Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Irving, TX

The Salary Picture: Where Irving Stands

As a local who's watched the Dallas-Fort Worth healthcare scene for years, I can tell you that Irving offers a solid, if not spectacular, salary landscape for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). Let's get straight to the numbers. The median salary for an LPN in Irving is $55,160/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $26.52/hour. This is a hair above the national average for LPNs, which sits at $54,620/year. While it’s not a massive premium, it’s a meaningful one, especially when you factor in the local job market, which boasts approximately 508 LPN positions in the metro area at any given time. The 10-year job growth projection is a steady 5%, indicating stable demand rather than a boom-and-bust cycle.

To give you a clearer picture, let's break this down by experience. Please note, these are estimates based on local market data and BLS trends, as specific experience-level breakdowns for Irving are not publicly published.

Experience-Level Salary Breakdown (Irving, TX)

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Factors
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$48,000 - $52,000	New grads, limited specialty certifications. Often start in nursing homes or large hospital systems.
Mid-Career (3-8 years)	$55,160 - $62,000	Hits the median. Specialized skills (e.g., wound care, IV therapy) start to command higher pay.
Senior (9-15 years)	$63,000 - $70,000+	Leadership roles, charge nurse duties, or high-demand specialties (dialysis, oncology).
Expert (15+ years)	$70,000+	Often in education, management, or highly specialized clinical roles. Can reach $75k+ in certain settings.

Comparison to Other Texas Cities:
Irving sits in a very competitive middle ground in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

• Dallas: Salaries are slightly higher (~$56,000) due to a higher cost of living and more major hospital systems, but the commute can be brutal.
• Fort Worth: Similar to Irving, with a median around $54,500. The job market is robust but slightly less dense than Dallas.
• Austin: The capital pays more (~$57,000), but the cost of living is significantly higher, outpacing the salary gain.
• San Antonio: Salaries are lower (~$52,000), but the cost of living is also more affordable.

Insider Tip: The $26.52/hour starting point is a key number. Many local employers, especially large hospital systems, use a "clinical ladder" or "differential" system. Night shift, weekend, and holiday differentials can add $3 to $5 per hour to your base pay, which is a common way to boost your earnings quickly.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's do the math. With a gross annual salary of $55,160, your monthly gross income is $4,597. After federal taxes, FICA (Social Security and Medicare), and Texas state tax (which is 0%), your take-home pay will be approximately $3,700 - $3,800 per month, depending on your withholdings.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Based on $55,160/year)

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Monthly Take-Home Pay	$3,750	(After ~20% for taxes/withholdings)
Rent (1BR Average)	$1,291	The city-wide average.
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water)	$150	Varies by season; summer AC is expensive.
Groceries	$350	Texas has no state income tax, but groceries aren't exempt from sales tax.
Car Payment/Insurance	$400	Essential in Irving; public transit is limited.
Health Insurance	$200	Employer-sponsored plans will be cheaper.
Miscellaneous (Food, Fun, etc.)	$500
Total Expenses	$2,891
Remaining for Savings/Debt	~$859	This is your buffer for student loans, retirement, emergencies.

Can they afford to buy a home?
This is the big question for many considering Texas. The median home price in Irving is approximately $375,000. With an 800 credit score and a 20% down payment ($75,000), your monthly mortgage payment (PITI) would be around $1,800 - $2,000. This is over 50% of your take-home pay for a single-income household, which is not financially advisable. A dual-income household or a significant down payment (closer to 30-40%) would be needed to make homeownership comfortable on this salary. Renting is the more realistic and financially prudent choice for a single LPN in Irving.

Where the Jobs Are: Irving's Major Employers

Irving is a healthcare hub within the DFW metroplex. The job market is diverse, spanning large hospital systems, specialty clinics, and long-term care facilities. Here’s a look at the major players and where to find those 508 jobs.

1. Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Irving: A major anchor. This 250-bed hospital is part of the massive Texas Health Resources system. They frequently hire LPNs for med-surg, orthopedics, and post-surgical units. Hiring trends favor LPNs with IV and wound care certification. This is a prime location for new grads looking for hospital experience.

2. Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Irving: Another top-tier hospital system. Baylor is known for its strong nursing culture and continuing education benefits. They actively hire LPNs for their surgical floors and same-day surgery centers. Pro tip: Check their career portal for "LPN" specifically, as some postings are for RNs only.

