Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in San Angelo, TX

The Salary Picture: Where San Angelo Stands

Alright, let's talk numbers. If you're an LPN considering San Angelo, you need a clear picture of what your paycheck will look like. The median salary for an LPN here is $53,128 per year, which breaks down to $25.54 per hour. That’s the baseline. It’s a solid starting point, especially when you factor in the local cost of living.

To give you a better sense of where you fit on the pay scale, here’s a breakdown by experience level. Keep in mind these are estimates based on local job postings and national data adjusted for the region.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Estimated Hourly Rate
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$45,000 - $49,000	$21.63 - $23.56
Mid-Level (3-5 yrs)	$50,000 - $56,000	$24.04 - $26.92
Senior-Level (6-10 yrs)	$57,000 - $62,000	$27.40 - $29.81
Expert/Specialized (10+ yrs)	$63,000+	$30.29+

Now, how does San Angelo stack up against other Texas cities? The national average for LPNs is $54,620/year. So, San Angelo’s median of $53,128 sits just slightly below the national curve. It’s not a dramatic gap, but it’s one to be aware of. For context, in larger metros like Dallas or Austin, you might see salaries closer to $58,000 - $62,000, but you’ll also face a significantly higher cost of living. In San Angelo, the trade-off is often favorable for those seeking a more manageable lifestyle. The metro area currently has 194 active LPN jobs posted, indicating steady demand.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A salary is just a number until you see what’s left after life’s essentials. Let’s break down the monthly budget for an LPN earning the median salary of $53,128.

First, taxes. In Texas, there’s no state income tax, which is a major plus. However, you’ll still have federal taxes, Social Security, and Medicare. On a $53,128 annual salary, your estimated take-home pay after these deductions is approximately $3,900 per month (this is a rough estimate; use a paycheck calculator for your specific situation).

Now, let’s subtract the biggest fixed cost: rent. The average 1-bedroom apartment in San Angelo rents for $927 per month. Your remaining monthly budget is $3,900 - $927 = $2,973.

Here’s a practical monthly budget breakdown:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Housing (1BR Rent)	$927	Average across the city
Utilities	$180	Electricity, water, internet (varies by season)
Groceries	$300	For one person, cooking at home
Transportation	$350	Gas, insurance, maintenance (car is essential here)
Healthcare	$150	Copays, prescriptions, dental (if employer insurance)
Personal/Fun	$300	Dining out, hobbies, entertainment
Savings/Debt	$766	Leftover for student loans, emergency fund, or retirement
Total	$2,973

Can you afford to buy a home? With a $53,128 salary, you’re in a decent position. The median home price in San Angelo is around $220,000. A 20% down payment is $44,000. If you save aggressively from that $766/month surplus, you could save for a down payment in about 5-6 years. However, many lenders accept 3-5% down for first-time buyers, which would be $6,600 - $11,000. This makes homeownership a realistic goal for a disciplined LPN in San Angelo, a significant advantage over high-cost cities.

Where the Jobs Are: San Angelo's Major Employers

San Angelo’s healthcare ecosystem is anchored by a few major players. The job market is tight but stable, with 194 LPN positions typically available across the metro. Here are the primary employers you should target:

