The Manchester, NH LPN Career Guide

Alright, let's cut to the chase. If you're an LPN looking at Manchester, you're probably weighing a solid job market against a high cost of living. I'm a local, and I've seen nurses come here for the pay bump and then struggle with rent. This guide is for you—the one who wants the real numbers, the backdoor info, and a clear picture of what life here actually looks like on an LPN's salary. We're not selling you on the Queen City; we're giving you the data so you can decide if it's your next move.

The Salary Picture: Where Manchester Stands

First, the numbers that matter. In Manchester, the median salary for LPNs is $55,455. That breaks down to an hourly rate of $26.66. This is notably higher than the national average of $54,620, but it doesn't happen by accident. Our regional hospital system and the cost of living push wages up. We're not talking about New York City money, but it's a respectable bump for a mid-sized city.

The job market is tight but stable. There are approximately 230 LPN jobs in the metro area at any given time. The 10-year job growth is projected at 5%, which is steady. It's not explosive growth like some tech hubs, but it's reliable. This growth is driven by an aging population in New Hampshire and the continued expansion of home health and long-term care facilities.

Here’s how experience breaks down for pay in Manchester. This is a realistic snapshot based on local job postings and industry chatter, not just official BLS data.

Experience Level	Typical Manchester Salary Range	Key Local Notes
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$48,000 - $52,000	Usually starts in nursing homes or large clinics. You'll need to prove reliability.
Mid-Level (3-7 yrs)	$52,000 - $58,000	Where the median sits. Home health and hospital med-surg units are common.
Senior (8-15 yrs)	$58,000 - $65,000	Often seen in case management, dialysis, or supervisory roles in LTC.
Expert (15+ yrs)	$65,000+	Typically requires specialty certs (e.g., wound care, IV therapy) or a move into management.

How we compare to other NH cities:

• Concord: Similar median (~$54,500) but fewer jobs. More state government and hospital roles.
• Portsmouth: Higher median (~$58,000) but cost of living is significantly steeper. More competition from retirees with private insurance.
• Dover/ Rochester: Slightly lower median (~$53,000) but a growing healthcare corridor with more home health opportunities.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get brutally honest about your budget. The median salary of $55,455 is your gross. After federal, state, and FICA taxes (roughly 22-25% combined), your take-home pay is likely around $3,400 - $3,500 per month.

The biggest variable is rent. The average 1-bedroom apartment in Manchester rents for $1,348/month. The Cost of Living Index here is 105.1 (US avg = 100), meaning it's about 5% more expensive than the national average. The metro population is 115,473, which feels manageable but is growing, putting pressure on housing.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Single LPN, $55,455/year)

• Gross Monthly: ~$4,621
• Take-Home Pay: ~$3,450 (estimated after taxes)
• Rent (Avg 1BR): $1,348
• Utilities (Elec/Heat/Internet): $250
• Groceries: $400
• Car Payment/Insurance/Gas: $400
• Health Insurance (if not covered): $200
• Miscellaneous: $300
• Remaining/Savings: $552

Can you afford to buy a home?
It's a stretch on a single LPN salary. The median home price in Manchester is around $400,000. A 20% down payment is $80,000. With your remaining $552/month after a strict budget, saving for that down payment would take over 12 years. It's more feasible with a dual-income household or if you advance into a higher-paying specialty or management role. A common path is to rent for 2-3 years, build savings, and then look at more affordable surrounding towns like Goffstown or Hooksett.

Where the Jobs Are: Manchester's Major Employers

Manchester's healthcare scene is dominated by a few key players. Hiring trends show a constant demand for LPNs in geriatrics and home health, with some openings in outpatient clinics.

1. Elliot Health System: The largest private healthcare provider in the region. They run Elliot Hospital and numerous specialty clinics. LPNs are often hired for their surgical units, urgent care centers, and their home health division. They offer strong benefits and tuition reimbursement, which is a huge plus for anyone considering an RN bridge program. Hiring is steady year-round.

