Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Idaho Falls, ID

Of course. Here is a comprehensive career guide for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in Idaho Falls, ID.

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The Salary Picture: Where Idaho Falls Stands

Let’s get straight to the numbers, because that’s what matters when you’re planning a move. For an LPN in Idaho Falls, the financial picture is a story of affordability over high-end earnings. The median salary here is $52,965/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $25.46/hour. While this is slightly below the national average of $54,620/year, the low cost of living in eastern Idaho more than makes up for the difference in your day-to-day life.

Idaho Falls is part of the Idaho Falls metro area, which has a population of about 67,996. The job market for LPNs is stable but not explosive; there are approximately 135 LPN jobs in the metro, with a projected 10-year job growth of 5%. This isn't a boomtown for nursing, but it’s a reliable, steady market where skilled and reliable LPNs can find consistent work.

Here’s how salary typically breaks down by experience level in this region:

Experience Level	Typical Yearly Salary (Idaho Falls)
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$46,000 - $50,000
Mid-Career (3-7 years)	$52,000 - $58,000
Senior (8-15 years)	$58,000 - $65,000
Expert/Lead (15+ years)	$65,000+

For context, let’s compare Idaho Falls to other major cities within the state:

City	Median Salary (LPN)	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)
Idaho Falls	$52,965	89.9
Boise	$54,500	103.5
Coeur d'Alene	$53,800	108.2
Twin Falls	$51,200	92.1
Pocatello	$50,900	88.5

As you can see, Idaho Falls offers a competitive salary for the region, especially when paired with its significantly lower cost of living compared to Boise or Coeur d'Alene. You won't get rich as an LPN in Idaho Falls, but you can live comfortably.

Insider Tip: While $25.46/hour is the median, shift differentials are common. Night, weekend, and holiday shifts can add $2-$4/hour to your base pay. If you're willing to work off-peak hours, you can significantly boost your annual income.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's build a realistic monthly budget for an LPN earning the median salary of $52,965/year.

Assumptions for Calculation:

• Gross Monthly Income: $52,965 / 12 = $4,413.75
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, State, FICA): ~22% (This includes Idaho's flat income tax rate of 6.5%)
• Take-Home Pay: ~$3,442.70/month
• Average 1BR Rent: $903/month (Idaho Falls average)

Monthly Budget Breakdown:

• Take-Home Pay: $3,442.70
• Rent (1BR Apartment): -$903.00
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet): -$200.00
• Groceries: -$350.00
• Car Payment/Insurance/Gas: -$400.00
• Health Insurance (if not covered by employer): -$150.00
• Student Loans/Debt: -$200.00
• Retirement Savings (5%): -$184.00
• Discretionary Spending (Entertainment, etc.): -$555.70

After all essential expenses and moderate savings, you're left with a comfortable cushion. The key is Idaho's low housing costs. In a city like Boise, where 1BR rent averages over $1,400, that same budget would be stretched incredibly thin.

Can they afford to buy a home?
Yes, absolutely. This is where Idaho Falls truly shines for a single-income earner like an LPN. The median home price in Idaho Falls is approximately $320,000. With a 20% down payment ($64,000), a 30-year mortgage at a 7% interest rate would have a monthly payment of around $1,700 (including property tax and insurance). While this is a stretch on a single LPN salary, it's achievable with a dual-income household or after a few years of career growth and savings. Many LPNs in the area do own homes, often within 5-10 years of starting their careers.

Where the Jobs Are: Idaho Falls's Major Employers

The healthcare landscape in Idaho Falls is dominated by a few major players, with a strong network of long-term care and specialty clinics. As an LPN, you are a vital part of this ecosystem.

1. Mountain View Hospital: This is the largest private hospital in the region and a major employer. They have a wide range of units, including medical-surgical, orthopedics, and a busy emergency department. They are known for investing in employee training and offering a clear clinical ladder for LPNs. Hiring trends are consistently steady, especially for LPNs willing to work in med-surg.

2. Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center (EIRMC): A Level II trauma center and the other major hospital in town. EIRMC is part of the HCA Healthcare system, which offers benefits and transfer opportunities. They have a strong ICU and labor & delivery unit, though LPN roles there are often in pre/post-op or as patient care techs with LPN scope. They frequently hire for their long-term care and rehab floors.

