Registered Nurse in Lawrence, KS

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Registered Nurses considering a move to Lawrence, Kansas.

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The Salary Picture: Where Lawrence Stands

If you’re a Registered Nurse (RN) looking at Lawrence, you’re entering a market that’s stable, affordable, and offers a quality of life that’s hard to beat in the Midwest. Let’s start with the numbers, because they tell a clear story. The median salary for an RN in Lawrence is $83,746 per year, which translates to an hourly rate of $40.26. This is slightly below the national average of $86,070 per year, but it’s crucial to view this in context. The cost of living in Lawrence is significantly lower than the national average, meaning your paycheck stretches further here.

For a metro area of just 96,209 people, having 865 jobs for RNs is a strong indicator of a healthy job market. The 10-year job growth projection for the metro area sits at 6%, which, while not explosive, signals consistent demand. The healthcare sector in Lawrence is anchored by two major hospital systems, creating a foundation that supports long-term career stability.

To give you a clearer picture of earning potential, here’s a breakdown of salary by experience level. Note that these are generalized estimates based on the metro median and regional trends; individual employers may vary.

Experience Level	Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary (Lawrence)	Estimated Hourly Rate
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$68,000 - $75,000	$32.69 - $36.06
Mid-Career	3-9 years	$80,000 - $92,000	$38.46 - $44.23
Senior	10-19 years	$90,000 - $105,000	$43.27 - $50.48
Expert/Managerial	20+ years	$100,000 - $115,000+	$48.08 - $55.29+

Insider Tip: While the median salary is $83,746, many RNs in the area, especially those in specialty units or with night/weekend differentials, can push their total compensation well above this number. Shift differentials of $3-$5/hour are common.

How Lawrence Compares to Other KS Cities:

• Topeka (State Capital): Similar cost of living, salaries are comparable (median ~$82,000). More state government jobs but also a larger, more diverse metro.
• Wichita (State's Largest City): Larger, more industrial market. Salaries can be slightly higher (median ~$85,000), but housing costs are also marginally higher. More hospital system competition.
• Kansas City Metro (in KS): Salaries are significantly higher (median ~$90,000+), but so is the cost of living, especially in suburbs like Olathe and Overland Park. The commute from Lawrence to KC is a real consideration.
• Manhattan (Home of K-State): Similar mid-sized college town vibe. Salaries are very close to Lawrence, often within $1,000-$2,000 of each other. The market is more dominated by one major hospital system (Ascension Via Christi).

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Living on a $83,746 salary in Lawrence is very manageable. Let’s break down a monthly budget to see what your take-home pay looks like. We’ll assume you’re a single filer with no dependents, using standard federal and state deductions (Federal, FICA, Kansas state tax). This is an estimate; your actual take-home will vary.

• Gross Monthly Income: $83,746 / 12 = $6,978.83
• Estimated Deductions (Taxes, Insurance, 401k): ~28% = $1,954.07
• Estimated Net Monthly Income (Take-Home): $5,024.76

Now, let’s factor in the average 1BR rent of $869/month. That’s a remarkably low percentage of your income—only about 17%.

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	% of Net Income
Housing (1BR Rent)	$869	17.3%
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water, Internet)	$200	4.0%
Groceries	$400	8.0%
Transportation (Gas, Insurance, Car)	$350	7.0%
Health Insurance (Post-Deductible)	$150	3.0%
Student Loans / Other Debt	$300	6.0%
Savings & Retirement (e.g., 10%)	$500	10.0%
Discretionary (Entertainment, Dining, Shopping)	$1,255.76	25.0%
TOTAL	$5,024.76	100%

As you can see, after covering all essential living expenses and putting a healthy amount into savings, you still have over $1,200 for discretionary spending. This is the luxury of Lawrence’s affordability.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. With a median home price in Lawrence around $275,000 (as of 2023 trends), a 20% down payment is $55,000. A nurse earning the median salary could save a significant portion of that within a few years, especially if they have a partner or dual income. The monthly mortgage payment, taxes, and insurance would likely be between $1,400 and $1,600, which is still reasonable at this salary level. Renting for the first year is a smart move to get settled, but purchasing a home is a very attainable goal.

Where the Jobs Are: Lawrence's Major Employers

The healthcare ecosystem in Lawrence is robust and dominated by two key players, with a few other important employers.

