Transform Your Nursing Career in New Hampshire
New Hampshire's healthcare system needs qualified Registered Nurses now more than ever. Whether you're an experienced LPN or just starting to consider advancing your career, transitioning from LPN to RN opens up significantly higher salaries, expanded career opportunities, and greater professional autonomy.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about LPN to RN bridge programs in New Hampshire, including accredited schools, salary expectations, Board of Nursing requirements, and career advancement opportunities. New Hampshire has among the highest RN salaries in the U.S., with proximity to Massachusetts (Boston market) driving wages upward. eNLC membership provides flexibility. NH has no state income tax. High cost of living, especially near seacoast and southern border.
New Hampshire LPN to RN Salary Increase
Per Year
Per Year
New Hampshire participates in the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), which means your New Hampshire RN license allows you to practice in 40+ other compact states without obtaining additional licenses. This opens up travel nursing opportunities, telehealth positions, and flexibility to work across state lines—a significant career advantage.
1. Top LPN to RN Bridge Programs in New Hampshire (2026)
New Hampshire offers several accredited LPN to RN bridge programs. Here are the top options for 2026:
Location: Claremont, NH
Program Type: Associate Degree Nursing (LPN advanced standing)
Duration: 2 years (standard); accelerated options for LPNs
Format: In-person with clinical rotations
Estimated Tuition: $9,000-$14,000 (NH residents)
Accreditation: ACEN accredited
Key Features:
- LPN advanced standing and credit transfer opportunities
- ACEN accreditation ensures quality standards
- Clinical partnerships with Dartmouth-Hitchcock and regional hospitals
- Affordable New Hampshire Community College System tuition
- Evening and weekend options for working nurses
- High NCLEX-RN pass rates
- Financial aid and payment plans available
Location: Portsmouth, NH
Program Type: Associate of Science in Nursing
Duration: Varies; LPN bridge options available
Format: In-person with clinical experiences
Estimated Tuition: $8,500-$13,500 (NH residents)
Accreditation: Part of NH Community College System; approved by NH Board of Nursing
Key Features:
- LPN to RN pathway with advanced placement
- Clinical sites include Portsmouth Regional Hospital, Wentworth-Douglass
- Seacoast region location
- Affordable community college tuition
- Small class sizes and personalized attention
- Financial aid available
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Location: Manchester, NH
Program Type: Associate Degree Nursing
Duration: 2 years; LPN advanced standing considered
Format: In-person with clinical rotations in greater Manchester
Estimated Tuition: $9,000-$14,000 (NH residents)
Accreditation: ACEN accredited
Key Features:
- LPN credit for prior nursing education
- Clinical experiences at Catholic Medical Center, Elliot Hospital
- Manchester is NH's largest city with extensive healthcare opportunities
- Flexible scheduling options
- Strong job placement rates in NH
- Financial aid and scholarships available
2. LPN vs RN Salary in New Hampshire: Financial Benefits
Current Salary Data (2026)
| Position | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $74,000 | $35.58 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | $97,000 | $46.63 |
| Salary Difference | +$23,000 | +$11.05 |
Regional Salary Variations Across New Hampshire
| Location/Region | RN Average Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Manchester/Nashua (Southern NH) | $95,000 - $105,000 | Largest metro area; close to Boston market |
| Portsmouth/Seacoast | $95,000 - $105,000 | High cost of living; proximity to Boston |
| Lebanon/Dartmouth Area | $90,000 - $100,000 | Dartmouth-Hitchcock is major academic center |
| Concord/Central NH | $88,000 - $98,000 | State capital; moderate cost of living |
| Rural NH | $85,000 - $100,000 | Critical access hospitals; some shortage incentives |
Top Employers for RNs in New Hampshire (2026)
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (Lebanon) - Academic medical center
- Catholic Medical Center (Manchester)
- Elliot Hospital (Manchester)
- Portsmouth Regional Hospital (Portsmouth)
- Wentworth-Douglass Hospital (Dover)
- Concord Hospital (Concord)
- Southern NH Medical Center (Nashua)
- St. Joseph Hospital (Nashua)
- VA Manchester Healthcare System
- Speare Memorial Hospital and other rural critical access hospitals
3. New Hampshire Board of Nursing & RN Licensure Requirements
Agency: New Hampshire Board of Nursing
Address: 121 South Fruit Street, Concord, NH 03301
Phone: (603) 271-2152
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.oplc.nh.gov/new-hampshire-board-nursing
Steps to Obtain Your New Hampshire RN License
- 1Graduate from Accredited RN Program
- 2Submit RN License Application
- 3Complete Criminal Background Check
- 4Register for NCLEX-RN Exam
- 5Pass NCLEX-RN
- 6Receive Your New Hampshire RN License
4. Financial Aid & Scholarships in New Hampshire
Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA)
- Pell Grants: Up to $7,395/year (2026-27)
- Federal Direct Loans: $5,500-$12,500/year
- Apply: FAFSA.gov
New Hampshire-Specific Scholarships
Scholarships for NH nursing students through professional nursing organization
Various scholarships for students attending NH community colleges, including nursing programs
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
An LPN to ADN bridge program typically takes 12-18 months full-time or 18-24 months part-time. An LPN to BSN program takes 2-3 years depending on transfer credits and enrollment status.
The average RN salary in New Hampshire is approximately $97,000 per year, compared to $74,000 for LPNs—a $23,000 annual increase (31% raise).
Yes! New Hampshire is a member of the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact. Your New Hampshire RN license allows you to practice in 40+ other compact states without obtaining additional licenses.
Ready to Start Your LPN to RN Journey in New Hampshire?
Don't wait to advance your nursing career and increase your earning potential by $23,000+ per year. New Hampshire's healthcare system needs qualified RNs.
Explore New Hampshire LPN to RN ProgramsQuestions? Contact the New Hampshire Board of Nursing at (603) 271-2152