Licensed Practical Nurse Salaries in Missouri — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026How much does a licensed practical nurse make in Missouri? The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median salary of $59,030/yr ($28.38/hr), with around 14,320 people working in this field statewide.
Licensed Practical Nurse salaries in Missouri are below the national average by approximately $4,457. Missouri has a state income tax rate of up to 4.8%.
Missouri's diverse economy underpins consistent demand for licensed practical nurses across both urban and rural areas.
Missouri Licensed Practical Nurse Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in Missouri after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. Missouri has a state income tax rate of up to 4.8%.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. Missouri has a state income tax rate of up to 4.8%. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — Missouri Licensed Practical Nurse Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the Missouri median of $59,030.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salary by Experience — Missouri
Licensed Practical Nurse Salary Trend in Missouri — 2021 to 2026
5-Year Datalicensed practical nurses pay in Missouri has risen approximately 13.9% since 2021, mirroring national trends across the licensed practical nurse workforce. The growth reflects broader workforce and economic conditions in Missouri's healthcare and long-term care.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salary by City — Missouri
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas City | $65,500 | $31.49 | +11.0% | 5,012 |
| Saint Louis | $62,550 | $30.07 | +6.0% | 4,009 |
| Springfield | $60,800 | $29.23 | +3.0% | 2,577 |
| Columbia | $56,650 | $27.24 | -4.0% | 1,288 |
| Independence | $53,700 | $25.82 | -9.0% | 859 |
| Jefferson City | $51,350 | $24.69 | -13.0% | 572 |
Tip: Kansas City offers the highest licensed practical nurse salaries in Missouri at $65,500/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
Missouri vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, Missouri sits in the mid-range for licensed practical nurses.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. Missouri has a state income tax rate of up to 4.8%.
Licensed Practical Nurse Job Outlook in Missouri
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for licensed practical nurses in Missouri is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the Missouri job market. Missouri's diverse economy underpins consistent demand for licensed practical nurses across both urban and rural areas.
How to Earn More as a Licensed Practical Nurse in Missouri
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a licensed practical nurse in Missouri typically adds $48,400 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the State Board of Nursing can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. Kansas City pays licensed practical nurses $65,500/yr — +11.0% above the Missouri average. Simply relocating within Missouri can meaningfully increase your income without changing careers.
3. Specialise in high-demand areas. Licensed Practical Nurses who specialise in healthcare and long-term care typically command premium rates in Missouri. Identifying growing niches within your field is one of the fastest paths to higher pay.
4. Consider neighbouring states. Iowa pays licensed practical nurses $59,460/yr — 0.7% vs Missouri.
Find Licensed Practical Nurse Jobs in Missouri
Live ListingsSearch current licensed practical nurse job vacancies in Missouri:
🔍 Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Missouri — Indeed→ 🔍 Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Missouri — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Licensed Practical Nurse jobs — Kansas City, MO→