3. Eastern Idaho Public Health District: This is a fantastic option for LPNs looking to move away from bedside hospital care. Roles here include school nurse support, immunization clinics, and community health outreach. The hours are typically Monday-Friday, no weekends or holidays. Competition for these jobs is high due to the desirable schedule.

4. BeeHive Homes of Idaho Falls: A network of local assisted living facilities. This is a prime environment for LPNs who prefer a smaller, home-like setting. You'll manage medication, coordinate with families, and provide direct care. BeeHive is a growing brand in the area, so new facilities often open, creating job opportunities.

5. Teton Nursing & Rehabilitation (in nearby Rigby, 15 min drive): One of the largest skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) in the region. SNFs are consistently the largest employers of LPNs. The work is demanding but offers a chance to develop deep expertise in geriatric and rehabilitative care. They often have sign-on bonuses for LPNs.

6. Idaho Falls Clinic & Surgery Center (IFCSC): An outpatient surgical center. LPNs here work in pre-op and post-anesthesia care units (PACU). It's a fast-paced, Monday-Friday environment with no on-call duties. This is a highly sought-after specialty.

Hiring Trends: The demand is most consistent in long-term care (SNFs and assisted living) and medical-surgical hospital units. Specialty areas like OR or outpatient surgery are competitive. Hospitals often have tuition reimbursement programs for LPNs who want to bridge to an RN, a very common path in Idaho Falls.

Getting Licensed in ID

If you're moving from another state, you'll need to get licensed through the Idaho Board of Nursing. The process is straightforward but takes time.

For an LPN already licensed in another state (Compact State):
Idaho is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). If your primary state of residence is another compact state (e.g., Utah, Wyoming, Montana), you can practice in Idaho using your existing multi-state license. You do not need to apply for a new license. You can verify your status and the compact states on the Board's website.

For an LPN already licensed in a NON-compact state:
You will need to apply for licensure by endorsement.

1. Application: Submit an online application through the Idaho Board of Nursing website.
2. Verification: Request verification of your original license from the state where you were first licensed. Many states use the NURSYS system, which simplifies this.
3. Fees: The application fee is $75, and the background check fee is $30. Total: $105.
4. No Exam Needed: If you are already a licensed LPN, you do not need to retake the NCLEX-PN.
5. Timeline: The process can take 4-8 weeks from the time the Board receives all required documents. Start this process at least two months before your planned move.

For a new graduate or someone needing to take the NCLEX-PN:

1. Education: Graduate from a state-approved LPN program.
2. Application for Licensure by Examination: Submit your application to the Idaho Board of Nursing.
3. Fees: Application fee ($75) and background check ($30).
4. NCLEX-PN: Once approved, you will register for and take the NCLEX-PN.
5. Timeline: From graduation to holding a license can take 3-4 months.

Resource: Idaho Board of Nursing - https://ibn.idaho.gov/

Best Neighborhoods for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPNs)

Idaho Falls is a sprawling city, and your commute can vary. Here are 4-5 neighborhoods to consider, balancing commute, lifestyle, and rent.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Estimated 1BR Rent
Downtown / Historic District	Walkable, charming, close to restaurants and the greenbelt. 5-10 min commute to EIRMC. 15-20 min to Mountain View.	$950 - $1,150
Ammon (East Side)	Family-friendly, newer developments, great schools. 10-15 min commute to both hospitals. A popular choice for healthcare workers.	$900 - $1,050
South Idaho Falls	More affordable, established neighborhoods. 15-20 min commute to hospitals, but can be longer during peak traffic on I-15.	$800 - $950
North Side / Near EIRMC	Convenient for EIRMC employees. Mix of older and newer homes. Quiet, residential feel. 5 min to EIRMC, 15-20 min to Mountain View.	$850 - $1,000

Insider Tip: If you work at Mountain View, living in Ammon or South Idaho Falls is convenient. If you work at EIRMC, the North Side or Downtown areas offer the shortest commutes. Traffic is generally light, but the 15-minute drive can easily turn into 25 minutes during rush hour if you're crossing the city.

The Long Game: Career Growth

While the base salary for an LPN in Idaho Falls is modest, there are clear paths for career advancement and increased earnings.

Specialty Premiums: While not as formal as in large metropolitan areas, LPNs with specific skills can command higher pay or find more desirable positions.

• IV Certification: Idaho LPNs are permitted to start and monitor peripheral IVs (with specific training). LPNs with documented IV certification are highly valued in hospital and infusion settings.
• Wound Care: Expertise in wound care is a significant asset in long-term care and hospital settings.
• Geriatrics: With an aging population, deep experience in geriatric care makes you a top candidate for supervisory roles in SNFs and assisted living.

Advancement Paths:

1. Bridge to RN: This is the most common and impactful career move. Several local colleges (like the College of Eastern Idaho) offer LPN-to-RN programs. With an RN license, your salary potential jumps significantly (median RN salary in Idaho is around $75,000+). Many hospitals offer tuition reimbursement to support this path.
2. Lead LPN / Charge Nurse: In SNFs and some hospital units, experienced LPNs can take on leadership roles, overseeing a team of CNAs and other LPNs. This comes with a pay bump.
3. Case Management/Utilization Review: With experience, some LPNs transition to off-site roles in insurance or hospital administration, reviewing patient cases. These are often Monday-Friday jobs.
4. Education: Experienced LPNs can become clinical instructors for local CNA or LPN programs.

10-Year Outlook: The 5% job growth is a solid indicator. The aging population of Idaho will continue to drive demand in long-term care, home health, and chronic disease management—core areas for LPNs. While the field will remain competitive, LPNs who specialize and are willing to work in high-need areas will have excellent job security. The move from LPN to RN remains the single most effective way to increase your earning potential and scope of practice in the long term.

The Verdict: Is Idaho Falls Right for You?

Ultimately, the decision is personal. Here’s a clear breakdown of the pros and cons.

Pros	Cons
Excellent Affordability: Your salary goes much further here. Homeownership is a realistic goal.	Lower Ceiling: Salaries for LPNs are not as high as in coastal states or major metros.
Stable Job Market: Large employers provide consistent opportunities, especially in primary care settings.	Limited Specialty Roles: Fewer niche opportunities (e.g., pediatric oncology, high-risk L&D).
Low Commute & Traffic: Easy to get around the city, saving time and money.	Isolation: It's a 2.5-hour drive to Salt Lake City. Fewer major cultural events or diverse dining options.
Community Feel: A strong sense of community and a slower pace of life.	Weather: Winters are cold and long, with significant snow. Summers are hot.
Gateway to Nature: Unparalleled access to Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and world-class fishing/hiking.	Political Environment: Idaho is a deeply conservative state, which may not align with everyone's personal values.

Final Recommendation:
Idaho Falls is an ideal choice for LPNs who prioritize work-life balance and financial stability over a high-powered career. If you are looking for a place where you can afford a home, enjoy a short commute, and spend your weekends fishing on the Snake River or hiking in the mountains, Idaho Falls is a fantastic fit. It's particularly well-suited for new graduates, those looking to start a family, or experienced LPNs seeking a less stressful environment.

It may be less suitable for LPNs seeking highly specialized, fast-paced hospital roles in cutting-edge specialties or those who thrive in the energy and diversity of a large metropolitan area.

FAQs

1. I'm a new LPN graduate. How hard is it to find my first job in Idaho Falls?
It's very manageable. Hospitals and, especially, long-term care facilities are often looking for new graduates. They may offer residency programs or extended orientation. Be flexible on shift and setting (start in a SNF if you can't get a hospital job right away) to get your foot in the door and gain experience.

2. Is Idaho a compact state for LPNs?
Yes, Idaho is a member of the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) for both LPNs and RNs. If your primary state of residence is another compact state, you can work in Idaho with your multi-state license without any extra steps.

3. What is the cost of living really like?
It's high relative to the local wages but low compared to the rest of the U.S. The biggest savings are in housing. Groceries and utilities are close to the national average. Gas is typically cheaper than the national average. The overall cost of living index of 89.9 means you get about 10% more purchasing power than the average American.

4. What are the continuing education (CE) requirements for Idaho LPNs?
You need 15 contact hours of continuing education every two years to renew your license. At least 10 of those hours must be in nursing topics. You can complete these online, through your employer, or at local conferences. The cost is typically $100-$300 every two years.

5. I'm an LPN from a non-compact state. How long will it take to get my Idaho license?
Plan for a minimum of 8 weeks. The Idaho Board of Nursing processes applications in the order they are received and are complete. Delays often happen if you don't send in your license verification from your original state promptly. Start the application process at least two months before you plan to move and start working.