Delaware Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary
Explore the complete guide to LPN compensation. Review mean pay, percentiles, local hospital job demand, and specific Board of Nursing (BON) requirements.
State Mean
$63,190
Annual Salary
State Hourly
$30.52
Per hour
COL Adjusted Pay
$61,231
True Purchasing Power
vs National
+1%
Above US Mean
Our nursing salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program.
Data
reviewed by 
sirI, MSN, APRN, NP
on March 2026
for accuracy.
Salary Range & Percentiles
Salaries for Licensed Practical Nurses in Delaware range from $53,080 (entry-level) to $72,460 (highly experienced) annually.
LPN Salary by Metro Area in Delaware
Licensed Practical Nurse salaries vary significantly across metro areas in Delaware. Click any column header to sort, matching the Specialty rankings table behavior.
| Metro Area | Annual | Hourly | vs State Mean |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dover | $61,780 | $28.84 | -2.2% |
Top Hospitals Hiring LPNs in Delaware
Delaware is home to leading healthcare facilities. Based on CMS quality ratings, the highest-rated hospitals where LPNs are in demand include:
View all open LPN jobs in DelawareDelaware BON & Education Requirements
To practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse and earn the salaries listed above, the Delaware Board of Nursing requires strict licensure and certification steps.
-
1
Active RN License: You must hold an active, unencumbered RN license in the state of Delaware.
-
2
Graduate Education: Completion of an accredited MSN or DNP program with a specific Licensed Practical Nurse track. Top Programs: University of Delaware and Delaware State University
-
3
National Certification: Pass the relevant national certification exam provided by a recognized credentialing body (e.g., ANCC, AACN, NCC).
-
4
Advanced Practice Licensure: Apply for a Nurse Practitioner license or Furnishing Number through the state BON to prescribe medications. Apply for APN Licensure
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Licensed Practical Nurse make in Delaware?
As of 2023, the median Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Delaware is $63,190 per year or $30.52 per hour. This is 1% above the national median.
What is the starting salary for a new grad LPN in Delaware?
Entry-level Licensed Practical Nurses in Delaware typically start around the 10th percentile, earning $53,080. With 5-10 years of experience, LPNs can expect to reach the median salary of $63,190 or higher.
Is Delaware a good state for LPN salaries when considering the cost of living?
Delaware has a cost of living index of 1.03. When adjusting the raw median salary of $63,190 for local expenses, the true purchasing power is approximately $61,231. Keep in mind that housing and living costs may offset the premium pay.
How much does an LPN make an hour in Delaware?
The median hourly wage for an LPN in Delaware is $30.52. Those in the top 90th percentile, often working in specialized or high-acuity roles, can make upwards of $34.84 per hour.
Which hospitals hire the most LPNs in Delaware?
Salaries and demand vary by facility, but large medical centers and specialty units generally offer the highest compensation. In Delaware, top employers hiring LPNs include Tidalhealth Nanticoke, INC., Christiana Hospital, Wilmington VA Medical Center, St Francis Hospital.
What are the requirements to become an LPN in Delaware?
To practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse in Delaware, you must hold an active RN license, graduate from an accredited program, pass the relevant national certification exam, and apply for advanced practice licensure through the Delaware Board of Nursing.
Are there LPN programs in Delaware?
Yes, aspiring Licensed Practical Nurses can attend local programs such as University of Delaware and Delaware State University. Alternatively, many Delaware nurses opt for accredited online programs that arrange clinical placements at local hospitals.
Is there a high demand for Licensed Practical Nurses in Delaware?
Yes, the demand for Licensed Practical Nurses remains strong in Delaware, particularly in metro areas supporting large healthcare systems. Job growth is projected to remain steady as facilities seek specialized providers to manage complex patient care.