August 6, 2025 | British Columbia

If you’re thinking about starting a career in healthcare and wondering about the potential earnings, you might be asking: How much do Practical Nurses make in BC? It’s a smart question especially if you’re considering enrolling in a diploma program like the one offered at CDI College. Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) not only gives you a meaningful career but also offers solid financial stability and consistent demand across British Columbia. 
 

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know how much practical nurses earn, the demand for their skills, and whether it’s a good career path in BC. We’ll also highlight how CDI College can help you get started in just 75 weeks. 

The Growing Demand for Practical Nurses in BC 

British Columbia is one of the best places in Canada to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. Why? Because the demand is strong and growing. Between 2024 and 2026, the employment outlook for LPNs in BC is rated "Good", according to national labour market data. Several factors contribute to this: 
 

• The province's aging population requires more long term and chronic care. 
• Hospitals and residential care facilities are under pressure to fill frontline roles. 
• Many current nurses are retiring, creating new openings. 
• There are relatively few unemployed LPNs with recent experience. 
   

Currently, approximately 6,150 people work as LPNs in BC. Most are employed in: 
 

• Hospitals (56%) 
• Nursing and residential care facilities (33%) 
• Ambulatory health care services (8%) 
   

The demand is province wide, with "Good" job prospects reported in nearly every region, including: 
 

• Vancouver Island and Coast 
• Lower Mainland Southwest 
• Cariboo 
• Kootenay 
• Thompson Okanagan 
   

This high and stable demand means more job security, easier entry into the field, and multiple career paths once you're licensed. 
 

Bonus Read: What is a Licensed Practical Nurse?   
 

How Much Do Practical Nurses Make in BC? 

Now for the big question: How much do Practical Nurses make in BC? As of December 2024, according to Job Back Canada here are the most recent hourly wage estimates for LPNs across British Columbia: 

Province wide (BC average): 
 

• Low: $27.50/hour 
• Median: $32.00/hour 
• High: $37.20/hour 
   

That means a full time LPN in BC earning the median wage of $32.00/hour could make roughly $66,560 per year before taxes and benefits. 

Regional Median Wage Highlights: 
 

• Vancouver Island & Coast: $32.98 /hour 
• Thompson Okanagan: $32/hour 
• Cariboo Region: $32.98 /hour 
• Lower Mainland Southwest: $31.00/hour 
   

The national median wage for LPNs is about $30.15/hour, so BC offers some of the highest paying LPN positions in the country. Plus, 94.4% of LPNs in BC receive non-wage benefits such as: 
 

• Extended health and dental insurance 
• Paid sick leave and vacation 
• Employer contributions to the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) 
• Maternity or caregiver leave 
• Pension or retirement savings plans 
   

Whether you're just starting out or looking to make a career change, practical nursing in BC offers strong financial incentives. 
 

Read More: What Do Licensed Practical Nurses Do?   
 

Is Practical Nursing a Good Career in BC? 

Short answer: yes. Here's why becoming an LPN in BC is more than just a stable job it's a rewarding long-term career. 

1. Strong Earnings with Room to Grow 

With a median wage of $32/hour and high-end earnings reaching $38+/hour in some regions, LPNs earn well above many other professions that require less than a university degree. And if you continue your education, bridging into an RN program can further increase your income and responsibility. 

2. Excellent Job Security 

With nearly all regions of BC facing a growing need for LPNs, your skills will be in demand from the moment you graduate. Whether you want to work in a hospital, school, group home, or private care, you’ll find opportunities everywhere. 

3. Meaningful Work That Changes Lives 

LPNs are often the healthcare professionals patients see most often. You’ll be on the front lines of care providing comfort, monitoring recovery, offering health education, and building strong relationships with patients and families. 

4. Career Flexibility 

LPNs in BC can work full time (77% do), part time, or seasonally. Whether you want a steady weekday schedule or something more flexible to match your lifestyle, practical nursing can adapt to your needs. 

5. A Profession That Values Education 

Most LPNs in BC hold a college diploma, and more employers are investing in ongoing professional development. It’s a great field if you value continuous learning. 
 

Bonus Read: How Long is Practical Nursing Program? 
 

Launch Your Nursing Career at CDI College 

At CDI College, we know how important it is to train practical nurses who are ready to meet BC's healthcare needs today and in the future. That’s why our Practical Nursing Diploma Program is designed to prepare students in just 75 weeks. What You’ll Get in CDI College's Program: 
 

• 475 hours of clinical practice in real healthcare settings 
• 180-hour preceptorship for hands on, guided experience 
• Experienced instructors with industry backgrounds 
• Modern labs and simulation spaces to practise real world scenarios 
• Team based learning that mirrors healthcare environments 
• Preparation to write the REx PN (Regulatory Exam for Practical Nurses) 
• Eligibility to apply with the BCCNM to become a Licensed Practical Nurse 
• Six months of career services support after graduation 
   

Our curriculum is designed to intertwine theory and practice. You'll study everything from pharmacology and health promotion to communication, ethics, and professional practice. 

Admission Requirements: 

To enrol in the Practical Nursing program at CDI College, you must: 
 

• Have a Grade 12 diploma or equivalent 
• Meet minimum marks in Math, English, and Anatomy & Physiology 
• Complete a criminal record check 
• Provide a Physician’s Report and immunization proof 
   

If your education was completed outside Canada, credential evaluation may be required. 

Final Thoughts: A Career That Pays Off 

So, how much do Practical Nurses make in BC? Enough to build a comfortable, stable, and rewarding life. With wages ranging from $27.50 to $38.46/hour, strong job prospects, benefits, and the chance to work in settings that truly impact lives practical nursing is a smart choice. And it all starts with the right education. 
 

At CDI College, our Practical Nursing program is more than a diploma it’s your launchpad to a career with purpose, pay, and the power to grow. Apply today and take the first step toward becoming an LPN in British Columbia.