Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Springfield, MO

The Salary Picture: Where Springfield Stands

Springfield, Missouri, offers a compelling financial picture for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), especially when you factor in the city's low cost of living. The median salary for an LPN in Springfield is $52,866/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $25.42/hour. While this is slightly below the national average of $54,620/year, the affordability of Springfield stretches that dollar much further. For context, the metro population of Springfield is 170,178, creating a robust but manageable healthcare job market with an estimated 340 current openings for LPNs and a projected 10-year job growth of 5%, keeping pace with national trends.

To understand where you fit, here’s a breakdown of salary progression based on experience in the Springfield area. This data is compiled from local job postings and regional surveys.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Springfield)	Notes
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$46,000 - $50,000	Typically starts in long-term care or home health.
Mid-Career (3-7 years)	$51,000 - $55,000	Aligns with the local median; common in clinics and hospitals.
Senior (8-15 years)	$56,000 - $62,000	Often includes shift differentials or specialized roles.
Expert/Specialized (15+ years)	$63,000 - $70,000+	Leadership, education, or niche clinical specialties.

Insider Tip: The difference between the national average and Springfield's median is about $1,754. However, with Springfield's Cost of Living Index at 89.3 (where the U.S. average is 100), your effective purchasing power is significantly higher here than in many cities that pay more on paper.

When comparing to other Missouri cities, Springfield's LPN salary is competitive. St. Louis and Kansas City offer slightly higher median salaries (often in the $55k-$58k range), but their cost of living is 10-20% higher. For example, a similar 1BR apartment in Kansas City averages over $1,200/month, compared to Springfield's $723/month. This makes Springfield a smart financial choice for LPNs prioritizing savings or debt repayment.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about your monthly budget on Springfield's median salary of $52,866. This is crucial for understanding your quality of life. Here’s a practical, after-tax monthly breakdown for a single filer (using standard 2023 tax brackets and a conservative 25% effective tax rate, which includes federal, state, and FICA).

Assumptions:

• Annual Gross Salary: $52,866
• Monthly Gross: $4,405.50
• Estimated Taxes (25%): -$1,101.38
• Net Monthly Take-Home: ~$3,304.12

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR Average)	$723	Springfield's average. Can range $600-$900.
Utilities (Electric/Gas/Water)	$150	Varies by season; higher in summer for A/C.
Groceries	$250	For one person, shopping at local chains like Price Cutter or Hy-Vee.
Transportation (Gas/Insurance)	$180	Assumes a car payment (average for used car) and insurance.
Health Insurance	$150	Employer-sponsored plan (employee contribution).
Student Loan/Payment	$150	Average LPN program debt.
Miscellaneous (Phone, Internet, etc.)	$150	Basic necessities.
Discretionary Fund	$1,351	For savings, entertainment, emergencies.

Total Estimated Expenses: ~$1,953
Remaining Discretionary/Savings: ~$1,351

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely, and it’s a major advantage of living in Springfield. With a disciplined budget, saving for a down payment is feasible. The median home price in Springfield is approximately $160,000-$180,000. A 10% down payment ($16k-$18k) is achievable in 2-3 years by saving $500-$600 of your discretionary funds monthly. The Cost of Living Index of 89.3 makes homeownership a realistic goal for LPNs here, unlike in higher-cost metro areas.

Where the Jobs Are: Springfield's Major Employers

Springfield's healthcare sector is the city’s largest employer, and LPNs are in constant demand. The market is dominated by a few major systems and a strong network of long-term care facilities. The 340 current openings reflect a steady need, especially in gerontology and primary care.

1. Mercy Springfield

• Details: The region's largest hospital, part of the nationally recognized Mercy health system. Offers a full spectrum of care, from emergency to oncology.
• LPN Roles: Primarily in Med/Surg units, same-day surgery, and outpatient clinics. They also hire LPNs for their home health division, Mercy at Home.
• Hiring Trend: Steady growth, with a focus on expanding outpatient services. They have a tuition reimbursement program for LPNs wanting to bridge to RN.

2. CoxHealth

• Details: Another major health system, home to Cox South Hospital and a network of specialty clinics. Known for its strong community focus and level II trauma center.
• LPN Roles: Abundant opportunities in their ambulatory surgery centers, orthopedic clinics, and the CoxHealth Home Care program. They also have a large senior care division.
• Hiring Trend: Actively hiring LPNs for their new outpatient projects and urgent care clinics. Shift differentials for evenings and weekends are standard.

3. Northridge Medical Center (Aramon Health)

• Details: A 90-bed acute care hospital in north Springfield, part of the Aramon Health network. It offers a more intimate, community-hospital feel.
• LPN Roles: Focus on Med/Surg, swing bed (transitional care), and the emergency department (as a tech/assistant under RN supervision).
• Hiring Trend: Growing as the north side of Springfield expands. A great place for LPNs seeking a less corporate environment.

4. Jordan Valley Community Health Center

• Details: A Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) serving Springfield’s most vulnerable populations. It provides integrated care, including medical, dental, and behavioral health.
• LPN Roles: LPNs are the backbone of clinic flow, managing patient intake, vitals, immunizations, and chronic disease management (diabetes, hypertension).
• Hiring Trend: Consistent growth due to federal funding and community need. Offers a strong mission-driven work environment.

5. Springfield Private Nursing Homes & Assisted Living (e.g., The Bridge, Maranatha)

• Details: Springfield has a dense network of long-term care facilities. These are often the largest employers of LPNs in the region.
• LPN Roles: Direct care in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), assisted living, and memory care units. Supervisory roles are common for experienced LPNs.
• Hiring Trend: Extremely high demand due to an aging population. Facilities often offer sign-on bonuses and flexible schedules to attract talent.

6. CoxHealth Emergency Department (Northridge) & Mercy Urgent Care

• Details: These are not standalone employers but part of the larger systems. They represent the growing demand for non-hospital-based acute care.
• LPN Roles: Medical assistant/technician roles, triage, and patient prep.
• Hiring Trend: Expansion of urgent care clinics is creating new entry points for LPNs.

Getting Licensed in MO

To practice as an LPN in Missouri, you must be licensed by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. The process is straightforward but requires strict adherence to guidelines.

Key Requirements:

1. Education: Graduate from a state-approved practical nursing program (typically a 12-month diploma/certificate). In Springfield, top programs include:
   • Ozarks Technical Community College (OTC): The largest and most recognized, with a main campus in Springfield.
   • Missouri State University (MSU): Offers an LPN program through its School of Nursing.
   • Vatterott College (Springfield campus): A private, accelerated option.
2. Exam: Pass the NCLEX-PN exam.
3. Background Check: Submit to a fingerprint-based criminal background check.
4. Application: Apply online through the Missouri Board of Nursing website, pay the $175 licensing fee, and provide official transcripts.

Timeline & Cost:

• Program Duration: 10-12 months of full-time study.
• NCLEX-PN: Schedule within 30 days of program completion. The exam fee is $200.
• Total Estimated Cost (Education + Licensing): $12,000 - $20,000 for tuition and fees. OTC’s program is notably affordable for in-district residents.

Insider Tip: The Missouri Board of Nursing processes applications efficiently, often within 2-4 weeks after NCLEX results. However, the biggest delay can be the background check—schedule it early. Once licensed, Missouri has multi-state compact privileges (NLC), meaning you can practice in other compact states (like Kansas or Arkansas) without additional licenses.

Best Neighborhoods for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPNs)

Springfield’s neighborhoods vary widely in vibe, safety, and commute to major hospitals. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Safety & Amenities	Avg. 1BR Rent
South Springfield (Galloway/Republic Rd)	Family-friendly, quiet. 15-20 min commute to Mercy & CoxHealth.	Excellent schools, parks, and shopping (Galloway Village). Very safe.	$750 - $900
Central Springfield (Downtown/Rountree)	Historic, walkable, trendy. 5-10 min commute to Cox & Mercy downtown clinics.	Diverse dining, nightlife, older homes. Mixed safety; research blocks.	$700 - $1,100
North Springfield (Northridge)	Suburban, growing. 5-15 min commute to Northridge Medical Center & CoxHealth.	Newer apartments, easy highway access. Generally safe.	$650 - $800
West Springfield (Battlefield Rd Corridor)	Convenient, commercial. 10-20 min commute to all major hospitals.	Major retail, easy access. Can be busy; choose streets behind main roads.	$700 - $850
East Springfield (McDaniel & Parkview)	Established, residential. 10-15 min commute to Mercy & Jordan Valley.	Mature trees, quieter, good value. Safe and community-oriented.	$650 - $775

Insider Tip: For a new LPN, North Springfield offers the best balance of affordability, short commute to growing employers like Northridge, and newer housing stock. If you’re a social butterfly who wants to be in the heart of the action, Central Springfield is unbeatable, though you’ll pay a premium for trendy 1BRs near downtown.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Springfield is a solid launchpad, but long-term growth requires strategy. The 10-year job growth of 5% is stable, but specialization is key to reaching the top of the pay scale ($63,000 - $70,000+).

Specialty Premiums (within Springfield):

• Gerontology/LTC Supervision: +$2-$3/hr. With Springfield's aging population, this is a high-demand niche.
• Infusion Therapy (Clinics): +$1-$2/hr. Skills in IV start and maintenance are valuable.
• Case Management (Home Health): +$3-$4/hr. Requires strong organizational skills and often a driver's license.
• Occupational Health (Corporate Clinics): +$2-$3/hr. Involve worker's comp exams and drug screens.

Advancement Paths:

1. Clinical Ladder: Within systems like Mercy and Cox, LPNs can advance to "Clinical Nurse II/III" based on experience and certifications, leading to pay bumps without changing roles.
2. Bridge to RN: The most common path. Springfield has excellent RN programs (OTC, MSU, Baptist College). Many employers offer tuition reimbursement. This is the single biggest salary lever, potentially increasing earnings by 30-40%.
3. Specialized Certifications: Pursue certifications like Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) or Wound Care Certification. These are often employer-sponsored and add value.
4. Leadership: Move into roles like Charge LPN, Unit Coordinator, or Nursing Supervisor in long-term care. These roles leverage experience for a managerial salary.

10-Year Outlook: Springfield's healthcare market will remain strong. The need for LPNs in home health and long-term care will grow faster than in acute care due to demographic trends. LPNs who specialize and/or pursue an RN degree will see the most robust career and salary growth.

The Verdict: Is Springfield Right for You?

Springfield is an exceptional choice for LPNs seeking financial stability, career opportunity, and a high quality of life without the stress of a major coastal city. It’s a place where your salary goes far, the job market is active, and you can build a life.

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living (89.3 Index): Your $52,866 salary provides a comfortable life.	Limited High-End Specialties: Fewer niche research or cutting-edge tech roles than in St. Louis/KC.
Strong, Diverse Job Market: Major employers (Mercy, Cox) and a dense network of LTC facilities.	Lower Ceiling for LPN-Only: Without bridging to RN, top pay caps around $70k.
Homeownership is Accessible: Median home prices are attainable on an LPN salary.	Cultural/Arts Scene is Smaller: Fewer big concerts, museums, or international cuisine options.
Compact Nursing License: Easy to work in nearby states without re-licensing.	Car-Dependent: Public transit is limited; a reliable vehicle is essential.
Community Feel: A city large enough for amenities but small enough to know your neighbors.	Weather: Summers are hot and humid; winters can have ice storms.

Final Recommendation:
Springfield is highly recommended for LPNs in their first 10 years of practice, especially those who value affordability and career foundation. It’s an ideal location to gain experience, save money, and either specialize or bridge to an RN degree. If you are an expert LPN seeking the absolute highest salary in a cutting-edge specialty, you might look to St. Louis or out-of-state. But for most LPNs, Springfield offers the best overall package.

FAQs

1. What’s the real job market like for new LPN graduates in Springfield?
It’s very active. Graduates from OTC or MSU often have job offers before graduation. The majority of openings are in long-term care and home health. Hospitals may prefer 1-2 years of experience for Med/Surg roles, but clinics and urgent cares frequently hire new grads. Networking during clinical rotations is critical.

2. How does the cost of living really compare to the national average?
The Cost of Living Index of 89.3 means Springfield is about 10.7% cheaper than the U.S. average. The biggest savings are in housing (rents are 40-50% lower than national average). Groceries and utilities are also lower. Transportation costs are comparable, as you need a car.

3. Is it easy to transition from LPN to RN in Springfield?
Yes, exceptionally so. Springfield is a hub for nursing education. OTC and MSU have well-regarded RN programs with evening/weekend tracks for working LPNs. Most major employers (Mercy, Cox) offer substantial tuition reimbursement—often covering 100% of tuition after a one-year commitment. This is a strategic and financially savvy path for long-term growth.

4. What’s the best way to find housing as a newcomer?
Use local real estate sites like RentFunnel.com (a Springfield-specific site) and Facebook Marketplace. Avoid signing a lease without visiting in person. For a short-term rental while you search, consider extended-stay hotels on the south side or near the airport, which are common for traveling nurses and new hires. North Springfield and South Springfield are top picks for a safe, easy commute.

5. Are there opportunities for LPNs to work outside of traditional hospitals?
Absolutely. Springfield’s public health system is strong. Jordan Valley Community Health Center is a major FQHC employer. Other niches include:

• Correctional Facilities: The Greene County Jail and nearby state prisons hire LPNs.
• Schools: LPNs work in some Springfield Public Schools, managing medications and health screenings.
• Corporate Clinics: Companies like Bass Pro Shops (headquartered in Springfield) have on-site health clinics.
• Industrial/Occupational Health: Manufacturing plants and distribution centers have clinics for worker injuries.