1. San Angelo Community Medical Center (SACMC): Part of HCA Healthcare, this 222-bed hospital is a major employer. They have an active ER, surgical services, and medical-surgical floors. Hiring trends show a consistent need for LPNs in med-surg, outpatient clinics, and same-day surgery. Insider Tip: SACMC often posts jobs on their own careers page before they hit larger job boards. Check it weekly.
2. Shannon Medical Center: The region’s largest private employer, with over 2,300 employees. Shannon is a Level II Trauma Center and the heart of the local healthcare network. They have numerous LPN roles in their main hospital, specialty clinics (cardiology, oncology, orthopedics), and their extensive home health care division. Insider Tip: Shannon’s nurse residency programs are excellent for new grads, but they also value experienced LPNs for preceptor roles.
3. Christus Health: Christus operates several facilities in San Angelo, including a hospital and numerous primary and specialty care clinics. Their focus on community health means LPNs are often needed in their family practice and pediatric clinics. Hiring is steady, especially for bilingual LPNs (English/Spanish).
4. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC): While TTUHSC is a major provider in West Texas, their presence in San Angelo is growing, particularly in the School of Health Professions. They offer LPN roles in their academic clinics and provide a path for those interested in teaching or research-adjacent roles.
5. West Texas Rehabilitation Center: A non-profit specialty hospital focusing on rehabilitation and long-term care. This is a prime employer for LPNs with an interest in rehab, geriatrics, or palliative care. Their culture is patient-centered, and they often have lower turnover than larger hospitals.
6. San Angelo State School: Part of the Texas Health and Human Services system, this facility provides care for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. LPN roles here are unique, focusing on daily living skills, medication administration, and behavioral support. It’s a stable government job with good benefits.
7. Local Nursing Homes & Assisted Living Facilities: Facilities like The Baptist Retirement Community and Holiday Healthcare Center are consistently hiring LPNs for long-term care. This sector offers a predictable schedule (often 8-hour shifts) and a strong focus on community and relationship-based care.

Hiring Trends: The demand is driven by an aging population and the expansion of outpatient services. Shannon and SACMC are in a quiet competition for nursing talent, leading to competitive benefits packages. There’s also a growing need for LPNs in home health, especially for patients managing chronic conditions post-discharge.

Getting Licensed in TX

If you’re not already licensed in Texas, the process is straightforward but requires attention to detail. The Texas Board of Nursing (BON) oversees all licensure.

Requirements & Process:

1. Graduation: You must graduate from an approved LPN program (a list is on the BON website).
2. NCLEX-PN Exam: Apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). The application fee is $200. You must also register with Pearson VUE (the testing vendor), which costs an additional $200. Total exam cost: $400.
3. Background Check: The Texas BON requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check. The cost is approximately $40.25.
4. Application Fee: The initial license application fee is $100.
5. Total Estimated Cost: $540.25 (Exam + Background Check + Application). This does not include the cost of your nursing education.

Timeline: Once you graduate, you can apply for your authorization to test (ATT). Most candidates receive their ATT within 1-2 weeks of applying. You can then schedule your NCLEX-PN. Results are often available within 48 hours. Upon passing, you can immediately apply for your Texas license, which is typically issued within 1-3 business days. Total timeline from graduation to holding a Texas license: 4-8 weeks.

For Out-of-State LPNs: You’ll apply for licensure by endorsement. You must provide verification of your original license and may need to complete a Texas-specific jurisprudence exam. The timeline is similar, but allow extra time for document processing.

Best Neighborhoods for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)s

San Angelo is a driving city, but choosing the right neighborhood can cut your commute and improve your quality of life. Here are four areas that offer a good balance for healthcare professionals.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute Time to Major Hospitals	Average 1BR Rent
Boulevard Heights	Upscale, quiet, tree-lined streets. 10-15 minute commute to Shannon or SACMC. Popular with established professionals and families.	$1,100 - $1,300
South Side	Family-friendly, good schools, more affordable. 15-20 minute commute to all major employers. A mix of older homes and new developments.	$850 - $1,050
Downtown / Historic District	Walkable, vibrant with shops and restaurants. 5-10 minute commute to Shannon (main campus). Ideal for those who want an urban feel.	$950 - $1,200
Concho Village	Affordable, with a mix of single-family homes and apartments. 15-minute commute to hospitals. Good for those looking to buy their first home.	$800 - $950

Insider Tip: Traffic in San Angelo is minimal compared to larger cities, but the main thoroughfares (Katherine Street, Bryant Blvd.) can get busy during shift changes at the hospitals. If you work at Shannon, living south or east of the hospital can save you a few minutes. For SACMC, the neighborhoods north and west of the hospital are most convenient.

The Long Game: Career Growth

San Angelo offers a solid foundation for career growth, though it requires a proactive approach. The 10-year job growth for LPNs in the region is projected at 5%, which aligns with national averages. This indicates stability rather than explosive growth, but opportunities for advancement are present.

Specialty Premiums and Advancements:

• Specialized Clinics: LPNs in dialysis (DaVita, Fresenius), oncology (Shannon’s Cancer Center), or wound care can command a 5-10% salary premium. Certifications in these areas (e.g., CWT for wound care) are highly valued.
• Leadership: Moving into a Charge LPN or LPN Team Lead position can bump your salary by $3-$5 per hour. This typically requires 3-5 years of solid experience and strong interpersonal skills.
• Further Education: The most significant career jump comes from becoming an RN. San Angelo has multiple ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) programs, including at Howard College and the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement. With an RN license, your salary potential can jump to $70,000+.

10-Year Outlook: The aging West Texas population will continue to drive demand in long-term care, home health, and outpatient services. The growth of telehealth and remote patient monitoring may also create new roles for LPNs in care coordination. Those who specialize and pursue additional certifications will have the best long-term prospects.

The Verdict: Is San Angelo Right for You?

Here’s a no-nonsense comparison to help you decide.

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: Housing is 20-30% below the national average.	Limited Career Specialization: Fewer niche nursing roles than in major metros.
Stable Job Market: Consistent demand from major hospitals and long-term care.	Car-Dependent: Public transit is limited; a reliable vehicle is a must.
Manageable Pace: Less traffic and stress than big cities; strong community feel.	Remote Location: Far from other major cities (2.5+ hours to Midland/Odessa).
No State Income Tax: More of your paycheck stays in your pocket.	Entertainment Options: Fewer concerts, museums, and international cuisine options.
Path to Homeownership: A realistic goal for a single LPN on a median salary.	Weather: Hot, dry summers and occasional severe weather (dust storms, thunderstorms).

Final Recommendation: San Angelo is an excellent choice for LPNs who prioritize affordability, work-life balance, and community over the fast-paced, high-specialty environment of a major coastal city. It’s particularly well-suited for:

• New Grads looking to gain solid experience without the pressure of a massive hospital system.
• LPNs with families who want to buy a home and raise kids in a stable environment.
• Experienced nurses seeking a change of pace and a lower cost of living.

If your primary goal is to climb the ladder into highly specialized nursing fields right away, you might find more opportunities in Dallas or Houston. But for a sustainable career with a high quality of life, San Angelo is a strong, data-backed contender.

FAQs

Q: What is the job search like for LPNs in San Angelo?
A: The market is competitive but not overcrowded. Most jobs are filled through online applications on hospital and company websites. Networking is key—join the local chapter of the Texas Nurses Association or attend health fairs. The 194 jobs currently in the metro mean there are openings, but be prepared for a 1-3 month search.

Q: Is San Angelo a good place for a new LPN graduate?
A: Yes. The major hospitals (Shannon, SACMC) offer new graduate residency programs that provide structured orientation and mentorship. The patient-to-staff ratios are generally more manageable than in larger cities, allowing new nurses to build confidence. The lower cost of living also reduces financial stress while you start your career.

Q: How does the licensing process work if I’m moving from another state?
A: You'll apply for licensure by endorsement through the Texas Board of Nursing. You’ll need to verify your current license, provide official transcripts, and may need to complete the Texas Jurisprudence Exam. The process takes about 4-8 weeks. Some employers may offer a temporary work permit while you wait for your full Texas license.

Q: What’s the call like for LPNs in specialties like home health?
A: Home health is a growing sector in San Angelo. LPNs in this field often have more autonomy but must be highly organized and self-motivated. Schedules can be variable, and you must be comfortable driving across the large San Angelo metro area (which can be 30+ miles from end to end). Pay is often similar to hospital work, but with a different daily rhythm.

Q: Are there opportunities for LPNs to work in schools or public health?
A: Yes, but they are limited. The San Angelo Independent School District (SAISD) and other local districts employ LPNs for student health services, though many RN positions are also used. Public health roles are primarily with the Tom Green County Health Department. These positions are highly sought after due to their standard business hours and benefits, so competition is fierce. It’s a good long-term goal for an experienced LPN.