Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Lakewood CDP, NJ

Of course. Here is a comprehensive career guide for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) considering a move to Lakewood CDP, New Jersey.

---

The Salary Picture: Where Lakewood CDP Stands

Lakewood CDP sits in the heart of Ocean County, a region with a unique healthcare landscape. It's not the high-cost, high-salary environment of North Jersey, but it offers stability and a lower barrier to entry than places like Bergen or Hudson counties. For an LPN, the numbers tell a story of solid middle-ground earning potential.

The median salary for an LPN in Lakewood CDP is $56,668 per year, with an hourly rate of $27.24. This is slightly above the national average of $54,620, which is a positive indicator for a cost-of-living area that's also above the national average. The metro area has 135 LPN jobs, suggesting a stable but not saturated market. The 10-year job growth is projected at 5%, which aligns with national trends and indicates steady demand, especially given the aging population in Ocean County.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Your earning potential will naturally increase with experience. Here’s a realistic breakdown for the Lakewood area:

Experience Level	Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary Range
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$48,000 - $53,000
Mid-Career	2-8 years	$55,000 - $62,000
Senior-Level	8-15 years	$60,000 - $68,000
Expert/Lead	15+ years	$65,000 - $75,000+

Note: These ranges are estimates based on local job postings and regional BLS data. Specialized skills can push you to the higher end.

Comparison to Other NJ Cities

Lakewood offers a more affordable alternative to the state's major metropolitan hubs while still providing competitive wages.

City	Median LPN Salary	Cost of Living (Index)	Key Market Note
Lakewood CDP	$56,668	112.5	Stable, community-focused market
Newark	$60,500	~120	Higher salary, but much higher cost
Trenton	$58,200	~108	State capital, government jobs
Jersey City	$62,100	~140	Highest salaries, highest costs
Atlantic City	$54,500	~105	Tourism-driven healthcare demand

As you can see, Lakewood provides a balanced equation. You earn a respectable wage without the extreme housing and living costs of the Jersey City/Newark corridor.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get practical. A median salary of $56,668 sounds good, but what does it mean for your monthly budget in Lakewood? We'll use the average 1BR rent of $1,743/month and the Cost of Living Index of 112.5.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for an LPN in Lakewood CDP

• Gross Monthly Income: $56,668 / 12 = $4,722
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, State, FICA): ~22% = -$1,039
• Net (Take-Home) Pay: ~$3,683

Sample Monthly Expenses:

• Rent (1BR): $1,743
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet): $180
• Groceries: $350
• Car Payment/Insurance: $400
• Gas/Transportation: $150
• Health Insurance (if not fully covered by employer): $200
• Miscellaneous (Dining, Entertainment, Savings): $660
• Total Expenses: $3,683

This budget is tight but manageable, leaving little room for error. It assumes you're living alone and have a car payment. Sharing a place or having a partner can significantly improve your financial flexibility.

Can they afford to buy a home?
It's challenging on a single LPN salary. The median home price in Lakewood is approximately $425,000. With a 20% down payment ($85,000), a 30-year mortgage at 6.5% would have a monthly payment of over $2,100, not including property taxes (which are high in New Jersey) or maintenance. This would be a significant portion of your take-home pay. Homeownership is more feasible with a dual-income household, a larger down payment, or after advancing into a higher-paying LPN or RN role.

Where the Jobs Are: Lakewood CDP's Major Employers

Lakewood's healthcare ecosystem is heavily influenced by its large and growing Orthodox Jewish community, which impacts facility types and hiring patterns. The demand is consistent, with a particular need for LPNs in long-term care.

1. The Lakewood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center: A major local employer. This 240-bed facility consistently hires LPNs for subacute, long-term, and memory care units. They often offer sign-on bonuses and flexible shifts (8, 10, or 12-hour). Insider Tip: They value experience with wound care and tracheostomy care.

2. Barnabas Health Home Care & Hospice (now part of RWJBarnabas): This is a key employer for LPNs who prefer home health over facility work. You'll need a driver's license and a reliable car. The pay often includes mileage reimbursement. Demand is high for LPNs skilled in medication administration and patient education in a home setting.

