Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Spokane, WA

As a career analyst who’s spent years mapping out professional paths in the Pacific Northwest, I’ve seen a lot of nurses move to Spokane. It’s a city that flies under the radar—no Seattle-level hustle, but a robust healthcare scene that’s more affordable and accessible than you might think. For an LPN, it’s a place where you can build a solid, stable career without the crushing cost of living found elsewhere in the state. This guide is built on hard data and local knowledge to give you a clear picture of what your life and career would look like here.

The Salary Picture: Where Spokane Stands

Spokane’s LPN salary market is competitive, especially when you factor in the cost of living. The median salary of $54,783/year ($26.34/hour) is right in the thick of it. It’s slightly above the national average of $54,620/year, but the real story is how far that money goes here. Washington State is known for high wages, but they’re often tethered to astronomical housing costs in the Puget Sound. Spokane offers a different equation: a respectable paycheck paired with a manageable cost of living.

Here’s how pay typically breaks down by experience level in the Spokane market. Note that these are ranges; individual facilities may offer more based on shift differentials, specialty certifications, or immediate hiring needs.

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary (Spokane)	Typical Hourly Rate
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$48,000 - $53,000	$23.08 - $25.48
Mid-Level (2-5 yrs)	$53,000 - $58,000	$25.48 - $27.88
Senior (5-10 yrs)	$58,000 - $64,000	$27.88 - $30.77
Expert (10+ yrs)	$64,000 - $70,000+	$30.77 - $33.65+

Insider Tip: The biggest salary jump often comes with a move into a specialty. An LPN in a general med-surg unit will earn the base, but an LPN with a certification in geriatrics or wound care can command $2-$4 more per hour.

Comparison to Other WA Cities:

• Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue: Median LPN salary is closer to $62,000/year, but the average 1BR rent is over $1,800. Your disposable income is often lower.
• Vancouver, WA: Salaries are similar to Spokane (~$55,000/year), but it’s heavily influenced by the Portland metro market, with slightly higher housing costs.
• Yakima/Tri-Cities: Salaries are a bit lower (~$50,000-$52,000/year), and the job market, while stable, is smaller.

Jobs in Metro: There are approximately 458 LPN jobs listed in the Spokane metro area at any given time, indicating a steady, active market.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about the numbers. A median salary of $54,783 translates to roughly $4,565 per month before taxes. After federal, state (WA has no income tax), and FICA taxes, your take-home pay will be approximately $3,500 - $3,700 per month, depending on your specific deductions.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Single LPN):

• Take-Home Pay: ~$3,600
• Rent (Average 1BR): $1,012
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet): $150
• Car Payment/Insurance (Spokane is a car-centric city): $350
• Groceries & Household: $350
• Health Insurance (if not covered by employer): $150
• Student Loans/Other Debt: $200
• Discretionary (Fuel, entertainment, savings): $1,388

This budget leaves a healthy cushion for savings, emergency funds, or lifestyle expenses. The key is that rent is under 30% of your take-home pay, which is a strong financial position.

Can they afford to buy a home?
Yes, but it requires planning. The median home price in Spokane is around $325,000. With a 10% down payment ($32,500) and a good credit score, a monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would be roughly $1,900-$2,100. That’s higher than rent but achievable for a dual-income household or a single LPN with several years of experience and savings. Many LPNs here partner with local credit unions like STCU (Spokane Teachers Credit Union) for favorable first-time homebuyer programs.

Where the Jobs Are: Spokane's Major Employers

Spokane’s healthcare ecosystem is anchored by a few major players, with opportunities in hospital systems, long-term care, and home health. Hiring is consistent, with high demand in geriatric care due to the region's aging population.