1. LMH Health (Lawrence Memorial Hospital): The city’s primary hospital, now part of a system but still deeply community-focused. It’s a Level III Trauma Center and offers a wide range of services. Hiring Trend: They are consistently hiring for Med-Surg, ICU, ER, and Labor & Delivery. Their recent expansion and focus on specialty care (like their cancer center) have created new roles. Insider Tip: LMH is known for a strong RN residency program, making it an excellent landing spot for new grads.

2. AdventHealth Shawnee Mission (formerly Providence): A major regional hospital network with a significant presence in Lawrence (the AdventHealth Shawnee Mission Medical Center is in nearby Merriam, but they have numerous outpatient clinics and specialty offices in Lawrence). Hiring Trend: They are aggressive in expanding primary and specialty care clinics. This means steady demand for RNs in outpatient settings, case management, and procedural areas. Their pay scale can be slightly higher due to the larger network.

3. The University of Kansas Health System (KU Med): While the main campus is in Kansas City, Kansas, KU Med has a strong presence in Lawrence through its partnership with LMH Health and its own extensive outpatient network. Hiring Trend: High demand for RNs in academic medicine, research nursing, and specialty outpatient clinics. KU Med offers tuition reimbursement and strong professional development opportunities, ideal for career-focused nurses.

4. Lawrence Douglas County Public Health: The local public health department. Hiring Trend: Stable, government-based roles. Opportunities include community health, immunization clinics, and school health programs. Less acute care, more community focus, and often a better work-life balance (M-F schedule).

5. Sunflower Senior Care & Other SNFs: Lawrence has several skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and long-term care centers. Hiring Trend: Consistent demand, especially for night and weekend shifts. This is a great option for newer nurses looking for experience or for those who prefer a different pace from hospital work.

6. Primary Care & Specialty Clinics: With a growing population and the presence of KU, there are numerous private practices (from family medicine to orthopedics, oncology, etc.). Hiring Trend: High demand for outpatient RNs for care coordination, patient education, and procedural assistance. These roles often offer a predictable Monday-Friday schedule, a huge perk for many.

Getting Licensed in KS

If you’re moving from another state, the Kansas State Board of Nursing will require you to apply for licensure by endorsement.

Requirements:

1. Active RN License: You must hold a current, unencumbered license in your home state.
2. Education: Proof of graduation from an accredited nursing program.
3. Fingerprints: A criminal background check is required, which involves submitting fingerprints.
4. Application & Fees: Complete the online application through the Kansas State Board of Nursing website and pay the fee ($100 for licensure by endorsement).

Timeline & Cost:

• Timeline: The process can take 4-8 weeks from the time you submit a complete application. Start this process before you move, but you can interview and receive job offers with a pending Kansas license.
• Cost: Expect to pay around $150-$200 total (application fee, fingerprinting fee, and any notary costs).
• Compact State: Kansas is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). If you hold a "multi-state" license from another NLC state (like Missouri, Oklahoma, Iowa, Nebraska), you can legally practice in Kansas without obtaining a separate KS license. This is a huge advantage for nurses living in the KC metro or along the borders. Always verify your license type with your original state board.

Best Neighborhoods for Registered Nurses

Lawrence is divided by the Kansas River, with distinct vibes on the north and south sides. Proximity to hospitals is a key factor.

1. Downtown / Historic East Side: Vibe: Walkable, vibrant, with cafes, boutiques, and older, charming homes (many rentals). Commute: Excellent to LMH Health (5-10 mins). Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,200 for a 1BR apartment or shared house. Best For: Social butterflies, those who want to be in the heart of the city without a car.

2. Central / South Lawrence (near KU campus): Vibe: Mix of student housing, single-family homes, and apartment complexes. Quiet but still close to amenities. Commute: Easy 10-15 min drive to both LMH and KU Med clinics. Rent Estimate: $800 - $1,000 for a 1BR. Best For: Those who want a balanced lifestyle, easy access to campus events, and a shorter commute.

3. North Lawrence: Vibe: More residential, family-oriented, with larger lots and more affordable single-family homes. Commute: 10-15 mins to LMH, 20 mins to most clinics. Rent Estimate: $750 - $950 for a 1BR or small house. Best For: Families, those seeking more space and a quieter neighborhood feel.

4. East Lawrence: Vibe: Historic, eclectic, and rapidly gentrifying. Strong community feel. Commute: 5-10 mins to LMH, 15 mins to other clinics. Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,100 for a 1BR. Best For: Young professionals, artists, and those who value character and walkability.

5. West Lawrence (near the KU Golf Course): Vibe: Suburban, modern apartment complexes, and newer homes. Very quiet and clean. Commute: 15-20 mins to hospitals, but easy highway access. Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,200 for a 1BR. Best For: Those who prefer a suburban, low-maintenance lifestyle with easy interstate access for weekend trips.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Lawrence offers solid advancement paths without the cutthroat competition of a mega-metro.

• Specialty Premiums: While the base median is $83,746, specializing can boost earnings. ICU, ER, and L&D nurses often command differentials adding $5,000-$10,000 to their annual base. OR/Surgical nurses are also in high demand.
• Advancement Paths: The most common paths are:
  1. Clinical Ladder: Moving from staff nurse to Charge Nurse or Clinical Nurse Specialist within a hospital system.
  2. Education: Becoming a Nurse Educator or pursuing a Master’s (MSN) to become a Nurse Practitioner (NP). KU’s School of Nursing in Kansas City is a top-tier option, and many employers offer tuition assistance.
  3. Management: Moving into unit management or hospital administration.
  4. Outpatient/Case Management: Shifting to a M-F schedule with potentially higher pay in specialized roles (e.g., oncology navigator, cardiac rehab).
• 10-Year Outlook: With a 6% job growth rate and an aging population, demand for RNs will remain strong. The trend is toward more outpatient and preventive care, so skills in patient education and chronic disease management will be highly valuable. Lawrence’s stability, combined with its proximity to the growing Kansas City metro, means nurses with experience will have options to stay or commute for higher-paying roles.

The Verdict: Is Lawrence Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: Your salary goes much further than in most cities.	Limited Nightlife/Big City Amenities: If you crave major concerts, pro sports, or endless dining, you’ll drive to KC.
Strong, Stable Job Market: Two major health systems provide a secure foundation.	Lower Ceiling on High-End Salaries: The median of $83,746 is good, but you won’t find the $120k+ salaries common in coastal cities.
College Town Energy: KU brings culture, sports, and a youthful vibe.	Weather: Kansas winters can be cold and windy; summers are hot and humid.
Easy Commute & Traffic: You can get anywhere in town in 15-20 minutes.	Limited Public Transit: A car is essentially a necessity.
Sense of Community: It’s a friendly, integrated city where people know their neighbors.	Political Environment: Kansas is a deeply conservative state, which may not align with everyone’s personal values.

Final Recommendation: Lawrence is an excellent choice for RNs who prioritize work-life balance, affordability, and a strong sense of community over chasing the absolute highest salary. It’s perfect for new grads looking for a supportive environment, mid-career nurses wanting to buy a home without financial stress, and experienced nurses seeking a change of pace. If you’re an adventure-seeker who needs big-city excitement daily, you might find it limiting. But for most, Lawrence offers a fulfilling career and a high quality of life.

FAQs

Q: What’s the job market like for new graduate RNs in Lawrence?
A: It’s competitive but accessible. Both LMH Health and AdventHealth have robust nurse residency programs designed for new grads. Having your Kansas license or compact license in hand significantly improves your chances. Networking with nurses already in the area (via LinkedIn or KU alumni networks) is highly effective.

Q: Is it safe to live in Lawrence?
A: Like any city, it has areas with more and less crime. Generally, Lawrence is considered a safe community. The downtown and East Lawrence areas have some property crime (like any urban area), but violent crime is low. Researching specific neighborhoods is recommended, but most are safe for single professionals.

Q: How does the cost of living in Lawrence compare to Kansas City?
A: Lawrence is significantly cheaper. While salaries are similar, housing in Kansas City suburbs can be 30-50% higher. Daily expenses like groceries and services are also a bit more expensive in the KC metro. You get more square footage and lower rent/mortgage payments in Lawrence.

Q: Do I need to have a job before moving, or can I move and then look?
A: While you can move and look, having a job offer first is strongly advised, especially if you need to relocate from out of state. The market is stable, but securing a position helps with the transition and financial planning. Start applying 2-3 months before your intended move date.

Q: What’s the vibe for nurses at the hospitals?
A: The general consensus is that both LMH Health and KU Med have a supportive, teamwork-oriented culture. LMH, as the community hospital, is often described as having a family-like atmosphere. The larger KU Med system offers more resources and opportunities for research and specialization. The "vibe" can vary by unit, so it's worth asking about team dynamics during interviews.