Cary vs Greensboro: Licensed Practical Nurse Salary (2026)
Compare licensed practical nurse salaries between Cary, NC and Greensboro, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cary, NC | Greensboro, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $67,410▲ | $67,236 |
| Hourly Rate | $32.41▲ | $32.32 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $53,357▲ | $52,744 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,467 | $63,367▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $78,836▲ | $71,136 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $90,093▲ | $78,926 |
| Total Employed | 44 | 1,470▲ |
Verdict
Cary, NC offers better overall compensation for licensed practical nurses, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Greensboro.
The salary gap between Cary and Greensboro is $174 (0.26%). Cary's median is -0.97% compared to the US national median of $68,071.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cary spans $36,736,Greensboro spans $26,182. Cary has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Greensboro ($72,402 effective) pays 0.53% more than Cary ($72,019 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cary if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($67,410/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($90,093)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Greensboro if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,470 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $72,402)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, licensed practical nurse salaries in Cary grew 23.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 44.3% growth in Greensboro over the same period.
Cary, NC
$51,747 (2024) → $63,775 (2025)
Greensboro, NC
$44,080 (2019) → $63,610 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Greensboro, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Aisha Malik, LPN
Career Analyst
Aisha has 10 years of experience as a licensed practical nurse. She specializes in pediatric nursing. Aisha has worked in various outpatient clinics.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.70% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Aisha Malik, LPN, a licensed licensed practical nurse with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov