💰 Rhode Island LPN vs RN Salary Comparison
Transitioning from LPN to RN in Rhode Island offers substantial salary increases and expanded career opportunities — among the highest in New England. Here's what you can expect to earn:
LPN Average Salary
$65,120
$31.31/hour
Entry level: $58K–$62K
Experienced: $65K–$73K
RN Average Salary
$95,070
$45.71/hour
Entry level: $78K–$85K
Experienced: $95K–$108K
💵 Annual Salary Increase: $29,950+
That's an extra $2,495 per month — or a 46% pay raise by becoming an RN. Over a 30-year career, this translates to approximately $898,500 in additional earnings.
🏙️ Rhode Island RN Salary by Region & City
| City/Region |
Average RN Salary |
Hourly Rate |
Notes |
| Providence |
$97,400 |
$46.83 |
State capital; Rhode Island Hospital; Brown University medical center |
| Warwick |
$94,200 |
$45.29 |
Kent Hospital; suburban location |
| Cranston |
$93,800 |
$45.10 |
Close proximity to Providence; strong demand |
| Pawtucket |
$92,600 |
$44.52 |
Memorial Hospital; urban community health |
| Newport |
$96,500 |
$46.39 |
Coastal location; Newport Hospital; high cost of living |
| Woonsocket |
$91,200 |
$43.85 |
Landmark Medical Center; northern RI |
| South County (Wakefield/Narragansett) |
$95,800 |
$46.06 |
South County Hospital; coastal communities |
🎯 Key Salary Insights
- Highest-Paying Cities: Providence ($97.4K) and Newport ($96.5K) offer top RN salaries
- New England Premium: RI RN salaries are ~20% higher than the national average
- Specialty Premiums: ICU, OR, and ER nurses can earn $10K–$15K more annually
- eNLC Benefits: Rhode Island participates in the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing multi-state practice
- Metro Boston Access: RI nurses can easily commute to higher-paying MA hospitals (but RI has lower income tax)
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🎓 Top 5 Accredited Rhode Island LPN to RN Bridge Programs
Rhode Island offers several accredited LPN-to-RN pathways, primarily through the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) and neighboring programs in Massachusetts. All programs are approved by the Rhode Island Board of Nursing.
1. Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) — LPN to RN Option
Location: Warwick (Knight Campus) and Lincoln (Flanagan Campus)
Program Length: 3–4 semesters (evenings/weekends available)
Degree: Associate in Science in Nursing (ASN)
Accreditation: ACEN-accredited; RI Board of Nursing approved
Highlights: Rhode Island's primary LPN-to-RN pathway; flexible evening and weekend options for working LPNs; advanced standing granted for LPN experience; clinical partnerships with Rhode Island Hospital, Kent Hospital, and South County Hospital; strong NCLEX pass rates (85%+); affordable in-state tuition.
Website: www.ccri.edu/nursing/lpn-to-rn
2. Bristol Community College (MA) — LPN to RN Bridge
Location: Fall River, MA (15 min from Providence, RI)
Program Length: 3 semesters (12–15 months)
Degree: Associate in Science in Nursing (ASN)
Accreditation: ACEN-accredited; MA Board of Nursing approved (license transfers to RI via eNLC)
Highlights: Convenient for southern RI residents; LPN-to-RN bridge applicants receive advanced placement; hybrid delivery with day program options; strong clinical partnerships in southeastern MA and RI; affordable MA community college tuition.
Website: catalog.bristolcc.edu/nursing
3. Rhode Island College — RN-BSN (Post-LPN/ASN Pathway)
Location: Providence, RI (online/hybrid options)
Program Length: 4 semesters (part-time, 18–24 months)
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Accreditation: CCNE-accredited; RI Board approved
Highlights: For LPNs who complete ADN first, this RN-to-BSN pathway offers affordable BSN completion; flexible online courses with some in-person clinical requirements; articulation agreements with CCRI; prepares for graduate-level nursing (MSN/DNP).