3. The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) Health Services: Located just north of Irving in Richardson, this is a unique employer. The campus health center hires LPNs for student care. It’s a M-F, daytime schedule with no weekends or holidays—a huge perk if you value work-life balance. Salaries are competitive, but the environment is more routine.

4. The Dallas Medical Center (Irving Campus): Part of a smaller, community-focused hospital system. This can be a great place for LPNs to get more hands-on experience with less bureaucracy than the mega-systems. They often have openings in their ER observation units and skilled nursing facilities.

5. The Medical City Children's Hospital (Irving): While the main hospital is in Dallas, their outpatient clinics in Irving are a growing source of LPN jobs. This is a path into pediatrics without the intensity of a full pediatric ER. Specialized training in pediatric vital signs and family communication is a plus here.

6. Local Long-Term Care & Rehabilitation Facilities: Companies like SavaSeniorCare and Avalon Health and Rehabilitation have facilities in and around Irving. These are often the easiest points of entry for new LPNs. The hiring demand is high, but turnover is also higher. Expect a fast-paced, physically demanding environment.

Hiring Trends: The demand is strongest for LPNs with IV certification and wound care certification. Many employers will pay for you to get these certifications after hire, but having them upfront makes you a more competitive candidate. The market for home health and private duty LPNs is also growing, offering more autonomy.

Getting Licensed in TX

Texas has a straightforward licensure process, but it’s non-negotiable. You must be licensed by the Texas Board of Nursing (BON).

Requirements & Costs:

1. Graduate from an approved LPN program: Must be a state-approved vocational nursing program. There are several in the DFW area, including North Lake College and Tarrant County College.
2. Pass the NCLEX-PN: The National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses. The exam fee is approximately $200.
3. Apply for Licensure by Examination: The Texas BON application fee is $100.
4. Background Check: A fingerprinting process is required, costing about $40.
5. Total Estimated Cost: ~$340 for the core licensure fees.

Timeline to Get Started:

• If you're a new graduate: You can graduate, apply for your temporary permit, and schedule the NCLEX. The process from graduation to holding your license can take 2-4 months.
• If you're licensed in another state: Texas is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). If your primary state of residence is another compact state, you can practice in Texas without a new license. If not, you'll need to apply for licensure by endorsement, which takes 1-3 months.

Insider Tip: The Texas BON website is your best friend. They have a detailed checklist for both new and out-of-state applicants. Don't delay your application; processing times can vary, especially during peak graduation seasons.

Best Neighborhoods for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)s

Where you live in Irving will heavily influence your commute, social life, and budget. Irving is a city of distinct neighborhoods.

1. Las Colinas (75038): This is the upscale, corporate hub. You'll find many new apartment complexes, walkable urban villages, and a higher price point. Rent for a 1BR is typically $1,500 - $1,800. The commute to Texas Health or Baylor is very short (5-15 mins). Best for young professionals who want a modern lifestyle and don't mind paying a premium for convenience.

2. Valley Ranch (75063): A master-planned community with a mix of apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes. It's quieter than Las Colinas, with plenty of parks and green spaces. Rent averages $1,300 - $1,600. Commutes to major hospitals are reasonable (15-25 mins). A great balance for those wanting a suburban feel without being too far from work.

3. Coppell/NE Irving (75019): Technically a separate city but borders Irving and is a popular area for healthcare workers. Excellent schools, family-friendly, and a strong community feel. Rent for a 1BR is slightly lower, around $1,200 - $1,450. The commute can be longer (20-35 mins) depending on traffic and your hospital location, but it's a trade-off for a quieter, more residential lifestyle.

4. Downtown Irving (The Heritage District) (75060): This area is experiencing a renaissance. You'll find older, more affordable apartments and a growing arts and food scene. Rent is the most competitive here, averaging $1,100 - $1,300. Commute times vary widely (10-30 mins) based on your specific job location. Ideal for those on a tighter budget who appreciate historic charm and local culture over corporate polish.

5. South Irving (75062): This area offers the most affordability, with 1BR rents often below $1,200. It's more residential and less flashy. The commute to the major hospital corridors in the north of Irving can be longer (25-45 mins) due to traffic on major roads like Highway 183 and 114. Best for budget-conscious LPNs who don't mind a longer drive.

