💰 Wyoming LPN vs RN Salary Comparison
Transitioning from LPN to RN in Wyoming offers solid salary increases and expanded career opportunities in a state with no income tax and low cost of living. Here's what you can expect to earn:
LPN Average Salary
$61,040
$29.35/hour
Entry level: $54K–$58K
Experienced: $61K–$68K
RN Average Salary
$84,230
$40.50/hour
Entry level: $72K–$78K
Experienced: $84K–$95K
💵 Annual Salary Increase: $23,190+
That's an extra $1,932 per month — or a 38% pay raise by becoming an RN. Plus, Wyoming has NO state income tax, meaning you keep more of your earnings! Over a 30-year career, this translates to approximately $695,700 in additional earnings.
🏙️ Wyoming RN Salary by Region & City
| City/Region |
Average RN Salary |
Hourly Rate |
Notes |
| Cheyenne |
$85,400 |
$41.06 |
State capital; Cheyenne Regional Medical Center; highest demand |
| Casper |
$84,600 |
$40.67 |
Largest healthcare hub; Wyoming Medical Center |
| Laramie |
$83,200 |
$40.00 |
College town (University of Wyoming); Ivinson Memorial Hospital |
| Gillette |
$86,500 |
$41.59 |
Energy industry hub; Campbell County Health; strong economy |
| Rock Springs |
$82,800 |
$39.81 |
Southwest WY; Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County |
| Sheridan |
$81,600 |
$39.23 |
Northern WY; Sheridan Memorial Hospital; rural premium |
| Jackson |
$87,900 |
$42.26 |
Highest cost of living; St. John's Health; tourism/resort area |
🎯 Key Salary Insights
- Highest-Paying Cities: Jackson ($87.9K) and Gillette ($86.5K) offer top RN salaries
- No State Income Tax: Wyoming has NO income tax — keep 100% of your paycheck (vs. 5%–8% in nearby states)
- Low Cost of Living: Housing and living costs are lower than national average (except Jackson)
- Rural Premiums: Rural hospitals offer signing bonuses, loan forgiveness, and relocation assistance
- eNLC Benefits: Wyoming participates in the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing multi-state practice
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🎓 Top 4 Wyoming LPN to RN Bridge Programs
Wyoming offers limited but quality LPN-to-RN pathways through its community colleges. All programs are approved by the Wyoming State Board of Nursing.
1. Central Wyoming College (CWC) — LPN to RN Completion
Location: Riverton, WY
Program Length: 3 semesters (12–15 months with advanced placement)
Degree: Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
Accreditation: ACEN-accredited; WY State Board approved
Highlights: Central Wyoming College offers an LPN-to-RN Completion track with advanced placement credit for LPN experience. Flexible scheduling with evening and weekend options. Clinical partnerships with SageWest Health Care and other regional facilities. Small class sizes with strong faculty support. Affordable community college tuition.
Website: www.cwc.edu/nursing
2. Casper College — Nursing Program (LPN Advanced Standing)
Location: Casper, WY
Program Length: 3–4 semesters (starting Fall 2026 with new hybrid option)
Degree: Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
Accreditation: ACEN-accredited; WY State Board approved
Highlights: Casper College will offer a new hybrid learning option starting Fall 2026, making it more accessible for working LPNs. LPNs receive advanced standing and credit for prior coursework. Clinical placements at Wyoming Medical Center (state's largest hospital). Strong NCLEX pass rates (85%+). Located in Casper, Wyoming's second-largest city.
Website: www.caspercollege.edu/program/nursing
3. Nightingale College — LPN to ASN Program (Online)
Location: Online (serves WY residents)
Program Length: 18 months (accelerated online)
Degree: Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
Accreditation: CCNE-accredited; accepts WY students
Highlights: Fully online LPN-to-ASN program with clinical placements arranged near your home in Wyoming. 18-month accelerated track designed for working LPNs. NCLEX-RN prep integrated. Flexible start dates. Private college tuition (~$20K–$28K). Ideal for rural WY residents with limited local options.
Website: nightingale.edu/lpn-to-asn-program
4. Galen College of Nursing — LPN/LVN to ADN Bridge (Online)
Location: Online (serves WY residents)
Program Length: 18 months (accelerated online)
Degree: Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
Accreditation: ACEN-accredited; accepts WY 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). Strong support for rural and remote students.
Website: galencollege.edu/lpn-lvn-adn-bridge
🔍 How to Choose the Right Program
- Accreditation: Ensure ACEN or CCNE accreditation and WY State Board of Nursing approval
- Location: WY community colleges (CWC, Casper College) are most affordable and accessible for in-state residents
- Online Options: Nightingale and Galen offer fully online programs — ideal for rural WY residents
- Program Length: Accelerated tracks (12–18 months) vs. part-time options (2 years)
- Cost: WY community colleges ~$8K–$12K total; online private colleges ~$18K–$28K
- Schedule: Look for hybrid/evening/weekend options if working full-time
📋 Admission Requirements & Application Process
Wyoming LPN-to-RN bridge programs have competitive admission processes. Here's what you need to prepare:
✅ General Prerequisites
- Current WY 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+ preferred for competitive admission
- TEAS or HESI Exam: ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) or HESI A2 — typically 60–65% minimum score
- 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 6–12 months of LPN clinical experience preferred
📝 Application Timeline (Fall 2026 Entry)
- August–October 2025: Research programs; complete prerequisite courses
- November 2025: Register and take TEAS/HESI exam; request official transcripts
- December 2025–February 2026: Submit applications (WY programs vary; Casper College and CWC typically have January–February deadlines)
- February–March 2026: Interviews and supplemental document submission
- March–April 2026: Acceptance notifications released
- April–August 2026: Orientation, clinical clearance, financial aid processing
- Late August 2026: Classes begin
💡 Application Tips
- Apply Early: WY has limited LPN-to-RN programs — apply by early February for best chances
- Strong TEAS/HESI Score: Aim for 70%+ to be competitive; take a prep course if needed
- Complete Prerequisites First: Don't apply with pending courses — finish all prereqs
- Highlight Clinical Experience: Emphasize your LPN work experience and patient care skills
- Consider Online Programs: If you live in rural WY, online programs (Nightingale, Galen) offer flexibility
- Request Transcripts Early: Allow 2–3 weeks for transcript processing
💵 Financial Aid, Scholarships & Tuition Costs
Wyoming LPN-to-RN bridge programs are affordable, especially at community colleges. 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 |
| WY Community Colleges |
$8,000–$12,000 |
$125–$200 (in-state) |
Central Wyoming College, Casper College — most affordable |
| Private/Online Colleges |
$18,000–$28,000 |
$400–$550 |
Nightingale College, Galen College — online programs |
🎓 Scholarships & Financial Aid Options
Wyoming-Specific Scholarships
- Wyoming Health Care Commission Scholarships: Various scholarships for WY residents pursuing healthcare degrees, including nursing — Apply here
- Hathaway Scholarship (WY): Merit-based scholarship for WY high school graduates attending WY colleges — up to $1,680/year
- Wyoming Nursing Scholarship: Contact Wyoming State Board of Nursing for available scholarships
- Hospital-Sponsored Scholarships: Wyoming Medical Center, Cheyenne Regional, and other hospitals offer tuition assistance with service commitments
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 Wyoming hospitals offer tuition reimbursement for LPNs pursuing RN degrees:
- Wyoming Medical Center (Casper): Tuition assistance programs for employees
- Cheyenne Regional Medical Center: Tuition reimbursement for bridge program students
- Campbell County Health (Gillette): Financial support with service commitment
- St. John's Health (Jackson): Tuition assistance and loan forgiveness programs
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 March 1 for maximum aid eligibility
- Check Employer Benefits First: Many WY hospitals offer tuition assistance — ask your HR department
- Apply for Multiple Scholarships: WY Health Care Commission and hospital scholarships can cover significant costs
- Consider Service Commitments: NURSE Corps and NHSC programs offer full rides in exchange for rural service
- Budget for Extras: Include costs for books ($800–$1,200), NCLEX prep ($300–$500), uniforms, and supplies
- Tax Advantage: No WY state income tax = more take-home pay to cover tuition
By submitting, you agree to receive information from schools that match your interests.
📈 Wyoming RN Job Market & Career Outlook
Wyoming faces a critical nursing shortage, creating excellent job prospects for new RN graduates. The state's rural geography and small population mean high demand and job security.