3. Seacrest Village Retirement Communities: While the main campus is in nearby Absecon, Seacrest has a significant presence and hires many Lakewood residents. It's a respected, faith-based senior living organization. They often seek LPNs for assisted living and skilled nursing sections. The culture is very community-oriented.

4. Various Private Medical Practices: Lakewood has a high density of private practices, especially in family medicine, pediatrics, and specialties like urology and cardiology. These offices often hire LPNs for front-desk/clinical hybrid roles, phlebotomy, and assisting physicians. Check local listings on sites like Indeed and LinkedIn for practices like "Lakewood Medical Associates" or "Ocean County Medical Group."

5. Jersey Shore University Medical Center (in Neptune, ~15 min drive): While not in Lakewood proper, this is the closest major hospital system (part of Hackensack Meridian Health). It's a Level II Trauma Center and a major employer. LPN roles here are often more specialized (e.g., in outpatient clinics, dialysis, or same-day surgery). Competition is stiffer, but the pay and benefits are typically better.

Hiring Trends: There is a steady, year-round demand for LPNs in long-term care and home health. The post-pandemic period has seen increased emphasis on infection control and rapid response skills in facilities. Home health agencies are expanding due to the preference for aging-in-place.

Getting Licensed in NJ

If you're moving from another state, you'll need to secure a New Jersey license. The process is straightforward but requires attention to detail.

State-Specific Requirements:

1. Graduation: Graduate from an approved LPN program (must be on the NJ Board of Nursing's list).
2. NCLEX-PN Exam: Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses.
3. Background Check: Complete a criminal background check through the NJ Board of Nursing's approved vendor (IdentoGO).
4. Application: Submit an online application through the New Jersey Board of Nursing website.
5. Fees: Application fee is $120. The NCLEX-PN exam fee is $200. Background check is approximately $66. Total upfront cost is roughly $386.

Timeline to Get Started:

• If you're a new graduate: Start your application as soon as you graduate. The NCLEX can be scheduled within 2-4 weeks. From start to license in hand, expect 6-8 weeks.
• If you're licensed in another state (Compact or non-Compact): You can apply for licensure by endorsement. This process can take 8-12 weeks. You must verify your original license and may need to provide proof of work experience. NJ is not part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you cannot practice here on a compact license.

Best Neighborhoods for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPNs)

Lakewood is a large CDP, but neighborhoods have distinct feels and price points. Proximity to major employers is key.

1. East Lakewood (near Route 70 & Pine Street):

   • Vibe: Residential, family-oriented, with easy access to shopping and major roads.
   • Commute: 5-10 minutes to The Lakewood Nursing Center; 15 minutes to Jersey Shore University Medical Center.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,650 - $1,900/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Those who want a classic suburban lifestyle and a short commute.

2. South Lakewood (near Lakewood Country Club):

   • Vibe: Slightly more upscale, quieter, with larger properties and mature trees.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to most local employers.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,750 - $2,100/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: LPNs seeking more space and a peaceful environment.

3. West Lakewood (near Clifton Avenue):

   • Vibe: Densely populated, very central, with a mix of apartments and single-family homes. Close to shopping plazas and synagogues.
   • Commute: 5-10 minutes to most local employers.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,500 - $1,800/month for a 1BR (often the most affordable option).
   • Best For: Those prioritizing affordability and central location.

4. North Lakewood (near Route 88):

   • Vibe: A bit more spread out, closer to the border with Brick. Offers a mix of suburban and semi-rural feel.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to local employers; easier access to the Garden State Parkway for jobs further north.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,600 - $1,950/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: LPNs who commute to other areas or want a balance of space and accessibility.

The Long Game: Career Growth

An LPN license in New Jersey is a solid foundation, but advancement requires conscious effort. The 10-year outlook is positive, but growth comes from specialization and further education.

Specialty Premiums:
LPNs with certifications in the following areas can command higher pay and are in greater demand:

• Wound Care Certification (CWCN): Highly valued in nursing homes and home health.
• IV Therapy Certification: Required for many hospital and infusion center roles. Often a separate course from your LPN program.
• Gerontology or Long-Term Care: Specialized experience in dementia care or subacute rehab is a major asset in Ocean County.