The Long Game: Career Growth

An LPN license is a fantastic foundation, but where you take it in Irving depends on your goals.

Specialty Premiums:

• IV Therapy: Can add $1-$2/hour to your base pay.
• Wound Care Certification (CWCN): Highly valued in long-term care and hospital settings; can lead to a pay bump or a dedicated role.
• Gerontology or Palliative Care: Specialized knowledge is in high demand with Irving's aging population.

Advancement Paths:

1. Clinical Ladder: Many hospitals have a formal clinical ladder. You can progress from LPN I to LPN II, III, etc., with each step bringing a pay increase and more responsibility.
2. Charge Nurse: In nursing homes and some hospital units, experienced LPNs can take on charge nurse duties, overseeing other LPNs and CNAs.
3. Education & Leadership: Move into staff development, becoming a clinical instructor for new hires, or a unit coordinator.
4. Bridge to RN: This is the most common long-term path. Many local employers, including Baylor and Texas Health, offer tuition reimbursement for LPNs to get their Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). With an RN, your salary potential in Irving jumps to the $70,000 - $85,000 range.

10-Year Outlook:
With a 5% growth rate, the market will remain stable. As the population in Irving and the broader DFW area ages, the demand for LPNs in long-term care, home health, and outpatient settings will grow. The key to long-term growth is specialization and, if desired, transitioning to an RN. The infrastructure for advancement is here; you just have to be proactive.

The Verdict: Is Irving Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Solid Salary: $55,160 median is competitive, especially with differentials.	High Rent: $1,291 is above the national average, eating into your budget.
Abundant Job Market: 508 jobs and multiple major employers offer choice and stability.	Traffic & Commute: DFW traffic is notorious. A short map distance can be a long drive.
Strategic Location: Central DFW means easy access to Dallas, Fort Worth, and DFW Airport for travel.	Car Dependency: You absolutely need a reliable car. Public transit is limited.
No State Income Tax: A significant financial advantage over many states.	Homeownership is a Stretch: On a single LPN income, buying a home is not financially feasible without a large down payment or dual income.
Diverse Networking: Mix of large hospitals, community clinics, and specialty centers.	Can Feel Generic: Irving is a corporate and suburban city; it lacks the distinct cultural identity of Austin or San Antonio.

Final Recommendation:
Irving is a strong "B+" choice for an LPN. It’s not the highest-paying market in Texas, but it offers a balanced combination of a decent salary, a robust and diverse job market, and the no-state-tax benefit. It's an excellent place to gain 2-3 years of solid hospital experience, especially in a major system like Texas Health or Baylor. If you value career stability, a central location, and don't need a vibrant downtown scene, Irving is a practical and rewarding choice. It’s a launchpad—ideal for a mid-career move or for starting out, with clear paths for growth if you choose to pursue them.

FAQs

1. What's the real cost of living for an LPN in Irving?
After taxes, your take-home is about $3,750/month. With average rent at $1,291, plus utilities, a car, groceries, and insurance, you'll likely have $800-$900 left for savings, debt, and entertainment. It's manageable, but budgeting is essential.

2. How competitive is the job market for a new grad LPN?
It's competitive but not impossible. You'll be up against experienced LPNs. To stand out, highlight any clinical rotations in hospitals, get IV certified before applying (if your program allowed it), and apply to a wide range of settings—don't just focus on hospitals. Long-term care facilities often have more openings for new grads.

3. Is it worth it to get IV certified in Texas?
Absolutely. In Irving's hospital job market, IV certification is a major differentiator. Many employers will hire you with the condition that you get certified within 6 months, but having it on your resume upfront makes you a more attractive candidate and can sometimes lead to a higher starting offer.

4. How long is the commute typically?
This varies wildly. If you live in Las Colinas and work at Texas Health Irving, your commute could be 10 minutes. If you live in South Irving and work at Baylor in Dallas, you could be looking at 30-45 minutes in rush hour traffic. Before accepting a job, drive the route during your potential shift times to get a realistic sense.

5. What are the most common specializations for LPNs in Irving?
The most common are in Med-Surg, Orthopedics, Long-Term Care/Skilled Nursing, and Home Health. Specialty areas like Dialysis and Oncology are also available but may require additional training or experience. The outpatient and clinic settings are growing as well, offering more M-F schedules.