+19%
RN Job Growth (2024–2034)
600+
Annual RN Job Openings in WY
6,500+
Currently Licensed RNs in WY
99%
Employment Rate for RN Grads
🏥 Top Employers for RNs in Wyoming
| Employer |
Location |
RN Starting Salary |
Specialty Focus |
| Wyoming Medical Center |
Casper |
$72,000–$80,000 |
State's largest hospital; Level II Trauma Center; all specialties |
| Cheyenne Regional Medical Center |
Cheyenne |
$73,000–$81,000 |
State capital; Level II Trauma; cardiac, cancer, women's health |
| Campbell County Health |
Gillette |
$74,000–$82,000 |
Energy hub; comprehensive care; strong economy |
| St. John's Health |
Jackson |
$75,000–$85,000 |
Resort town; high cost of living premium; excellent benefits |
| Ivinson Memorial Hospital |
Laramie |
$71,000–$79,000 |
University town; community hospital; family health |
| Sheridan Memorial Hospital |
Sheridan |
$70,000–$78,000 |
Northern WY; rural health focus; community care |
| Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County |
Rock Springs |
$70,000–$78,000 |
Southwest WY; regional medical center |
💼 Career Specialties & Advanced Roles
After gaining RN experience, Wyoming nurses can pursue advanced roles and specializations:
- Critical Care (ICU): $82,000–$98,000 — high demand in Casper and Cheyenne
- Emergency Department (ED): $80,000–$95,000 — Level II trauma centers
- Operating Room (OR): $79,000–$93,000 — surgical centers across WY
- Labor & Delivery (L&D): $78,000–$92,000 — women's health focus
- Nurse Practitioner (NP): $105,000–$130,000 — requires MSN/DNP; high demand in rural WY
- Nurse Educator: $72,000–$85,000 — teach at WY community college nursing programs
- Travel Nursing: $90,000–$120,000 — short-term contracts across the U.S.
🎯 Why Wyoming RNs Are In Demand
- Critical Shortage: WY faces one of the highest nurse-to-population ratios in the U.S.
- Rural Health Needs: Many WY counties are federally designated Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs)
- Retiring Nurses: 30% of WY RNs are over age 55, creating workforce gaps
- eNLC Access: WY participates in eNLC — work in 40+ states with one license
- Economic Stability: Energy industry supports strong WY economy and healthcare funding
📜 Wyoming RN Licensing Requirements
After completing your LPN-to-RN bridge program, you'll need to obtain RN licensure through the Wyoming State Board of Nursing.
✅ Steps to RN Licensure in Wyoming
- Graduate from Accredited Program: Complete a WY State Board-approved ADN or BSN program
- Apply for NCLEX-RN Authorization: Submit application through the Wyoming State Board of Nursing website
- 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: $175 initial RN license fee + $50 background check
- Receive NCLEX Authorization to Test (ATT): Typically within 2–4 weeks of application approval
- Schedule & Take NCLEX-RN: Register through Pearson VUE — test in Cheyenne or travel to nearby CO/MT locations
- Pass NCLEX-RN: Results typically available within 48 hours via "Quick Results"
- Receive WY RN License: License issued electronically within 1 week of passing NCLEX
🔄 Wyoming eNLC Participation
✅ Wyoming is an eNLC State
Wyoming 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 states (CO, MT, ID, etc.) if they're eNLC members
Note: To qualify for a compact license, you must declare WY as your primary state of residence.
📞 Contact Wyoming State Board of Nursing
🔄 RN License Renewal
- Renewal Cycle: Every 2 years
- Continuing Education: 400 contact hours of nursing practice OR 30 contact hours of continuing education per renewal cycle
- Renewal Fee: $175 every 2 years
- Online Renewal: Available through the WY Board of Nursing website 90 days before expiration
🤠 Why Become an RN in Wyoming?
Wyoming — the Cowboy State — offers unique advantages for LPNs transitioning to RN roles, from stunning landscapes to no income tax and strong job security.
No Tax
Zero State Income Tax
eNLC
Multi-State Licensure Access
19%
RN Job Growth (2024–2034)
#1
Least Densely Populated State
✨ Top Reasons to Pursue RN Licensure in Wyoming
1. No State Income Tax
Wyoming has NO state income tax — meaning your $84K RN salary goes further than $89K+ in states with 5–8% income tax. Keep more of what you earn!
2. Stunning Natural Beauty
From Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks to Devil's Tower and Bighorn Mountains, Wyoming offers unparalleled outdoor recreation and natural beauty.
3. Low Cost of Living (Except Jackson)
Housing is affordable in most WY cities — median home prices in Casper ($250K) and Cheyenne ($320K) are well below the national average. Jackson is the exception due to resort-town pricing.
4. Small-Town Community Feel
With only 580,000 residents statewide, Wyoming offers tight-knit communities, low crime, and a relaxed pace of life. No traffic jams or big-city stress.
5. Strong Job Security
Wyoming's critical nursing shortage means RNs are in high demand. Job offers often include signing bonuses, relocation assistance, and loan forgiveness.
