPN clinical ladders, where you can advance from LPN I to LPN II or III based on experience, education, and mentorship, with corresponding pay increases.
- Management in Long-Term Care: With experience, LPNs can become unit managers or assistant directors of nursing in SNFs, a path that leverages clinical expertise.
10-Year Outlook (5% Growth): The 5% growth is driven by an aging population and the healthcare needs of East Multnomah County. While the growth rate is moderate, the stability is high. LPNs with specialized skills will always be in demand, and the bridge to RN remains the most lucrative long-term investment.
The Verdict: Is Gresham Right for You?
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Salary above national average with a lower cost of living than Portland. | Traffic congestion on I-84, especially during peak hours. |
| Stable, diverse job market across hospitals, clinics, and SNFs. | Rent is rising and can consume a large portion of income. |
| Proximity to outdoor recreation (Columbia River Gorge, Mt. Hood). | Limited nightlife compared to Portland; it's a quieter city. |
| Family-friendly suburbs with good schools and community. | Competitive market for prime jobs at major hospitals. |
| Oregon's strong nursing support (BON, advocacy groups). | Weather can be overcast and rainy for 8+ months a year. |
Final Recommendation: Gresham is an excellent choice for LPNs who value work-life balance, outdoor access, and a stable career. It's particularly well-suited for those in the mid-career stage who can afford the rent and are looking to buy a home within a few years. New grads will find a supportive environment to build experience, especially in long-term care. If your priority is maximizing salary and nightlife, you might look closer to downtown Portland. But for a sustainable, community-focused nursing career, Gresham is a strong contender.
FAQs
Q: Is experience in specialties like pediatrics or surgery valuable in Gresham?
A: Yes, but with a caveat. While major hospitals have these units (Legacy Mt. Hood has a pediatric clinic and surgical services), the bulk of LPN openings are in geriatrics and primary care. Your best bet is to gain broad experience first, then specialize.
Q: How does the cost of living compare to Portland?
A: Gresham's cost of living is about 5-10% lower than Portland's, primarily due to more affordable housing. However, utilities and groceries are nearly identical. Your $26.78/hour will stretch further here than in the city center.
Q: What's the job interview process like locally?
A: Expect a mix of clinical scenarios and behavioral questions. Local employers value familiarity with Pacific Northwest healthcare systems. Mentioning any experience with OHSU or Kaiser, even as a student, is a plus. Always research the specific hospital's mission (e.g., Legacy's community focus).
Q: Can I work in Portland with an Oregon LPN license?
A: Absolutely. Your Oregon license is valid statewide. Many Gresham-based LPNs commute to Portland for specialized roles, and vice-versa. The Jobs in Metro: 221 figure includes the entire Portland metro, giving you flexibility.
Q: What's the best way to network as a new LPN in Gresham?
A: Join the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) and attend local chapter meetings. The Mt. Hood Community College nursing program has strong alumni networks. Also, consider volunteering at clinics like the Rockwood Health Center to get your foot in the door.
Sources:
- Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2023.
- Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN) - Licensing Information.
- U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey - Gresham Metro Population.
- Zillow & RentCafe - Gresham Rental Market Data Q2 2024.
- Cost of Living Index - Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER).
Other Careers in Gresham
Explore More in Gresham
Dive deeper into the local economy and lifestyle.