Advancement Paths:

1. Lead LPN / Charge Nurse: In a facility, taking on supervisory duties for other LPNs and CNAs.
2. LPN to RN Bridge Program: The most common path for significant salary and responsibility increase. Several community colleges in NJ (like Ocean County College) offer accredited programs. An RN (Associate Degree) median salary in NJ is over $80,000, a substantial jump.
3. LPN to BSN: A longer path but opens doors to case management, public health, and education roles.

10-Year Outlook:
The demand for LPNs will remain strong, driven by the aging population in retirement-heavy areas like Ocean County. However, the trend is toward higher-acuity care in nursing homes, meaning LPNs will take on more complex tasks. To stay competitive and advance, pursuing an RN degree within 5-7 years of starting is a highly recommended strategy.

The Verdict: Is Lakewood CDP Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Competitive Salary vs. Cost of Living: $56,668 is a solid wage for the area.	High Cost of Living: The index of 112.5 and rent of $1,743 make it tough on a single income.
Stable Job Market: 135 jobs and 5% growth indicate reliable demand.	Limited Public Transit: A car is essential for commuting and daily life.
Strong Community & Cultural Life: Unique, tight-knit community for those who value it.	Can Feel Insular: The specific cultural dynamics may not be a fit for everyone.
Proximity to Shore & NYC: Beaches are 30 mins away; trains to NYC are 45-60 mins.	Traffic: Can be congested, especially on Route 9, Route 70, and during holiday weekends.
Abundant Specialties: High concentration of long-term care and home health employers.	Path to Advancement Requires More School: LPN-to-RN bridge is almost necessary for significant growth.

Final Recommendation:
Lakewood CDP is an excellent choice for an LPN who values job stability, a moderate pace of life, and a unique community feel. It's particularly well-suited for those in long-term care or home health specialties. If you are a new graduate, a career-changer seeking a manageable entry into healthcare, or an experienced LPN looking for a change of pace without the extreme costs of North Jersey, Lakewood is a strong contender.

However, if your primary goal is to maximize your salary immediately or you prefer a fast-paced, anonymous urban environment, you may find better opportunities in the NYC metro area. For those planning a long-term career, have a clear plan for advancing to an RN.

FAQs

1. Are there many part-time or per-diem LPN jobs in Lakewood?
Yes. The long-term care facilities and home health agencies frequently offer part-time and per-diem (PRN) shifts. This can be a great way to supplement income or gain experience before committing to a full-time role. PRN shifts often pay a higher hourly rate but lack benefits.

2. How does the cost of healthcare in Lakewood affect my budget?
New Jersey has some of the highest health insurance premiums in the country. While many full-time employer jobs offer insurance, the premiums and deductibles can be significant. When evaluating a job offer, scrutinize the health benefits package. A lower premium can be worth a slight dip in the base salary.

3. Is it necessary to know a second language (like Yiddish or Hebrew) to work as an LPN in Lakewood?
It is not a requirement for employment, and most facilities are fully equipped with translation services for patient care. However, having a basic understanding of cultural norms and customs will be a significant asset in building rapport with a large portion of the patient population. It shows respect and can improve patient trust and compliance.

4. What's the commute like if I want to work in a neighboring town like Brick or Toms River?
Traffic is the main factor. A commute to Toms River (10-15 miles) can take 20-40 minutes depending on the time of day and route (Route 70, Route 37, or the Garden State Parkway). Brick is often a 15-25 minute commute. Always test the drive during your potential shift times before accepting a job.

5. Where should I look for LPN jobs besides the big employers listed?
Check the websites of the employers directly. For home health, look at agencies like Visiting Nurse Association of Central Jersey. Also, use specific search terms on job boards: "Lakewood LPN," "Ocean County LPN," "Geriatric LPN." Network on LinkedIn with local healthcare recruiters. Don't underestimate word-of-mouth; Lakewood is a community where personal recommendations carry weight.

---

Data Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), New Jersey Board of Nursing, Zillow (rent data), BestPlaces.net (Cost of Living Index), local job postings (Indeed, LinkedIn), and community employer websites. All salary data is based on the provided figures.