2. Catholic Medical Center (CMC): Located on the city's west side, CMC is another major hospital with a busy ER and cardiac center. LPN roles here are frequently in their skilled nursing facility (The Villa) or in various outpatient clinics. They are part of the larger Trinity Health system, which can mean more internal mobility.

3. Genesis Healthcare (Various Facilities): This national chain operates several long-term care and rehabilitation facilities in and around Manchester, like the New Hampshire Hallmark Healthcare Center. These are often the most consistent sources of LPN jobs, especially for new grads. The work is demanding but provides excellent experience.

4. Visiting Nurse Association of New Hampshire (VNA): Based in Manchester, the VNA is a major employer for home health LPNs. This is a great option for those who prefer autonomy and want to avoid hospital settings. Driving a territory is required, so a reliable car is a must. They hire regularly due to high demand in the region.

5. Amoskeag Health (Community Health Center): Located in the heart of the city, this Federally Qualified Health Center serves a diverse patient population. LPN roles here are in primary care, pediatrics, and behavioral health. It's a mission-driven environment that looks for culturally competent providers.

6. Private Medical Practices & Specialist Clinics: Don't overlook smaller employers. Practices in dermatology, gastroenterology, and orthopedics (many on the south side, near the Mall of New Hampshire) often hire LPNs for MA-like roles. Check job boards for postings from groups like New Hampshire Orthopaedic Center or Seacoast Dermatology.

Insider Tip: Many of the best jobs are filled before they're publicly posted. Join the New Hampshire Nurses Association (NHNA) and local Facebook groups like "New Hampshire LPN/RN Networking." Connect with recruiters from Elliot and CMC on LinkedIn.

Getting Licensed in NH

New Hampshire is a compact state, which is a huge advantage if you're already licensed in another compact state (like Maine, Vermont, or Texas). You can start working almost immediately.

For Non-Compact State Nurses:

1. Application: Submit an application through the New Hampshire Board of Nursing (NHBON) website. You'll need proof of graduation from an approved LPN program and a passing NCLEX-PN score.
2. Fingerprinting: A federal criminal background check is required, which costs about $50.
3. Fees: The initial license fee is $120. Total cost to get licensed from scratch: roughly $170 (excluding exam fees).
4. Timeline: If you have everything in order, processing can take 4-6 weeks. If you're compact, it's a matter of days.

Insider Tip: Even if you're compact, register with the NHBON. It's free and allows you to update your address and renew your license online, which simplifies things if you ever decide to move here permanently.

Best Neighborhoods for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)s

Your commute and lifestyle matter. Manchester is compact, but traffic on the 101/293 corridors can be a nightmare during rush hour. Here’s a breakdown:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg 1BR Rent	Who It's Best For
North End / Piscataquog River Area	Up-and-coming, walkable to some amenities, diverse. Commute to downtown/CMC is 10-15 mins.	$1,200 - $1,400	LPNs who want an urban feel, shorter commute to major hospitals, and lower rent.
South Side / Mall Area	Suburban, car-dependent. Easy access to Elliot Hospital & I-93. Safe, quiet, but bland.	$1,350 - $1,550	LPNs with families, those who prioritize a predictable commute and proximity to shopping.
West Side / Goffstown Road	Established, family-oriented. Closer to CMC and some clinics. Can be pricier.	$1,400 - $1,600	LPNs looking for a stable, residential neighborhood with good schools (if applicable).
Downtown / Historic District	Walkable, vibrant nightlife, older buildings (some with no central A/C). Short walk to CMC & offices.	$1,250 - $1,500	Younger LPNs who want to be in the action and don't mind older housing stock.

Insider Tip: Avoid the "Gold Coast" (the area near the Merrimack River on the east side) if you're on a budget. It's beautiful but rents are high. For better value, look at the Elm Street corridor on the north end or the neighborhoods off of Mammoth Road.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Manchester is a great place to build experience, but you need a plan to advance beyond the median salary.

