LPN / LVN jobs in California

LPN / LVN pay in California

The median wage for LPN / LVN jobs in California is $38.34 per hour ($79,747 a year full-time). Jobs on this page pay a median of $38.41/hour, from $31.50 to $87.67. Travel and contract jobs often pay more than staff positions because they include housing and meal stipends.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025. Pay in listings is converted to an hourly rate assuming 36–40 hours a week.

License and requirements

You need an active nursing license that is valid in California. California is not a fully implemented Nurse Licensure Compact state, so a multistate (compact) license is not enough — you need a California license or a temporary permit. Agencies usually help with the application and fees. Check the latest status at nursecompact.com before you accept an offer.

Agencies hiring for LPN / LVN jobs in California

Cities with the most LPN / LVN jobs

Los Angeles (18), Beverly Hills (10), Beverly Hils (3), Lake Isabella (2), Lakeport (2), Pleasanton (2), Alturas (1), Bakersfield (1), Herlong (1), South Lake Tahoe (1), Torrance (1), Imperial (1)

FAQ

How much does a LPN / LVN make in California?

The median wage for LPN / LVN jobs in California is $38.34 per hour (about $79,747 a year), according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025. LPN / LVN jobs listed on ReferHire pay a median of $38.41 per hour.

How many LPN / LVN jobs are open in California?

44 LPN / LVN jobs from 6 staffing agencies are open on ReferHire right now.

What license do I need?

You need an active nursing license that is valid in California. California is not a fully implemented Nurse Licensure Compact state, so a multistate (compact) license is not enough — you need a California license or a temporary permit. Agencies usually help with the application and fees. Check the latest status at nursecompact.com before you accept an offer.