1. Providence Health & Services (Sacred Heart Medical Center & Holy Family Hospital): The largest employer in the region. They have a massive network, including outpatient clinics. Hiring Trend: They are actively expanding their primary care and specialty clinic footprint, creating more 9-to-5 LPN roles outside of the traditional hospital setting.
2. MultiCare Health System (Deaconess Hospital & Valley Hospital): MultiCare is a major competitor with a strong focus on community health. Hiring Trend: They have a robust home health and hospice division, which is a growing field for LPNs seeking autonomy and regular hours.
3. Kaiser Permanente (Spokane Clinic): While their inpatient presence is smaller, their outpatient clinics are a major employer. Hiring Trend: Kaiser is always looking for LPNs for their high-volume primary care and specialty clinics. This is a fantastic option for those who want to avoid shift work.
4. Spokane Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center: A stable, federal employer with excellent benefits. Hiring Trend: Hiring can be competitive and slow due to the federal process, but turnover is low. They prioritize veterans, but it’s a great long-term career home.
5. Avista Adventist Care Center & Other Long-Term Care Facilities: Spokane has dozens of skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and assisted living communities. Hiring Trend: This is the area with the most immediate openings. Facilities are perpetually short-staffed and often offer sign-on bonuses and flexible schedules.
6. Sunrise Services & Inland Northwest Health Services (Home Health): If you prefer home-based care, these agencies are key players. Hiring Trend: A growing field. You’ll need a reliable car and enjoy the autonomy of visiting clients in their homes.

Insider Tip: Many jobs are filled through staffing agencies like AMN Healthcare or local firms. In Spokane, a significant portion of hospital and LTC jobs start as “travel” or “contract” positions. Taking a 13-week contract can be a fast-track to getting your foot in the door and converting to a permanent role.

Getting Licensed in WA

If you’re already an LPN licensed in another state, Washington is a compact state (NLC). If your primary state of residence is part of the compact, you can practice in Washington without a new license. If not, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement.

For New Graduates or Out-of-State Applicants:

1. Education: Graduate from an approved LPN program.
2. NCLEX-PN Exam: Pass the national licensing exam.
3. Washington State Application: Submit an application to the Washington State Department of Health (DOH), along with a fingerprint card for a background check.
4. Costs: Application fee is $125, plus $50 for fingerprinting. Total initial cost: ~$175.
5. Timeline: The process can take 4-8 weeks after you submit all documents. Check the DOH website for current processing times.

Timeline to Get Started:

• If licensed in a compact state: You can start applying to jobs immediately.
• If not: Begin the endorsement process before you move. You can often secure a provisional license to start working while your full license is processed.

Insider Tip: The Washington State Nurses Association (WSNA) is a powerful resource for advocacy and continuing education. Consider joining for networking and professional support.

Best Neighborhoods for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPNs)

Spokane is a city of distinct neighborhoods. Your choice will depend on your commute, lifestyle, and budget.

1. South Hill (Average Rent: $1,200): The classic, family-friendly neighborhood. Tree-lined streets, excellent schools, and easy access to Providence Sacred Heart. Commute is straightforward (15-20 mins). Great for those seeking a quiet, suburban feel.
2. North Spokane / Wandermere (Average Rent: $1,050): Home to MultiCare Deaconess and the VA Medical Center. More affordable than the South Hill, with a mix of older homes and new developments. Commutes to downtown are easy via Division Street. Good balance of city access and suburban comfort.
3. Downtown / Kendall Yards (Average Rent: $1,350): Best for the car-free lifestyle. Walkable to restaurants, parks, and the Centennial Trail. Close to the downtown clinics and hospitals. Insider Tip: Parking is a challenge and more expensive here. Ideal for younger LPNs or those who don't mind a shorter commute.
4. West Central / Hillyard (Average Rent: $900): More affordable and up-and-coming. You’ll find older, more character-filled homes and a strong sense of community. Commute times are short to most employers. A great option for budget-conscious new grads or single LPNs.
5. Spokane Valley (Average Rent: $1,100): A sprawling suburb east of the city. Home to Valley Hospital and many outpatient clinics. Very family-oriented, with big-box stores and chain restaurants. Commute times are minimal if you work in the Valley.

The Long Game: Career Growth

An LPN in Spokane has several pathways for advancement without necessarily becoming an RN, though that is a common and lucrative jump.

Specialty Premiums & Advancements:

• Geriatrics/LTC: This is the bread and butter. With experience, you can move into a Charge Nurse role, overseeing other LPNs and CNAs.
• Wound Care Certification (WCC): Hospitals and LTC facilities highly value this. It can add $2-$3/hour to your pay.
• IV Therapy Certification: In Washington, LPNs can be trained in IV therapy (under specific guidelines). This skill makes you more valuable in hospital and home health settings.
• LPN to RN Bridge Programs: Spokane Community College (SCC) and Washington State University (WSU) offer excellent, affordable LPN-to-RN bridge programs. The investment (1.5-2 years) typically leads to a $10-$15/hour pay increase and vastly expanded scope of practice.

10-Year Outlook:
The 10-year job growth for LPNs in Washington is projected at 5%, keeping pace with national averages. The driver is the aging population and the continued need for long-term care services. While automation won’t replace hands-on care, the role may evolve with more integrated technologies in patient monitoring. The most growth will be in home health and outpatient settings as healthcare shifts away from expensive inpatient stays.

The Verdict: Is Spokane Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: Your salary stretches much further than in Seattle or Portland.	Weather: Long, gray winters with consistent rain and some snow. Can be tough if you’re from a sunny climate.
Stable Job Market: Multiple large health systems and a constant need in long-term care.	Car Dependency: Public transit is improving but not comprehensive. A car is a near-necessity.
Work-Life Balance: Less traffic and a more relaxed pace of life compared to major coastal cities.	Economic Diversity: While healthcare is strong, other sectors are less robust. Job options for a spouse may be limited.
Outdoor Access: World-class hiking, skiing, and water activities are minutes away.	Cultural Scene: Smaller than a major metro. Fewer large concerts, museums, and diverse dining options.

Final Recommendation:
Spokane is an excellent choice for LPNs who prioritize financial stability and quality of life over the intensity of a major coastal city. It’s ideal for those looking to buy a home, enjoy the outdoors, and build a long-term career in a supportive community. If you thrive in a smaller-city environment and don’t mind the weather, you can build a very comfortable life here. For those seeking the highest possible salary and a non-stop cultural scene, Seattle may be a better fit—just be prepared for a much higher financial burden.

FAQs

1. Is the job market for LPNs in Spokane competitive?
It’s active, not cutthroat. There are always openings, especially in long-term care and home health. Hospitals may be more selective, but they have consistent turnover. Having your Washington license and any specialty certs (like IV therapy) puts you at the front of the line.

2. Do I need a car?
Almost certainly. While the Kendall Yards and downtown areas are becoming more walkable, Spokane is spread out. Most LPN jobs are not clustered in a single downtown area, and public transit to suburban hospitals and clinics is limited. Budget for a reliable vehicle.

3. What are the shift options like?
Very flexible. Hospitals run 12-hour shifts (days/nights). LTC facilities often offer 8-hour shifts, weekends, and part-time options. Home health typically follows a daytime, Monday-Friday schedule. This flexibility is a major perk for balancing life and work.

4. How does the cost of living really feel?
It’s manageable. A single LPN earning the median salary can live alone, save money, and still have fun. The main squeeze is the upfront cost of a car and saving for a home down payment, but day-to-day expenses (groceries, utilities, taxes) are reasonable.

5. What’s the biggest surprise for new LPNs moving to Spokane?
The weather and the sense of community. The gray winter is real, but it’s offset by stunning summers. And the healthcare community is tight-knit; you’ll run into colleagues at the grocery store. It’s a place where you can build a network and feel connected.

Sources: Data compiled from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Census Bureau, Zillow Rental Market, and the Washington State Department of Health. Salary figures represent the local metropolitan median.