• Specialty Premiums: The biggest pay bumps come with certifications. Earning your Certified Wound Care Specialist (CWCS) or IV Therapy Certification can add $2-$4/hour to your base pay. Employers like Elliot and VNA often pay for these if you commit to staying.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. LPN to RN Bridge: This is the most common path. Elliot and CMC have partnerships with local colleges (like Southern New Hampshire University) and offer tuition assistance. An RN license in NH can push your salary to $70,000+.
  2. Specialty Clinics: Moving from a nursing home to a dialysis clinic (like DaVita or Fresenius) or a surgical center can increase pay and improve work-life balance.
  3. Case Management: With experience, LPNs can move into care coordination for home health agencies or insurance companies, often in a salaried, Monday-Friday role.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 5% job growth is solid. However, healthcare is evolving. There's a push for more team-based care. LPNs who are tech-savvy (EHR systems) and can work autonomously in home health or clinics will have the most opportunity. The aging NH population ensures demand for geriatric care remains strong.

The Verdict: Is Manchester Right for You?

This isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. Here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons.

Pros	Cons
Above-National-Average Pay: Median $55,455 is competitive.	High Rent: $1,348/month average eats a big chunk of your budget.
Stable Job Market: 230 jobs and 5% growth offer security.	Cost of Living: Index of 105.1 means groceries, taxes, and services are pricey.
Two Major Hospital Systems: Elliot and CMC provide diverse experience.	Winters are Long & Harsh: It's not just a stereotype; snow can impact your commute for months.
Great for Gaining Experience: You'll see a wide variety of cases in a short time.	Limited Public Transit: A car is a non-negotiable necessity.
Compact State License: Easy transition if you're from another compact state.	"Manchester is Rough": Some neighborhoods have reputations. Do your homework before renting.

Final Recommendation:
Manchester is a strong choice for LPNs who are at the mid-career stage and are willing to budget carefully. It's an excellent place to gain 2-3 years of diverse experience, especially in home health or hospital med-surg, before potentially moving to a lower-cost area or advancing to an RN. For a new grad, it's viable but tight—you'll need a roommate or a very disciplined budget. If you're coming from a high-cost coastal city, you might find the pay-to-rent ratio refreshing. If you're coming from the rural Midwest, the sticker shock is real. Come for the job, plan for the cost, and have a 2-year exit or advancement strategy.

FAQs

1. I'm a new LPN grad. Will I find a job in Manchester?
Yes, but be flexible. Your first job will likely be in long-term care or a large clinic. Apply to all the major employers (Genesis, Elliot, CMC, VNA) and be willing to work nights or weekends. That's where the openings are.

2. Is it safe to live in Manchester?
Like any city, it has its pockets. The South Side and West Side are generally considered very safe. The downtown and north end have more energy but require street smarts. Check crime maps for specific streets. Most locals will tell you the reputation is worse than the reality for day-to-day life.

3. How does the cost of living really feel on a $55,455 salary?
It's manageable but not luxurious. You'll have enough for essentials, some savings, and modest fun. You'll likely need a roommate or partner to comfortably afford a nicer apartment or start saving for a house. Budgeting is key.

4. What's the biggest surprise for LPNs moving here?
The tax burden. New Hampshire has no state income tax, which is a huge plus, but it has the nation's highest property taxes. This gets passed down to renters through higher rent. Also, the winter is no joke—invest in a good coat and snow tires.

5. Should I get my RN? If so, locally?
Absolutely, if you're looking for long-term growth in Manchester. The pay jump is significant. Elliot and CMC both have strong tuition reimbursement programs. SNHU and the Manchester Community College have LPN-to-RN bridge programs with flexible schedules for working nurses.

Data Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, New Hampshire Board of Nursing, U.S. Census Bureau, MIT Living Wage Calculator, Zillow Rent Index (aggregated).