The Licensed Practical Nurse's Guide to Virginia Beach, VA

As someone who's navigated this city's healthcare landscape for years, I can tell you that Virginia Beach offers a unique blend of career stability and coastal living. It's not as high-paying as Northern Virginia, but the cost of living and job density tell a compelling story for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). This guide cuts through the noise with hard data and on-the-ground insights about what it really means to build a nursing career here.

The Salary Picture: Where Virginia Beach Stands

Let's start with the numbers that matter. The median salary for an LPN in Virginia Beach is $54,193/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $26.05/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $54,620/year, but that gap closes significantly when you factor in Virginia's cost of living.

The metro area has 907 LPN jobs, a robust number for a regional market. The 10-year job growth projection sits at 5%, which is steady and reliable—think consistent opportunities rather than explosive growth. This stability is a hallmark of Virginia's healthcare sector, which is anchored by military and aging population demands.

Here’s how salary breaks down by experience level in our local market. I've based this on aggregated job postings and conversations with hiring managers at local hospitals.

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary (Virginia Beach)	Key Local Employers at This Level
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$48,000 - $52,000	Sentara Princess Anne, local nursing homes, home health agencies
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$54,193 - $58,000	Sentara Virginia Beach General, Bon Secours, large assisted living facilities
Senior/Expert (8+ years)	$58,000 - $65,000+	Specialty clinics (oncology, dialysis), charge nurse roles, education/supervision

Insider Tip: The $54,193 median is your baseline. With shift differentials (evenings, nights, weekends) and specialized certifications, you can push your earnings toward the $60,000 mark without needing a decade of experience. Always ask about differentials during interviews.

Compared to other Virginia cities, Virginia Beach sits in a middle tier. It's higher than Roanoke or Lynchburg but trails the D.C. suburbs (Arlington, Fairfax) where salaries can be 15-20% higher. However, those high salaries are immediately eaten by housing costs. In Virginia Beach, your $26.05/hour goes much further, especially if you're willing to commute from more affordable neighborhoods.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

On a $54,193 salary, your take-home pay is roughly $3,200 - $3,400 per month after taxes (assuming single filer, standard deduction, and typical state/federal withholdings). This is a realistic estimate based on Virginia's tax structure.

Let's break down a monthly budget for a single LPN living in Virginia Beach. The city's average 1BR rent is $1,287/month, and the Cost of Living Index is 97.4 (slightly below the U.S. average of 100). This index is a key advantage—it means your dollar stretches here.

Monthly Expense	Estimated Cost	Notes & Local Context
Net Income (Take-Home)	$3,300	After taxes, for a median earner
Rent (1BR, Average)	$1,287	You can find cheaper in suburbs like Kempsville or Princess Anne; pricier in Oceanfront or Town Center
Utilities (Electric, Water, Gas, Internet)	$250	Summer AC bills are real; budget $200-$300 for peak months
Groceries	$400	Shop at Kroger, Aldi, or the Virginia Beach Farmers Market for deals
Transportation (Car Payment, Gas, Insurance)	$550	Virginia Beach is car-dependent; gas is ~$3.50/gal; insurance is moderate
Health Insurance (if not employer-covered)	$150	Many employers offer plans; this is a potential savings
Student Loan/Debt	$200	Varies widely, but a common burden for new nurses
Savings/Entertainment/Misc.	$463	The remainder for savings, dining out, beach activities, etc.

Can they afford to buy a home? This is a critical question. The median home price in Virginia Beach is around $350,000. On a $54,193 salary, a mortgage would be a significant stretch, especially with today's interest rates. Most LPNs at the median salary rent, especially early in their careers. However, with a partner's income, moving to a senior level ($60k+), or buying in more affordable suburbs like Green Run or Pungo, homeownership becomes a realistic 5-10 year goal.

Personal Insight: Many nurses I know live in Kempsville or Princess Anne—areas with slightly older housing stock and lower rents, offering a 15-20 minute commute to major hospitals. It's a smart move to keep housing costs under $1,100/month, freeing up over $300 for savings or debt repayment.

Where the Jobs Are: Virginia Beach's Major Employers

The job market is anchored by large healthcare systems and a significant military population (which drives demand for VA services and private clinics). Here are the key players where 907 LPN jobs live:

1. Sentara Healthcare: The largest employer in the region. Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital is a Level III Trauma center, and Sentara Princess Anne Hospital is a growing facility. They actively hire LPNs for med-surg, orthopedics, and outpatient clinics. Hiring is consistent; check their careers page weekly.
2. Bon Secours Mercy Health: Operates Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center in nearby Portsmouth (a 15-minute drive) and numerous outpatient clinics in VB. They have a strong reputation for community care and often have openings in home health and palliative care.
3. Chesapeake Regional Healthcare: While based in Chesapeake, their system is a major employer for VB residents. The Chesapeake Regional Medical Center is a short commute and offers diverse LPN roles, including in their busy ER and surgical units.
4. Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center: Located in Hampton (15-20 mins from VB), this is a huge employer for LPNs with an interest in serving veterans. VA jobs offer federal benefits, pensions, and strong job security. The commute is straightforward via I-64.
5. Large Nursing Homes & Assisted Living: Companies like Sunrise Senior Living, Brookdale, and SentryCare have multiple facilities in VB. These are excellent entry points for new LPNs and offer predictable schedules. The Virginian-Pilot often lists openings for these facilities.
6. Home Health Agencies: Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) of Tidewater and Interim HealthCare are major local players. They offer autonomy and a different pace, ideal for LPNs who prefer one-on-one patient care and less institutional bureaucracy.
7. Private Specialty Clinics: Numerous clinics (Oncology, Dialysis, Wound Care) employ LPNs. Companies like DaVita Dialysis and US Oncology have a presence here. These roles often command a premium ($55k-$60k) due to specialized skills.

Hiring Trends: There's a steady demand, but competition is moderate. The biggest need is in long-term care and home health. Seasonal fluctuations occur (winter brings more respiratory illnesses), but overall, it's a year-round market. Insider Tip: Many jobs are filled through internal referrals. Connect with LPNs on LinkedIn who work at your target employers; a simple message can get your resume seen.

Getting Licensed in VA

To work as an LPN in Virginia, you must be licensed by the Virginia Board of Nursing. If you're already licensed in another state, you'll need to apply for licensure by endorsement. If you're new, you'll need to pass the NCLEX-PN.

Key Steps & Costs:

1. Education: Complete an approved LPN program (typically 12 months). Local options include Tidewater Community College (TCC) and Centura College. TCC is the most affordable and respected public option.
2. NCLEX-PN Exam: After graduation, apply to take the exam. The application fee is $50, and the NCLEX-PN exam fee is $200. Total: $250.
3. Background Check: A fingerprint-based criminal background check is required, costing about $50.
4. Licensure by Endorsement (for out-of-state nurses): If you're already licensed, the fee is $125. You'll need to verify your current license and may need to complete a course on Virginia-specific nursing law (often free online).

Timeline: From starting your application to receiving your Virginia license, expect 4-8 weeks if you're already licensed elsewhere. For new graduates, it can take 2-3 months post-NCLEX to get your license. Start the process at least 30 days before you plan to start a job.

Pro Tip: The Virginia Board of Nursing website is your best friend. Keep a digital copy of your license and all documentation. Many employers in Virginia Beach require you to have your license in hand before your first shift.

Best Neighborhoods for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPNs)

Virginia Beach is a city of distinct neighborhoods, and your choice impacts commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a breakdown for an LPN seeking balance:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute to Major Hospitals	1BR Rent Estimate	Best For...
Kempsville	Suburban, family-friendly. 15-20 min to Sentara VA Beach General.	$1,150 - $1,300	New LPNs seeking affordability and a quiet home base.
Princess Anne	Quiet, academic (near TCC & Regent Univ). 15-25 min to hospitals.	$1,100 - $1,250	Those who value peace over nightlife; good for saving money.
Oceanfront (North End)	Energetic, walkable, touristy. 10-15 min to Sentara VA Beach General.	$1,300 - $1,600+	LPNs who want a vibrant social scene and don't mind a higher rent.
Town Center	Urban, modern, retail/dining hub. 10-15 min to Sentara VA Beach General.	$1,350 - $1,500	Young professionals who want a walkable, "city" feel without the D.C. price tag.
Green Run / Lake Smith	Affordable, established neighborhoods. 20-25 min to hospitals.	$1,050 - $1,200	Budget-conscious LPNs willing to commute for lower rent and more space.

Commute Insight: Traffic on I-64 and Virginia Beach Boulevard (Rt. 44) can be heavy during rush hour (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM). Living on the same side of the city as your job is a huge quality-of-life win. For a job at Sentara Princess Anne, look south of Rose Hall Road. For Sentara VA Beach General, look near the Princess Anne area or Virginia Beach Blvd corridor.

The Long Game: Career Growth

An LPN license is a solid foundation, but your career trajectory in Virginia Beach depends on specialization and continued education.

Specialty Premiums & Advancements:

• Dialysis: LPNs in dialysis clinics can earn $58,000 - $62,000 due to the technical skill required.
• Wound Care/Certified Wound Care Nurse (CWCN): With certification, you can move into outpatient wound centers, commanding a similar premium.
• IV Therapy Certification: While scope of practice for LPNs is limited in Virginia, having IV certification can open doors in certain settings like infusion centers (under supervision) and home health.
• Charge Nurse/Supervisory Roles: In long-term care or home health, experienced LPNs can become charge nurses, with salaries approaching $60,000.
• Bridge to RN: The most common advancement. TCC and Old Dominion University (ODU) offer LPN-to-RN bridge programs. An RN in Virginia Beach earns a median of $75,000-$85,000, a significant jump. This is a 1-2 year investment with a high ROI.

10-Year Outlook: The 5% job growth is driven by an aging population and a growing military/veteran community. The demand for LPNs in home health, hospice, and long-term care will remain strong. Automation and tech will affect documentation more than direct care, so your interpersonal skills will always be in demand. The key to longevity and higher pay is specialization. Don't stay in a general med-surg role for too long if you want to increase your earning power.

The Verdict: Is Virginia Beach Right for You?

Virginia Beach is a pragmatic choice for LPNs seeking a stable career with a manageable cost of living. It's not a "get rich quick" nursing market, but it offers a sustainable lifestyle.

Pros	Cons
Stable job market with 907 openings and 5% growth.	Salaries are slightly below national average.
Lower cost of living (97.4 index) than many metro areas.	Traffic and urban sprawl can mean long commutes.
Diverse employer base: hospitals, VA, nursing homes, home health.	Summers are humid and crowded with tourists.
Outdoor lifestyle: beaches, parks, and water activities are free.	Career advancement often requires additional certification/RN bridge.
Military community offers unique VA and private sector opportunities.	Nightlife and cultural scene are smaller than major cities.

Final Recommendation: Virginia Beach is an excellent fit for LPNs who prioritize work-life balance and affordability over top-tier salaries. It's ideal for:

• New graduates looking for a manageable first job market.
• LPNs from higher-cost areas seeking to stretch their income.
• Those with a long-term plan to specialize or bridge to RN.

If you're solely motivated by maximizing your salary and don't mind a HCOL, cities like Richmond or Northern Virginia might be better. But for a balanced life where you can afford a 1BR, enjoy the beach, and still find nursing jobs with solid benefits, Virginia Beach is a smart, data-backed choice.

FAQs

Q: How competitive is the job market for a new LPN graduate in Virginia Beach?
A: Moderately competitive. You won't have 100 applicants for one job, but you will have competition. Having your Virginia license in hand, a clean background check, and any prior healthcare experience (like CNA) will make you a strong candidate. Apply to multiple employers, not just hospitals.

Q: Do I need a car in Virginia Beach?
A: Yes, absolutely. Public transportation (Hampton Roads Transit) exists but is not reliable for shift work. A car is a near-necessity for commuting and running errands. Factor in car payment, insurance, and gas (approx. $550/month) into your budget.

Q: What's the best way to find a job quickly?
A: Use a multi-pronged approach: 1) Check the major employer career sites directly (Sentara, Bon Secours, VA), 2) Use Indeed and LinkedIn, 3) Contact local staffing agencies like Aya Healthcare or Maxim Healthcare Services for temp-to-perm opportunities. Many nursing homes also hire directly through open interviews.

Q: Is it worth it to get a specialty certification as an LPN in Virginia?
A: Absolutely. In a market with a $54,193 median salary, a specialty like dialysis or wound care can push you to $60,000. It also makes you more marketable and can be a stepping stone to an RN role. Check with the National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses for recognized certifications.

Q: What's the biggest surprise for nurses moving to Virginia Beach?
A: The humidity and the traffic. Be prepared for a sticky summer and to plan your commute around the I-64 bottleneck. On the positive side, the sense of community among healthcare workers is strong, and being able to decompress at the beach after a shift is a unique perk you won't find in many other cities.