Website: www.ric.edu/school-of-nursing
4. University of Rhode Island (URI) — RN-to-BSN Online
Location: Kingston, RI (online program)
Program Length: 1–2 years (part-time online)
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Accreditation: CCNE-accredited; RI Board approved
Highlights: Prestigious URI nursing program for ADN-prepared RNs; entirely online format allows working nurses to complete BSN; strong reputation in New England; pathways to URI MSN and DNP programs; higher tuition than CCRI/RIC but excellent career outcomes.
Website: web.uri.edu/nursing/rn-to-bsn
5. Galen College of Nursing — LPN/LVN to ADN Bridge (Online)
Location: Online (serves RI residents)
Program Length: 18 months (accelerated online)
Degree: Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
Accreditation: ACEN-accredited; accepts RI students
Highlights: Fully online LPN-to-RN bridge with clinical placements arranged near your home; 18-month accelerated track; designed for working LPNs; NCLEX-RN prep integrated; flexible start dates; private college tuition (~$18K–$25K).
Website: galencollege.edu/lpn-lvn-adn-bridge
🔍 How to Choose the Right Program
- Accreditation: Ensure ACEN or CCNE accreditation and RI Board of Nursing approval
- Schedule Flexibility: CCRI offers evening/weekend options; online programs (Galen, URI RN-to-BSN) provide maximum flexibility
- Program Length: Bridge programs range from 12 months (accelerated) to 2 years (part-time)
- Cost: CCRI is most affordable (~$8K–$12K total); URI/RIC ~$15K–$20K; private colleges ~$18K–$25K
- Location: CCRI has two campuses (Warwick, Lincoln); Bristol CC is convenient for southern RI residents
- BSN Option: Consider RIC or URI RN-to-BSN after ADN for career advancement
📋 Admission Requirements & Application Process
Rhode Island LPN-to-RN bridge programs have competitive admission processes. Here's what you need to prepare:
✅ General Prerequisites (CCRI LPN-to-RN Option)
- Current RI LPN License: Active, unencumbered license in good standing (or eNLC multi-state license)
- High School Diploma or GED
- Prerequisite Courses: Anatomy & Physiology I & II (with lab), Microbiology, English Composition, College Math or Statistics, Psychology, Human Growth & Development, Nutrition
- Minimum GPA: 2.5–3.0 cumulative GPA; 2.75+ strongly preferred for competitive admission
- TEAS Exam: ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) — typically 65–70% minimum score; CCRI uses TEAS for admission ranking
- Background Check & Drug Screening: Required for all clinical placements
- Current BLS/CPR Certification: American Heart Association Healthcare Provider
- Immunizations: MMR, Tdap, Hepatitis B, varicella, annual flu shot, COVID-19, TB screening
- Work Experience: Minimum 1 year of LPN clinical experience preferred (not always required)
📝 Application Timeline (Fall 2026 Entry)
- August–October 2025: Research programs; complete prerequisite courses; attend CCRI info sessions
- November 2025: Register and take TEAS exam; request official transcripts
- December 1–January 15, 2026: Submit applications (CCRI priority deadline typically January 15)
- February 2026: Interviews and supplemental document submission
- March 2026: Acceptance notifications released
- April–July 2026: Orientation, clinical clearance, financial aid processing
- Late August/Early September 2026: Classes begin
💡 Application Tips
- Apply Early: CCRI LPN-to-RN program is highly competitive — submit by early January
- Strong TEAS Score: Aim for 75%+ for best chances; take a prep course if needed
- Complete Prerequisites First: Admissions committees heavily favor applicants with all prereqs finished
- Attend Info Sessions: CCRI offers LPN-to-RN information sessions — attend to learn application tips
- Highlight Clinical Experience: Emphasize your LPN work experience and patient care skills in your essay
- Request Transcripts Early: Allow 2–3 weeks for transcript processing from previous schools
💵 Financial Aid, Scholarships & Tuition Costs
Rhode Island LPN-to-RN bridge programs are relatively affordable, especially at CCRI. Here's what you can expect and how to pay for it:
💰 Tuition Costs (2026 Estimates)
| School Type |
Total Program Cost |
Cost per Credit |
Notes |
| CCRI (Community College) |
$8,000–$12,000 |
$190–$230 (in-state) |
Most affordable option for RI residents |
| Public Universities (RIC, URI) |
$15,000–$22,000 |
$350–$475 (in-state) |
RN-to-BSN programs after ADN completion |
| Private/Online Colleges |
$18,000–$28,000 |
$400–$550 |
Galen College, online accelerated programs |
🎓 Scholarships & Financial Aid Options
Rhode Island-Specific Scholarships
- RI Foundation Nursing Scholarships: Multiple nursing scholarships ranging from $1,000–$5,000/year for RI residents pursuing nursing degrees — Apply here
- Rhode Island State Grant: Need-based aid up to $1,200/year for RI residents attending RI colleges
- RI Nursing Education Loan Forgiveness Program: Up to $20,000 in loan forgiveness for nurses working in critical shortage facilities in RI
- Rhode Island Hospital Scholarship: Scholarships for students at CCRI and RIC with service commitment to RI Hospital system
National Nursing Scholarships
- NURSE Corps Scholarship: Full tuition + stipend in exchange for 2 years of service in critical shortage facilities — HRSA NURSE Corps
- National Health Service Corps (NHSC): Scholarships for rural/underserved practice commitments
- Tylenol Future Care Scholarship: $5,000–$10,000 for nursing students
- Nurses Make a Difference Scholarship: Johnson & Johnson scholarship for diverse nursing students
Employer Tuition Assistance
Many Rhode Island hospitals offer tuition reimbursement for LPNs pursuing RN degrees:
- Rhode Island Hospital (Lifespan): Up to $5,000/year tuition assistance for employees
- Kent Hospital: Tuition reimbursement programs for LPN-to-RN students
- South County Hospital: Financial support for bridge program students with service commitment
- Miriam Hospital: Tuition assistance for staff pursuing RN licensure
Federal Student Aid
- FAFSA: Apply at studentaid.gov — Pell Grants up to $7,395/year
- Federal Stafford Loans: Low-interest loans for students
- Federal Work-Study: Part-time campus jobs to help pay tuition
💡 Financial Aid Tips
- File FAFSA Early: Priority deadline is February 1 for maximum RI state grant eligibility
- Check Employer Benefits First: Many RI hospitals offer tuition assistance — ask your HR department
- Apply for Multiple Scholarships: RI Foundation offers 10+ nursing scholarships — apply for all you qualify for
- Consider Service Commitments: NURSE Corps and RI loan forgiveness programs offer substantial aid for service commitments
- Budget for Extras: Include costs for books ($800–$1,200), NCLEX prep ($300–$500), uniforms, parking, and supplies
By submitting, you agree to receive information from schools that match your interests.
📈 Rhode Island RN Job Market & Career Outlook
Rhode Island has a strong demand for registered nurses, driven by an aging population, medical tourism (Boston overflow), and a growing healthcare sector. Job prospects for new RN graduates are excellent.
+15%
RN Job Growth (2024–2034)
1,200+
Annual RN Job Openings in RI
13,500+
Currently Licensed RNs in RI
97%
Employment Rate for RN Grads
🏥 Top Employers for RNs in Rhode Island
| Employer |
Location |
RN Starting Salary |
Specialty Focus |
| Rhode Island Hospital (Lifespan) |
Providence |
$78,000–$88,000 |
Level I Trauma Center; Brown University teaching hospital; all specialties |
| Miriam Hospital (Lifespan) |
Providence |
$76,000–$86,000 |
Women's health, cardiology, oncology |
| Kent Hospital (Care New England) |
Warwick |
$74,000–$84,000 |
Regional medical center; emergency, cardiac, surgical care |
| Women & Infants Hospital (Care New England) |
Providence |
$77,000–$87,000 |
Nation's leading specialty hospital for women; maternity, NICU |
| Newport Hospital (Lifespan) |
Newport |
$76,000–$86,000 |
Coastal community hospital; medical, surgical, emergency |
| South County Hospital |
Wakefield |
$75,000–$85,000 |
South County regional leader; family-centered care |
| VA Providence Healthcare System |
Providence |
$72,000–$82,000 |
Federal facility; excellent benefits; veteran care |
💼 Career Specialties & Advanced Roles
After gaining RN experience, Rhode Island nurses can pursue advanced roles and specializations:
- Critical Care (ICU): $95,000–$115,000 — high demand in Providence hospitals
- Emergency Department (ED): $92,000–$110,000 — Level I trauma centers need experienced RNs
- Operating Room (OR): $90,000–$108,000 — surgical centers across RI
- Labor & Delivery (L&D): $88,000–$105,000 — Women & Infants Hospital is premier destination
- Nurse Practitioner (NP): $105,000–$130,000 — requires MSN/DNP; high demand statewide
- Nurse Educator: $80,000–$95,000 — teach at CCRI, RIC, or URI nursing programs
- Travel Nursing: $90,000–$120,000 — short-term contracts across New England and U.S.
🎯 Why Rhode Island RNs Are In Demand
- Aging Population: RI has one of the oldest populations in the U.S., driving healthcare needs
- Medical Tourism: Boston hospitals overflow to RI; many MA residents seek care in RI
- Brown University Medical School: RI Hospital is a teaching hospital with high standards and opportunities
- eNLC Access: RI participates in eNLC — work in 40+ states with one license
- Geographic Advantage: Easy commute to MA hospitals (higher pay) while living in RI (lower income tax)
📜 Rhode Island RN Licensing Requirements
After completing your LPN-to-RN bridge program, you'll need to obtain RN licensure through the Rhode Island Board of Nursing.
✅ Steps to RN Licensure in Rhode Island
- Graduate from Accredited Program: Complete a RI Board-approved ADN or BSN program
- Apply for NCLEX-RN Authorization: Submit application through the RI Department of Health
- Submit Required Documents:
- Completed RN licensure application
- Official transcripts from nursing program
- Verification of LPN license (if transitioning)
- Criminal background check (state and FBI)
- Passport photo
- Pay Application Fees: $120 initial RN license fee + $55 background check
- Receive NCLEX Authorization to Test (ATT): Typically within 2–3 weeks of application approval
- Schedule & Take NCLEX-RN: Register through Pearson VUE — test in Providence or nearby MA locations
- Pass NCLEX-RN: Results typically available within 48 hours via "Quick Results"
- Receive RI RN License: License issued electronically within 1 week of passing NCLEX
🔄 Rhode Island eNLC Participation
✅ Rhode Island is an eNLC State
Rhode Island participates in the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), which allows RNs to practice in 40+ compact states with a single multi-state license.
Benefits of eNLC:
- Multi-State Practice: Work in any eNLC state without additional licenses
- Telehealth Opportunities: Provide virtual care to patients across state lines
- Travel Nursing: Easily pick up assignments in other compact states
- Border Flexibility: Work in neighboring MA or CT facilities (if they join eNLC) or other compact states
Note: To qualify for a compact license, you must declare RI as your primary state of residence.
📞 Contact Rhode Island Board of Nursing
🔄 RN License Renewal
- Renewal Cycle: Every 2 years (by your birth month)
- Continuing Education: 10 contact hours required per renewal cycle
- Renewal Fee: $120 every 2 years
- Online Renewal: Available through the RI Department of Health website 90 days before expiration
🌊 Why Become an RN in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island — the Ocean State — offers unique advantages for LPNs transitioning to RN roles, from coastal living to excellent salaries and strong healthcare systems.
#6
Highest RN Salaries (U.S.)
eNLC
Multi-State Licensure Access
15%
RN Job Growth (2024–2034)
400+ mi
Beautiful Coastline
✨ Top Reasons to Pursue RN Licensure in Rhode Island
1. High RN Salaries ($95K Average)
Rhode Island offers the 6th-highest RN salaries in the U.S. at $95,070/year — significantly above the national average. Even entry-level RNs start at $78K–$85K.
2. Coastal Living & Quality of Life
With 400+ miles of coastline, Rhode Island offers beautiful beaches (Newport, Narragansett), sailing, seafood, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. Enjoy ocean access within 30 minutes from anywhere in the state.
3. Small State, Big Opportunities
RI is the smallest U.S. state, making commutes short (20–30 minutes statewide). You're never far from work, beaches, or Boston.
4. Access to Boston Healthcare Market
Rhode Island is 45 minutes from Boston, allowing RI nurses to access higher-paying MA hospitals while benefiting from RI's lower income tax (3.75% vs. MA's 5%).
5. eNLC Multi-State Practice
As an eNLC state, Rhode Island RNs can work in 40+ compact states without additional licenses — ideal for travel nursing, telehealth, or relocating within the compact.
6. Brown University Medical Excellence
Rhode Island Hospital is affiliated with Brown University's Warren Alpert Medical School, offering RNs exposure to cutting-edge research, teaching opportunities, and specialty care.
🌟 Quality of Life Highlights
- Coastal Beauty: Newport mansions, Block Island, Narragansett beaches, ocean views
- Short Commutes: No place in RI is more than 45 minutes from any other place
- Four Seasons: Beautiful fall foliage, mild summers, winter snow (less than MA)
- Food & Culture: Providence is a culinary capital; WaterFire, Newport Jazz Festival, RISD Museum
- Family-Friendly: Excellent public schools in East Greenwich, Barrington, Cranston
- Boston Access: Easy commute to Boston for entertainment, sports, shopping
💡 Rhode Island RN Advantages at a Glance
- High Salaries: $95K average RN salary — among the highest in the nation
- Coastal Lifestyle: Ocean beaches, sailing, seafood, and coastal charm
- eNLC Flexibility: Work in 40+ states with one license
- Boston Proximity: Access to MA job market while living in RI
- Small State Convenience: Everything is close — short commutes, tight-knit communities
📊 Return on Investment (ROI) Analysis
Investing in an LPN-to-RN bridge program in Rhode Island delivers exceptional financial returns. Here's a detailed breakdown of costs, earnings, and payback timelines.
💰 Investment Summary
Total Program Cost
$10,000
Average tuition + fees
CCRI estimate
(Range: $8K–$28K)
Annual Salary Increase
$29,950
LPN $65K → RN $95K
46% pay raise
$2,495/month extra
⏱️ Payback Timeline
🎯 Break-Even Point: 4 Months
Based on a $10,000 program investment (CCRI) and $29,950 annual salary increase:
- Monthly Income Boost: $2,495 extra per month as an RN
- Payback Period: $10,000 ÷ $2,495/month = 4 months
- Result: Your investment is fully recovered in just 4 months!
📈 Lifetime Earnings Comparison
| Career Path |
10-Year Earnings |
20-Year Earnings |
30-Year Earnings |
| Stay as LPN |
$651,200 |
$1,302,400 |
$1,953,600 |
| Advance to RN |
$950,700 |
$1,901,400 |
$2,852,100 |
| Difference |
+$299,500 |
+$599,000 |
+$898,500 |
💡 Additional Financial Benefits
- Employer Benefits: RNs typically receive better health insurance, retirement matching (403b/457), and paid time off
- Specialty Pay: ICU, OR, ED nurses earn $10K–$15K more annually
- Shift Differentials: Night/weekend shifts often pay 15–25% premiums
- Overtime Opportunities: RNs frequently earn time-and-a-half for extra shifts
- Loan Forgiveness: NURSE Corps and RI state programs forgive $20K–$60K in loans
- Travel Nursing: RNs can earn $90K–$120K as travel nurses after 1–2 years of experience
- MA Commute Option: Work in Boston-area hospitals earning $100K+ while living in RI
🎯 ROI Bottom Line
- Ultra-Fast Payback: Recover your $10K investment in just 4 months
- Lifetime Earnings Boost: Earn nearly $900K more over a 30-year career
- Career Advancement: RN license opens doors to NP, CRNA, CNS, and leadership roles
- Job Security: High demand ensures stable employment and career flexibility
- Geographic Flexibility: eNLC license allows practice in 40+ states
🚀 Next Steps & NCLEX-RN Preparation
Ready to advance from LPN to RN in Rhode Island? Here's your action plan to get started and prepare for NCLEX success.
✅ Your LPN-to-RN Action Plan
- Research Programs (Start Now): Compare the top 5 RI programs listed above — CCRI is most affordable and accessible.
- Complete Prerequisites: Ensure you've finished Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, and other required courses.
- Prepare for TEAS Exam: Take a prep course or use study guides — aim for 75%+ score.
- Apply by January 15, 2026: CCRI and most RI bridge programs have January deadlines for Fall 2026 entry.
- Secure Financial Aid: File FAFSA by February 1; apply for scholarships (RI Foundation, NURSE Corps) and employer tuition assistance.
- Plan Your Schedule: Coordinate work, family, and school — CCRI offers evening/weekend options.
- Complete Your Program: Stay focused, build strong clinical skills, and maintain good grades.
- Prepare for NCLEX-RN: Use a comprehensive review course and practice exams (see resources below).
- Pass NCLEX & Get Licensed: Apply for RN licensure through the RI Department of Health.
- Start Your RN Career: Apply for RN positions at Rhode Island Hospital, Kent Hospital, or other top employers!
📚 NCLEX-RN Preparation Resources
Rhode Island LPN-to-RN graduates typically have strong NCLEX pass rates (85–92%). Here are the best prep resources:
🎓 Recommended NCLEX Prep Courses
- UWorld NCLEX-RN Review: Gold standard for NCLEX prep; 2,000+ practice questions, detailed rationales, performance tracking — UWorld ($199–$399)
- Kaplan NCLEX-RN Review: Comprehensive live or on-demand courses; decision tree method; pass guarantee — Kaplan ($299–$599)
- Hurst Review: Concise, focused content review; popular with CCRI students — Hurst ($299–$499)
- ATI Comprehensive Predictor: Many RI programs include ATI — predicts NCLEX success with 95%+ accuracy
- NCSBN Learning Extension: Official NCLEX prep from the test makers — NCSBN ($50–$150)
📖 Study Guides & Books
- Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN: 5,700+ practice questions; most comprehensive book
- NCLEX-RN Premier (Kaplan): 2,000+ questions, decision tree guide
- Lippincott Q&A Review for NCLEX-RN: 6,000+ questions organized by content area
📱 Free & Low-Cost Resources
- Registered Nurse RN (RegisteredNurseRN.com): Free YouTube videos, study guides, and practice questions
- Simple Nursing: Animated video lessons and mnemonics
- NCLEX Mastery App: 3,000+ questions on iOS/Android ($29.99/year)
💡 NCLEX Success Tips
- Start Early: Begin NCLEX prep 8–12 weeks before graduation
- Practice Questions Daily: Complete 50–100 practice questions every day
- Focus on Weak Areas: Use performance analytics to identify content gaps
- Master Test-Taking Strategies: Learn priority-setting frameworks (ABCs, Maslow, Nursing Process)
- Simulate Test Day: Take full-length practice exams under timed conditions
- Schedule Strategically: Take NCLEX within 4–6 weeks of graduation while content is fresh
📞 Need More Guidance?
Contact CCRI's nursing department or the RI Department of Health for personalized guidance: