Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Rogers, AR

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) considering a move to Rogers, Arkansas.

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The Salary Picture: Where Rogers Stands

If you're an LPN looking at Rogers, the financial picture is a bit of a mixed bag compared to the rest of the state and the nation. The key thing to understand is the local cost of living. While the salary numbers are solid, the low cost of living in Northwest Arkansas (NWA) makes your money go further, which is the real story here.

The median salary for an LPN in Rogers is $53,145/year, with an hourly rate of $25.55/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $54,620/year, but that gap is almost entirely negated by Rogers' affordable living expenses. In fact, the Rogers metro area, which is part of the larger Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR Metropolitan Statistical Area, has a Cost of Living Index of 91.0, significantly lower than the U.S. average of 100. This means your dollar stretches about 9% further here than the national average.

When you break down salaries by experience, you see a clear progression. Here’s a realistic look at what you can expect to earn in the Rogers area based on years in the field:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Rogers Area)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$45,000 - $48,000	Basic patient care, medication administration, wound care under RN supervision.
Mid-Career (3-7 years)	$50,000 - $56,000	Increased autonomy, mentoring new staff, managing complex patient cases.
Senior (8-15 years)	$57,000 - $62,000	Specialty clinic roles, case management, precepting, leadership on unit.
Expert (15+ years)	$62,000+	Charge nurse (if permitted by facility), clinical educator, policy development.

How does Rogers stack up to other Arkansas cities? It’s right in the middle of the pack for LPN salaries. For instance, the Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway metro has a slightly higher median salary (closer to $56,000), but the cost of living is also higher. In contrast, rural areas in Arkansas might offer similar salaries but with fewer job openings and less career mobility. The 10-year job growth for LPNs in the metro area is 5%, which is steady if not explosive. This translates to about 148 jobs in the metro at any given time, indicating consistent demand but not a hiring frenzy.

Insider Tip: Don't just look at the base salary. Many Rogers employers, especially large health systems, offer sign-on bonuses (often $3,000-$7,000 for full-time positions), shift differentials for nights and weekends ($2-$4/hour extra), and benefits packages that include tuition reimbursement. These can add thousands to your total annual compensation.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get practical. You have a median salary of $53,145, but what does that mean for your monthly budget in Rogers? We’ll estimate taxes for a single filer with no dependents (using the 2023 tax brackets as a guide).

• Annual Gross Salary: $53,145
• Estimated Annual Taxes (Federal + FICA + State): ~$9,500 (approx. 18% effective rate)
• Annual Net Take-Home Pay: ~$43,645
• Monthly Net Take-Home Pay: ~$3,637

Now, let’s factor in the average 1BR rent in Rogers of $924/month.

Monthly Budget Breakdown:

• Net Pay: $3,637
• Rent: -$924
• Remaining for Utilities, Food, Transportation, Savings: $2,713

This is a very comfortable buffer for a single person. Your major fixed costs (rent) are less than 26% of your take-home pay, which is well below the recommended 30% threshold. This leaves plenty of room for a car payment, groceries, dining out in Rogers' vibrant food scene, and saving for the future.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in the Rogers area is around $280,000. With a $30,000 down payment (about 10%), a 30-year mortgage at 7% interest would have a monthly payment (including taxes and insurance) of roughly $1,800-$1,900. This is about 50% of your net monthly pay, which is higher than the ideal 28% but still feasible, especially if you have a dual-income household or can put more down. For a single LPN, it’s a stretch but attainable with careful budgeting and a few years of savings. Many first-time homebuyer programs in Arkansas can help reduce the down payment requirement.

Where the Jobs Are: Rogers's Major Employers

Rogers is part of the thriving Northwest Arkansas (NWA) region, home to several major healthcare systems and corporate campuses that provide stable employment for LPNs. The job market is competitive but diverse, moving beyond traditional hospitals.

1. Mercy Hospital Rogers: A key player in the community, Mercy is part of the larger Mercy health system. They have a 120-bed hospital with services in emergency, surgery, and orthopedics. They are a major hirer of LPNs for medical-surgical units, outpatient surgery, and their specialty clinics. Hiring trends show a focus on LPNs with orthopedic or surgical experience.

2. Washington Regional Medical Center (in nearby Fayetteville): While not in Rogers proper, it’s a 15-minute drive and one of the largest employers in the region. It’s a Level II trauma center and has a large oncology department. They often have openings for LPNs in their infusion centers, wound care clinics, and on their high-acuity floors.

3. Siloam Springs Regional Hospital (15-20 minutes south): Part of the Northwest Health system, this smaller community hospital is known for its friendlier, less corporate culture. It’s an excellent place for LPNs looking for a good mix of inpatient and outpatient experience. They frequently hire for their med-surg and emergency department observation units.

4. Ozarks Community Hospital (in nearby Gravette): This hospital has a unique model and serves a large rural and underserved population. They often have consistent need for LPNs in their clinics, behavioral health unit, and inpatient floors. The pace can be intense, but the experience is invaluable.

5. Northwest Arkansas Nephrology (Rogers): For an LPN interested in a stable, regular schedule, this is a top choice. This clinic specializes in kidney care (dialysis). LPNs work with patients in a controlled, outpatient setting, managing treatments and providing patient education. It’s a highly sought-after specialty with excellent work-life balance.

6. The Jones Center (Springdale): This is a unique and growing employer. It’s a large community health and wellness center that provides integrated care, including medical, dental, and behavioral health services. They hire LPNs for their primary care clinics, which focus on underserved populations. It’s a mission-driven environment.

7. Major Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Facilities: Rogers has a growing senior population. Companies like The Glenwood and Apple Creek Assisted Living regularly hire LPNs for medication administration and care coordination. These roles often offer a more predictable 9-to-5 schedule.

Hiring Trend Insight: There is a noticeable shift towards LPNs in outpatient and clinic settings (nephrology, dialysis, wound care, primary care) versus traditional hospital floors. This trend aligns with the national movement towards value-based care and chronic disease management. Also, with the massive growth of the region (driven by companies like Walmart, Tyson, and J.B. Hunt), corporate wellness clinics for employees are becoming a new niche for LPNs.

Getting Licensed in Arkansas

If you're moving from another state, you'll need to secure an Arkansas LPN license. The process is straightforward but requires planning.

State-Specific Requirements:

1. Graduate from an approved LPN program: The program must be approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing (ASBN).
2. Pass the NCLEX-PN: This is the national licensure exam. You must apply to the ASBN for authorization to test. You can do this before you move.
3. Submit an application for licensure by examination to the ASBN. You will need your official transcripts sent directly from your school.
4. Pass a criminal background check: This is mandatory and includes fingerprinting. You must request the background check packet from the ASBN.
5. Pay the fees: The total cost for licensure by examination is approximately $150-$200 (this includes the application fee, background check fee, and NCLEX registration fee through Pearson VUE).

Timeline to Get Started:

• Months 1-2: Gather all transcripts and submit your application to the ASBN. Schedule your NCLEX-PN if you haven't already taken it.
• Month 3: Complete the fingerprinting and background check process. This can take 2-4 weeks for results.
• Month 4: Receive your Authorization to Test (ATT) from Pearson VUE and schedule your NCLEX exam. You can take it in Arkansas (Pearson VUE centers in Little Rock or Fort Smith) or in your home state if you're still there.
• Month 5: Once you pass the NCLEX, the ASBN will issue your Arkansas license. You can then begin applying for jobs.

Insider Tip: If you are licensed in a state that belongs to the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), you may be able to practice in Arkansas without obtaining an additional license. Arkansas is a compact state as of 2023. Check the ASBN website to see if your home state is part of the compact. If not, you will need to go through the process above.

Best Neighborhoods for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPNs)

Where you live in Rogers will impact your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here are a few top neighborhoods to consider:

1. Downtown Rogers: This is the heart of the city, with a charming, walkable area full of boutiques, restaurants, and the historic Victory Theater. It’s ideal if you work at Mercy Hospital Rogers or a downtown clinic. Commute times are under 10 minutes for most jobs. It has a mix of renovated apartments and older homes.

   • Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,200/month for a 1BR.

2. Pinnacle Hills: This is the upscale, modern part of Rogers, home to the Pinnacle Hills Promenade (a high-end shopping center) and many new apartment complexes. It’s close to major employers like the corporate offices of Tyson and J.B. Hunt. The commute to Mercy or Washington Regional is about 10-15 minutes. It's popular with young professionals.

   • Rent Estimate: $1,000 - $1,500/month for a 1BR.

3. Heritage/Whitney Oaks: Located in the south side of Rogers, this area is known for its excellent public schools, family-friendly parks, and more affordable single-family homes. It’s a great choice if you’re planning to start a family or want a quieter, suburban feel. Commute to Mercy is about 15 minutes.

   • Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,100/month for a 1BR apartment; home prices average $250,000-$350,000.

4. East Rogers/South of I-49: This area is more residential and budget-friendly. You’ll find older, well-maintained neighborhoods and more rental options at a lower price point. It’s a practical choice for LPNs just starting out. The commute to most major employers is still reasonable, around 15-20 minutes.

   • Rent Estimate: $750 - $950/month for a 1BR.

Commute Insight: Traffic in Rogers is generally manageable, especially compared to larger cities. The main artery is I-49, which runs north-south. Living within 5-10 miles of your workplace will almost always guarantee a commute under 20 minutes. Rush hour (7-8 AM and 4:30-5:30 PM) does see congestion on I-49 and Highway 62, but it's not gridlock.

The Long Game: Career Growth

An LPN license in Rogers is a solid foundation, but you should think about your long-term career trajectory.

Specialty Premiums and Advancement Paths:

• Dialysis/Nephrology: This is one of the highest-demand specialties for LPNs. You can expect to be at the top end of the mid-career salary range ($56,000-$60,000+). The skills are very transferable.
• Infusion Therapy (Oncology): LPNs who can administer chemotherapy and other infusions are highly valued at clinics like Washington Regional’s infusion center. This can lead to a senior LPN role.
• Case Management: With experience, LPNs can move into care coordination roles, often in home health or for insurance companies. This typically pays more and offers a Monday-Friday schedule.
• Clinical Educator: Some hospital systems hire experienced LPNs to train new nursing staff, though this often requires a Bachelor’s degree.

10-Year Outlook:
The 5% job growth in the metro is steady. However, the real growth will be in integrated care settings—places like The Jones Center or large multi-specialty clinics. The aging population in NWA ensures consistent demand for LPNs in geriatrics and long-term care. The biggest career move for an LPN is often going back to school to become an RN. Northwest Arkansas has several excellent ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) and BSN programs (at the University of Arkansas, John Brown University, and Northwest Arkansas Community College). With tuition reimbursement from employers, this is a very common path. An RN license in Arkansas would bump your potential salary into the $70,000-$85,000+ range within a few years.

The Verdict: Is Rogers Right for You?

Deciding to move is a big choice. Here’s a straightforward look at the pros and cons of being an LPN in Rogers.

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: Your $53,145 salary goes much further here.	Limited Specialties: Fewer high-acuity hospital roles (e.g., ICU, L&D) compared to Little Rock.
Growing Job Market: Steady demand across hospitals, clinics, and long-term care.	Competition: The market is competitive; you need a strong resume and interview skills.
Work-Life Balance: Generally manageable commutes and a culture that values time off.	Transportation is a Must: There is no viable public transit; you need a reliable car.
Outdoor Access: Beautiful lakes, trails, and parks are minutes away for stress relief.	Fewer "Big City" Amenities: While growing, it lacks the major concert venues and museums of a large metro.
Community Feel: Rogers has a strong sense of community without being overly small-town.	Housing Costs Rising: While still affordable, rent and home prices have increased significantly in the last 5 years.

Final Recommendation:
Rogers, AR is an excellent choice for LPNs, especially those early to mid-career, or those seeking a better quality of life and affordability. If you value a stable job, a low-stress commute, and outdoor recreation, you'll thrive here. It’s particularly well-suited for LPNs interested in dialysis, primary care, or outpatient surgery, as these are the areas with the most opportunity.

It may not be the ideal spot for an LPN seeking the highest possible salary or experience in a Level I trauma center. But for the vast majority of LPNs looking for a balanced, rewarding career in a supportive community, Rogers offers a compelling and financially smart proposition.

FAQs

Q: Can I live in Rogers and commute to Bentonville?
A: Yes, absolutely. Bentonville is just 10-15 minutes from most of Rogers. Many people live in Rogers for its slightly lower rent and more established downtown and commute to the major corporate offices or hospitals in Bentonville and Springdale.

Q: What is the nursing culture like in Rogers?
A: The culture is generally collaborative and less hierarchical than in some larger, academic medical centers. There’s a strong emphasis on teamwork. The "small-world" effect is real—you’ll likely run into colleagues at the grocery store or local events.

Q: Do I need to be licensed in both Arkansas and Missouri if I live in Rogers?
A: No. Arkansas is a compact state. If you hold a multi-state license from another compact state, you are covered. If you are licensed in a non-compact state, you only need an Arkansas license to work in Arkansas. You do not need a Missouri license just for living in Rogers.

Q: Are there opportunities for part-time or PRN work?
A: Very much so. Many hospitals and clinics offer PRN ("as needed") positions with a higher hourly rate but no benefits. This is a popular option for LPNs who want flexibility or to supplement income from a full-time job.

Q: What’s the best way to find a job in Rogers?
A: Use the major job boards (Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor) but also check the "Careers" sections on the websites of the employers listed above (Mercy, Washington Regional, etc.). Networking is