DeKalb vs Springfield: Licensed Practical Nurse Salary (2026)
Compare licensed practical nurse salaries between DeKalb, IL and Springfield, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DeKalb, IL | Springfield, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $68,157▲ | $63,536 |
| Hourly Rate | $32.77▲ | $30.55 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $56,443▲ | $53,305 |
| 25th Percentile | $64,487▲ | $63,082 |
| 75th Percentile | $77,423▲ | $68,018 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $88,785▲ | $81,220 |
| Total Employed | 9 | 500▲ |
Verdict
DeKalb, IL offers better overall compensation for licensed practical nurses, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Springfield.
The salary gap between DeKalb and Springfield is $4,621 (7.27%). DeKalb's median is +0.13% compared to the US national median of $68,071.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in DeKalb spans $32,342,Springfield spans $27,915. DeKalb 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, DeKalb ($70,193 effective) pays 2.46% more than Springfield ($68,506 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose DeKalb if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($68,157/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($88,785)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $70,193)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Larger job market (500 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, licensed practical nurse salaries in DeKalb grew 11.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 33.1% growth in Springfield over the same period.
DeKalb, IL
$57,931 (2024) → $64,482 (2025)
Springfield, IL
$45,170 (2019) → $60,110 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
DeKalb, IL
Springfield, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays licensed practical nurses more: DeKalb or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between DeKalb and Springfield?
Should I relocate from DeKalb to Springfield as a licensed practical nurse?
What do entry-level licensed practical nurses earn in DeKalb vs Springfield?
Related Comparisons
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