6. eNLC Multi-State Practice
As an eNLC state, Wyoming RNs can work in 40+ compact states without additional licenses — ideal for travel nursing, telehealth, or relocating.
🌟 Quality of Life Highlights
- Outdoor Paradise: Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, skiing, hiking, fishing, hunting year-round
- No State Income Tax: Keep 100% of your paycheck (save 5–8% vs. neighboring states)
- Low Crime & Safety: One of the safest states in the U.S.
- Affordable Housing: Median home prices $200K–$320K (except Jackson)
- Small-Town Living: Friendly communities, no traffic, relaxed lifestyle
- Four Seasons: Beautiful summers, snowy winters perfect for skiing
💡 Wyoming RN Advantages at a Glance
- No Income Tax: Keep more of your $84K salary
- Natural Beauty: Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, world-class outdoor recreation
- Job Security: Critical nursing shortage = high demand and stability
- eNLC Flexibility: Work in 40+ states with one license
- Small-Town Living: Low crime, friendly communities, affordable housing
📊 Return on Investment (ROI) Analysis
Investing in an LPN-to-RN bridge program in Wyoming delivers exceptional financial returns — especially with no state income tax. Here's a detailed breakdown of costs, earnings, and payback timelines.
💰 Investment Summary
Total Program Cost
$10,000
Average tuition + fees
WY community college estimate
(Range: $8K–$28K)
Annual Salary Increase
$23,190
LPN $61K → RN $84K
38% pay raise
$1,932/month extra
+ NO state income tax!
⏱️ Payback Timeline
🎯 Break-Even Point: 5 Months
Based on a $10,000 program investment and $23,190 annual salary increase:
- Monthly Income Boost: $1,932 extra per month as an RN
- Payback Period: $10,000 ÷ $1,932/month = 5.2 months
- Result: Your investment is fully recovered in just 5 months!
- No Income Tax Bonus: You keep 100% of your raise (vs. losing 5–8% in nearby states)
📈 Lifetime Earnings Comparison
| Career Path |
10-Year Earnings |
20-Year Earnings |
30-Year Earnings |
| Stay as LPN |
$610,400 |
$1,220,800 |
$1,831,200 |
| Advance to RN |
$842,300 |
$1,684,600 |
$2,526,900 |
| Difference |
+$231,900 |
+$463,800 |
+$695,700 |
💡 Additional Financial Benefits
- No State Income Tax: Save 5–8% annually vs. neighboring states — that's $4,200–$6,700/year extra in your pocket!
- Employer Benefits: RNs typically receive better health insurance, retirement matching, and paid time off
- Specialty Pay: ICU, OR, ED nurses earn $8K–$12K more annually
- Shift Differentials: Night/weekend shifts often pay 10–20% premiums
- Signing Bonuses: Many WY hospitals offer $5K–$15K signing bonuses for RNs
- Loan Forgiveness: NURSE Corps and rural health programs forgive $20K–$60K in loans for rural WY service
- Travel Nursing: RNs can earn $90K–$120K as travel nurses after 1–2 years of experience
🎯 ROI Bottom Line
- Ultra-Fast Payback: Recover your $10K investment in just 5 months
- Lifetime Earnings Boost: Earn nearly $700K more over a 30-year career
- Tax Advantage: No state income tax = save $4K–$7K/year extra
- Career Advancement: RN license opens doors to NP, CRNA, CNS, and leadership roles
- Job Security: High demand ensures stable employment and career flexibility
🚀 Next Steps & NCLEX-RN Preparation
Ready to advance from LPN to RN in Wyoming? 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 4 WY programs listed above — Central Wyoming College and Casper College are most accessible and affordable.
- Complete Prerequisites: Ensure you've finished Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, and other required courses.
- Prepare for TEAS/HESI Exam: Take a prep course or use study guides — aim for 70%+ score.
- Apply by January–February 2026: Most WY programs have January–February deadlines for Fall 2026 entry.
- Secure Financial Aid: File FAFSA by March 1; apply for scholarships (WY Health Care Commission, NURSE Corps) and employer tuition assistance.
- Plan Your Schedule: Coordinate work, family, and school — consider hybrid/online options if needed.
- 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 WY State Board of Nursing.
- Start Your RN Career: Apply for RN positions at Wyoming Medical Center, Cheyenne Regional, or other top employers!
📚 NCLEX-RN Preparation Resources
Wyoming LPN-to-RN graduates typically have strong NCLEX pass rates (85–90%). 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 WY nursing students — Hurst ($299–$499)
- ATI Comprehensive Predictor: Many WY 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 your program's nursing department or the WY State Board of Nursing for personalized guidance: