The Complete Career Guide for Licensed Practical Nurses in Wichita Falls, TX

As a career analyst who’s spent time in Wichita Falls, I’ve come to appreciate its unique position in the Texas healthcare landscape. It’s not a sprawling metro like Dallas or Houston, but it offers a stable, lower-cost lifestyle with a genuine community feel. For an LPN, this means less traffic, more predictable shifts, and a housing market that’s still within reach. This guide cuts through the fluff and gives you the data-driven, local insights you need to decide if Wichita Falls is the right move for your nursing career.

The Salary Picture: Where Wichita Falls Stands

Let’s start with the numbers that matter most. The salary landscape for LPNs in Wichita Falls is competitive for the region, but it’s crucial to understand the full scope. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local market data, the median salary for an LPN in Wichita Falls is $54,783 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $26.34. This sits slightly above the national average of $54,620 per year, a small but meaningful margin that reflects the local demand for skilled nursing staff.

Breaking it down by experience level gives you a clearer picture of your earning potential over time. While starting salaries are modest, there’s a clear path to significantly higher earnings with specialization and tenure.

Experience Level	Typical Local Salary Range	Key Factors
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$46,000 - $51,000	Often starts in long-term care or home health; shift differentials for evenings/nights can boost this.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$52,000 - $60,000	Moves into acute care settings (hospital), case management, or supervisory roles.
Senior-Level (8-15 years)	$58,000 - $68,000	Specialized roles (e.g., wound care, IV therapy), clinical educator, or assistant director of nursing in a facility.
Expert/Specialist (15+ years)	$65,000+	Often involves advanced certifications, consulting, or management positions. Top earners are in specialized clinics or leadership.

How does this compare to other Texas cities? Wichita Falls is a mid-tier market. It won’t match the salaries of Austin or Dallas, where cost of living is substantially higher. For context, the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area pays LPNs a median of around $59,000, but the average 1BR rent there is closer to $1,300. In Wichita Falls, your median salary of $54,783 goes further. San Antonio and El Paso offer similar salary ranges to Wichita Falls, but with larger city amenities. For an LPN prioritizing affordability and a slower pace, Wichita Falls presents a strong value proposition.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A salary number is just a starting point. To understand your financial reality, we need to account for taxes and, most importantly, housing—the largest expense in any budget. The Cost of Living Index in Wichita Falls is 101.0, meaning it’s 1% more expensive than the U.S. average. While slightly above average, it’s far from the extreme pressure of major coastal cities.

Let’s break down a monthly budget for an LPN earning the median salary of $54,783. (Note: These are estimates; actual take-home pay varies based on benefits, retirement contributions, and exact tax withholdings.)

Monthly Expense	Estimated Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$4,565	Based on $54,783/year.
Estimated Take-Home (After Taxes & Deductions)	~$3,400	Assumes federal/state taxes, FICA, and a modest health insurance premium.
Average 1BR Rent	$843	This is the city-wide average. See neighborhood section for specifics.
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet)	$200 - $250	Texas summers can spike A/C costs.
Groceries	$300 - $350	For one person.
Car Payment/Insurance/Gas	$400 - $600	Highly variable; Wichita Falls is car-dependent.
Health & Miscellaneous	$300	Co-pays, personal care, entertainment.
Leftover/Savings	~$700 - $1,100	This is your disposable income for savings, debt, or lifestyle.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely, and this is one of Wichita Falls’s biggest draws. The median home price in Wichita Falls is around $170,000. With a $54,783 salary, a 20% down payment ($34,000) is a significant but achievable goal for a mid-career LPN with savings. A monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) on a $170,000 home could be around $1,100-$1,200, which is not much more than the average rent. Homeownership is a realistic and financially sound long-term strategy here, unlike in many larger Texas metros.

Where the Jobs Are: Wichita Falls's Major Employers

The job market for LPNs in Wichita Falls is anchored by healthcare, but it’s diversified. There are 205 LPN jobs in the metro area, according to recent data, with a 10-year job growth projection of 5%. This isn’t explosive growth, but it’s steady and indicates consistent demand. Here are the key employers, with insider notes on their hiring cultures:

1. United Regional Health Care System: The largest employer in the region. They operate multiple facilities, including the main hospital on 10th Street and a specialized Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center. Insider Tip: United Regional often hires LPNs for their medical-surgical floors, orthopedic units, and skilled nursing facilities. They offer strong benefits and tuition reimbursement, making them a great place for advancing your career. Hiring is ongoing, with a slight uptick in winter months due to seasonal illness.

2. Wichita Falls Independent School District (WFISD): School nursing is a stable, daytime LPN role. WFISD employs LPNs to manage student health plans, administer medications, and handle emergencies. Insider Tip: These positions follow the school calendar (summers off), which is a huge perk for work-life balance. Competition can be stiff, so apply early in the hiring season (spring for the next academic year).

3. Local Long-Term Care & Skilled Nursing Facilities: Facilities like The Rehabilitation & Nursing Center of Wichita Falls and The Healthcare Center at Legacy Lodge are consistently hiring. Insider Tip: These roles are the bedrock of LPN employment. They often offer flexible schedules (including 12-hour shifts) and sign-on bonuses. The work is demanding but provides invaluable experience in chronic care management.

4. Wichita County Indigent Health Care Program: This county-run program provides care for qualified low-income residents. LPNs work in clinics assisting physicians and managing patient care. Insider Tip: Government roles offer excellent job security and benefits. Hiring is less frequent but worth monitoring.

5. Home Health Agencies: Companies like LHC Group (now part of UnitedHealth’s Optum) and AccentCare service Wichita Falls. Insider Tip: Home health offers autonomy and a different pace. You’ll need a clean driving record and your own reliable vehicle. Pay can be slightly higher per visit, but you manage your own schedule and mileage.

6. Wichita Falls Area Clinic Network: Groups like Clinic Association of Wichita Falls and individual practices (cardiology, orthopedics, family medicine) often hire LPNs for front-office and clinical support. Insider Tip: These are ideal for those who want a standard M-F, 8-5 schedule away from hospital shift work.

Getting Licensed in TX

If you’re coming from another state, you’ll need to obtain a Texas LPN license. The process is straightforward but requires planning.

Requirements (BLS & Texas Board of Nursing):

• Graduate from an approved LPN program (typically 12-18 months).
• Pass the NCLEX-PN exam.
• Submit an application to the Texas Board of Nursing (BON) with required fees (approx. $100 for the application, plus $200 for the NCLEX exam).
• Pass a criminal background check (fingerprinting).
• If licensed in another state, you can apply for endorsement. Texas is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), meaning if your primary state of residence is another compact state, you can practice in Texas without a new license. Check the Texas BON website for the most current compact status.

Timeline & Cost:

• Process Time: 4-8 weeks from application submission to receiving your license, assuming all documents are in order. Background checks can sometimes add time.
• Total Cost: Budget approximately $300-$400 for application fees, exam fees, and background check costs.

Best Neighborhoods for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)

Wichita Falls is a driving city, but choosing the right neighborhood can drastically improve your commute and quality of life. Here’s a breakdown:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Estimated 1BR Rent	Best For...
Burkburnett (North)	Small-town feel, 15-20 min to major hospitals. Quieter, family-oriented.	$750 - $900	LPNs working at United Regional (north side of town) who want a short, easy commute and lower rent.
Sikes Senter Mall Area (Central)	Central location, close to shopping and dining. Easy access to I-44.	$800 - $950	Convenience. You’re 10-15 minutes from almost any employer. Good for those who want options.
Wichita Falls Downtown	Historic, walkable. Growing arts and food scene. Commute to hospitals is ~10 minutes.	$850 - $1,100	Younger LPNs or those who want a more urban, social vibe. Less car-dependent than other areas.
Southwest Wichita Falls	Established residential area, near the airport. More affordable housing stock.	$700 - $850	Budget-conscious LPNs. Commute to the main hospital is 15-20 minutes.
Kell West (Westside)	Newer development, near Kell Blvd. Mix of apartments and townhomes.	$900 - $1,050	LPNs who prefer modern amenities and are willing to pay a bit more for a newer space.

Personal Insight: For an LPN working at United Regional’s main campus, living in Burkburnett or the Sikes Senter area offers the best balance of short commute and affordable rent. If you work night shift, proximity to the hospital is even more critical for safety and convenience.

The Long Game: Career Growth

While the 10-year job growth of 5% is modest, career advancement for LPNs in Wichita Falls is very possible. The key is specialization and moving beyond the bedside.

• Specialty Premiums: Obtaining certifications can boost your pay and opportunities. IV Therapy certification is highly valued in hospital and clinic settings. Wound Care certification can open doors in long-term care and home health. Geriatric certification is a natural fit for this area’s aging population.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Clinical Ladder: Many hospitals have a clinical ladder program where LPNs can advance to a "Clinical Nurse II" or "III" with additional certifications and experience, leading to higher pay.
  2. Management: Moving into roles like Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) in a long-term care facility is a common and lucrative next step.
  3. Education/Case Management: With experience, LPNs can move into roles as clinical educators for new hires or work in case management for home health or insurance companies.
  4. Bridge to RN: Wichita Falls has LPN-to-RN bridge programs (notably at North Texas Area University and Wichita Falls ISD CTE). The cost of living allows you to work while attending school, making this a financially viable path.

• 10-Year Outlook: The demand will be driven by the aging population. LPNs with IV and wound care skills will be in the highest demand in home health and long-term care. The growth may not be explosive, but the stability is high. Your job security as an LPN in Wichita Falls is stronger than in many other professions.

The Verdict: Is Wichita Falls Right for You?

The decision comes down to your personal priorities. Here’s a clear comparison:

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: Your $54,783 salary goes much further here than in a major metro. Homeownership is realistic.	Limited Nightlife & Culture: It’s a quiet city. If you crave constant concerts, major sports, and diverse dining, you may feel constrained.
Stable Job Market: With over 200 LPN jobs and steady growth, finding and keeping a job is straightforward.	Car-Dependent: You will need a reliable car. Public transit is minimal.
Short Commutes: Average commutes are 15-20 minutes, even during peak hours. More time for life outside work.	Lower Ceiling for Specialties: You may need to travel to Dallas for very niche training or rare specialty roles.
Strong Sense of Community: You’ll know your colleagues and neighbors. It’s easy to build a network.	Limited Diversity: While changing, the population is less diverse than larger Texas cities.
Work-Life Balance: Particularly in home health, school nursing, or day-shift clinic roles.	Weather: Hot, dry summers and occasional severe storms (tornadoes) are part of life.

Final Recommendation: Wichita Falls is an excellent choice for LPNs who are financially minded, value stability, and prioritize a lower-stress lifestyle. It’s ideal for those looking to buy a home, start a family, or simply enjoy a shorter commute and less financial pressure. If you’re a new grad looking for endless nightlife and the energy of a massive city, you may be better suited for Dallas or Austin. But for the majority of LPNs seeking a balanced, sustainable career in Texas, Wichita Falls offers a compelling and often overlooked opportunity.

FAQs

1. What is the main hospital in Wichita Falls, and is it a good place to work?
The primary hospital is United Regional Health Care System. It’s the largest employer in the area and offers a wide range of LPN roles, from med-surg to specialty units. It’s known for good benefits, tuition assistance, and a structured career ladder, making it a solid choice for both new and experienced LPNs.

2. How competitive is the job market for a new LPN graduate?
It’s competitive but very manageable. New grads should apply to long-term care facilities, home health, and school districts first, as these are often more willing to train new LPNs. Having a flexible schedule (open to nights/weekends) and a clean background check will make you a strong candidate. Networking with former instructors for local job leads is highly effective.

3. Is it common for LPNs in Wichita Falls to work multiple jobs?
It’s not uncommon, but not the norm. Many LPNs find a single full-time position with benefits sufficient due to the lower cost of living. However, some work part-time in a second setting (e.g., full-time at a hospital and prn at a nursing home) to boost income or gain diverse experience. The compact schedule of 12-hour shifts in hospitals makes this feasible.

4. What’s the best way to find housing as a new arrival?
Drive through neighborhoods like Burkburnett or the Sikes Senter area and look for “For Rent” signs, as many local landlords don’t list online. Facebook Marketplace and local real estate agencies like Century 21 or Keller Williams have rental listings. Be prepared with proof of income and good references; the rental market moves quickly but isn’t as cutthroat as in bigger cities.

5. How do I prepare for the Texas licensing exam (NCLEX-PN)?
The process is the same as in most states. Use resources like UWorld or Kaplan, which are nationally recognized. The Texas Board of Nursing website is your best source for state-specific rules. If you’re an out-of-state applicant, focus on getting your transcripts and background check submitted promptly to avoid delays.