California LVN to RN/BSN Programs

Last Updated/Verified: Mar 19, 2025

California, the land of sun and fun, significantly emphasizes healthy lifestyles. That’s why there’s been an increase in demand for skilled RNs. Many LVNs enroll in one of the state’s many LVN to RN programs. Upon completing an RN degree (either an ADN or BSN), these nurses can take on more responsibility and earn substantially higher salaries. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that RNs in California earn an average of $49,080 more annually than LVNs, making it both a rewarding and lucrative career move.

Are you looking for more information on the LVN to RN transition? Learn more about taking and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Also, check out the California Board of Registered Nursing for information on licensing and available organizations and associations for registered nurses in the state.

2025 Best LVN to RN Programs in California

Looking for the best LVN to RN programs in California? PracticalNursing.org has you covered. We rank top programs to help you move forward in your nursing career. Our list is based on key factors like program quality, cost, and student success rates. Find a program that fits your needs and goals. Start your journey to becoming an RN today. Learn more about how we rank programs here.

#1

Point Loma Nazarene University

San Diego, CA - Private 4-year - pointloma.edu

Bachelor's - LVN to BSN

Campus Based - Visit Website

Point Loma Nazarene University offers an LVN to BSN program designed for licensed vocational nurses seeking to advance their careers to registered nursing. This campus-based program is approved by the California Board of Nursing and requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and six months of LVN experience for admission. Students engage in over 1,100 clinical hours, gaining hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings. The curriculum blends technical nursing skills with a faith-based approach to holistic patient care, preparing graduates for roles in San Diego's leading medical facilities. Advanced placement options and competitive healthcare networking opportunities further enhance this program's appeal. Requires ACT/SAT.

  • California Board of Nursing approved
  • Over 1,100 clinical hours
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Six months LVN experience needed
  • Faith-based nursing curriculum
  • Advanced placement options
  • Competitive healthcare networking
#2

National University

San Diego, CA - Private 4-year - nu.edu

Associate - LVN to RN 30 Unit Option

Campus Based - Visit Website

National University's LVN to RN 30 Unit Option is a concise program tailored for Licensed Vocational Nurses in California aiming to transition to Registered Nurses. This campus-based program emphasizes a quick completion time of about 10 months, making it an excellent choice for working professionals. It focuses on the essential units needed for the RN licensure exam, blending theoretical knowledge with clinical practice. The program is designed to enhance clinical skills and open up broader career opportunities in nursing, all without an application fee.

  • In-person program option
  • 10 months average completion time
  • Zero application fee
  • California state-specific program
  • Designed for working LVNs
  • 44.5 quarter units required
  • Focuses on professional nursing transition

Bachelor's - Licensed Vocational Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LVN to BSN)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Licensed Vocational Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LVN to BSN) at National University offers a hybrid learning model, combining online coursework with on-campus sessions. This program is ideal for LVNs seeking to elevate their nursing practice through advanced education. It covers patient care, nursing judgment, and leadership in healthcare, preparing graduates for higher-level roles. With monthly starts, WSCUC accreditation, and a requirement of 180 quarter units, this program is structured for flexibility and depth, catering to the needs of working nurses and veterans alike. Requires ACT/SAT.

  • Hybrid online and on-campus
  • Monthly program starts
  • WSCUC Accredited program
  • Current LVN license required
  • 180 quarter units total degree
  • Nonprofit university program
  • Advanced nursing skills training
  • Professional nursing leadership focus
  • California state board approved
  • Veteran-friendly institution
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science

Los Angeles, CA - Private 4-year - cdrewu.edu

Bachelor's - LVN to BSN Track

Campus Based - Visit Website

Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science provides an LVN to BSN Track designed for Licensed Vocational Nurses aiming to advance their careers to Registered Nurses. This campus-based program is tailored for LVNs with at least two years of experience, offering a full-time curriculum that covers essential nursing disciplines such as anatomy and pathophysiology. With a requirement of 99 credits and 650 clinical hours, the program ensures graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam and eligible for Public Health Nurse certification. Accreditation by CCNE and a minimum GPA of 3.0 underscore the program's commitment to quality nursing education.

  • Full-time BSN track for LVNs
  • 99 total program credits
  • 650 clinical hours
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Two years LVN experience needed
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
  • Public Health Nurse certification
  • Comprehensive clinical training
#4

California State University-San Marcos

San Marcos, CA - Public 4-Year - csusm.edu

Bachelor's - LVN to BSN

Campus Based - Visit Website

California State University-San Marcos provides a dynamic LVN to BSN program tailored for Licensed Vocational Nurses aiming to elevate their nursing practice. This rigorous three-year, full-time program is structured to transition LVNs into Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates, emphasizing a cohort-based approach for peer support and networking. With 56 specialized nursing units, the curriculum is enriched by hands-on clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings across San Diego and Riverside Counties. Designed for seamless entry, the program empowers LVNs with advanced clinical skills, broader career prospects, and the academic foundation of a BSN degree. Highlights include fall semester starts, day courses, and the requirement of a valid California LVN license for admission.

  • 3-year full-time program
  • 56 total nursing units
  • Clinical placements each semester
  • Cohort-based learning model
  • Fall semester entry
  • Requires valid CA LVN license
  • Day courses with varied clinicals
#5

San Diego State University

San Diego, CA - Public 4-Year - sdsu.edu

Associate - LVN-RN 30-Unit Option

Campus Based - Visit Website

San Diego State University's LVN-RN 30-Unit Option is tailored for California Licensed Vocational Nurses looking to transition into Registered Nursing roles. This unique program focuses on essential nursing competencies without awarding a degree, specifically preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam for California licensure. The curriculum is intensive, covering critical areas such as Microbiology, Human Physiology, and Clinical Pharmacology, alongside Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing and Leadership in Nursing. It's a perfect fit for LVNs aiming to enhance their career within California, though its recognition is limited outside the state. Prospective enrollees are encouraged to engage with the Student Success Coordinator for detailed guidance on the application process.

  • 30-unit program for LVNs.
  • Prepares for NCLEX exam.
  • No degree awarded.
  • California RN licensure focus.
  • Includes Microbiology, Pharmacology.
  • Human Physiology course.
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing.
  • Nursing Management and Leadership.
  • Clinical Pharmacology included.
  • Research and Evidence-Based Practice.
  • Complex Patient Care course.
  • Leadership Laboratory component.
  • California BRN recognition.
  • Limited out-of-state recognition.
  • Consult Student Success Coordinator.
  • SDSU Open University registration.
  • Impacted program status.
  • Space available basis.
  • No ADN or BSN degree.
  • Career ladder for LVNs.
  • World-class faculty.
  • Endless learning opportunities.
  • Passionate student community.
  • San Diego, CA location.
  • Contact for application details.

List of 2025 LVN to RN or LVN to BSN Programs in CA

Below is the 2025 best comprehensive list of LVN to RN programs in California. Some of these programs may be a ADN or BSN degree, please visit the school's website for program details.

Jump to City:

Aptos, CA

Cabrillo College

  • Associate - Advanced Placement for LVNs

    Campus Based - Website

    • For LVNs, military, transfers.
    • Campus-based program.
    • Challenging courses available.
    • NCLEX-RN exam eligibility.
    • Space available basis.
    • Minimum GPA required.
    • Preliminary planning appointment.
    • Competitive admission process.

Chula Vista, CA

Southwestern College

  • Associate - Step-Up LVN to ADN Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • One-year transition program
    • Three semester total duration
    • Current LVN license required
    • 62% TEAS test minimum score
    • Estimated program cost $4,144-$4,432
    • Starts in spring semester
    • Multiple prerequisite courses needed
    • Science GPA minimum 2.5

Cupertino, CA

De Anza College

  • Associate - LVN Transition to Registered Nurse

    Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced nursing pathway for LVNs
    • Minimum three-quarter program length
    • California LVN license required
    • Daytime course schedule
    • NCLEX-RN exam eligibility
    • Approved by CA Nursing Board
    • Advanced placement options
    • Prior clinical experience considered

Cypress, CA

Cypress College

  • Associate - Career Mobility Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • LVN and LPT Bridge Program
    • Associate Degree in Nursing
    • NCLEX Preparation
    • Military Healthcare Experience Accepted
    • Two Specialized Pathway Options

El Cajon, CA

Grossmont College

  • Associate - LVN-RN Bridge Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Current LVN license required
    • Flexible pathway options
    • Advanced clinical training
    • Prepare for NCLEX-RN
    • Multiple semester entry points
    • No repeated course content
    • Campus and clinical experiences
    • Comprehensive nursing skills development

Fremont, CA

Ohlone College

  • Associate - Advanced Placement for LVNs

    Campus Based - Website

    • Valid California LVN license required.
    • Minimum one year LVN experience.
    • ATI TEAS exam score of 62% or higher.
    • Completion of LVN-RN bridge course.
    • Transfer into third semester of RN program.
    • Space-available basis for admission.
    • Focus on advanced nursing skills.
    • Leadership and transition to practice.

Glendora, CA

Citrus College

  • Associate - Advanced Placement Option (LVN to RN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Associate Degree Nursing Program
    • Provides direct client care skills
    • Covers life span health needs
    • Multiple entry pathway options
    • Advanced Placement Option available
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Career-focused healthcare training

Huntington Beach, CA

Golden West College

  • Associate - LVN-RN Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • For current LVN license holders
    • Associate Degree in Nursing
    • RN-NCLEX exam preparation
    • Minimum 1 year patient care experience
    • Biology prerequisites required
    • Cohort-based admission
    • Application period: April 1-15, 2025

Lancaster, CA

Antelope Valley Community College District

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Four-semester nursing program
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • California BRN approved curriculum
    • Comprehensive clinical training
    • Multiple vaccination requirements
    • Detailed application process
    • Physical capability assessments
    • Drug screening mandatory

Loma Linda, CA

Loma Linda University

  • Bachelor's - LVN to BS in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited Nursing Program
    • 3.0 Minimum GPA Required
    • Faith-Based Educational Approach
    • Multiple Scholarship Options
    • NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation
    • Comprehensive Prerequisite Courses
    • Whole Patient Care Focus

Long Beach, CA

Long Beach City College

  • Associate - LVN to RN Career Ladder

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited Nursing Program
    • Entry-level RN preparation
    • Career advancement pathway
    • Associate in Science degree option
    • Certificate of Achievement available

Los Angeles, CA

Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science

  • Bachelor's - LVN to BSN Track

    Campus Based - Website

    • Full-time BSN track for LVNs
    • 99 total program credits
    • 650 clinical hours
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Two years LVN experience needed
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Public Health Nurse certification

Los Angeles Trade Technical College

  • Associate - LVN to RN Bridge

    Campus Based - Website

    • Board of Registered Nursing Approved
    • Sequenced nursing courses
    • NCLEX exam preparation
    • Must have valid VN license
    • Multiple nursing specialties covered
    • 2.5 GPA science requirement
    • TEAS entrance exam required
    • Bridge course for LVNs

Merced, CA

Merced College

  • Associate - LVN to RN 30-unit option

    Campus Based - Website

    • LVN to RN pathway
    • 30-unit option available
    • Campus-based program
    • Career advancement track
    • Professional nursing progression

Modesto, CA

Modesto Junior College

  • Associate - Advanced Placement Pathway

    Campus Based - Website

    • LVN/LPT to RN pathway
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • Individualized credit evaluation
    • Comprehensive clinical training
    • Space available admission
    • Transition course required
    • Active license mandatory
    • Multiple admission criteria

Monterey Park, CA

East Los Angeles College

  • Associate - LVN to RN

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program.
    • Requires California VN license.
    • Prerequisite courses needed.
    • Focuses on pharmacology.
    • Includes psychiatric nursing.
    • Covers medical/surgical nursing.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Certificate of Achievement awarded.

Norwalk, CA

Cerritos College

  • Associate - Option C LVN-ADN Mobility Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced placement for LVNs.
    • Eligible for NCLEX-RN examination.
    • Associate in Arts Degree awarded.
    • Requires valid California LVN license.
    • One year patient care experience needed.
    • Focus on advanced nursing skills.
    • Includes psychosocial and community nursing.
    • Covers medical-surgical nursing.

Oceanside, CA

MiraCosta College

  • Associate - LVN-RN Career Ladder Nursing Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Full-time nursing program
    • Annual admission cycle
    • Current CA LVN license required
    • 2.75 science course GPA
    • TEAS exam mandatory
    • California RN licensure focus
    • Approximately $1500 per semester
    • COVID-19 vaccination required

Palm Desert, CA

College of the Desert

  • Associate - LVN to RN Transition Option

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced placement for LVNs
    • 2-3 semester program length
    • Estimated $3,480 total cost
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Accredited by ACEN
    • Science GPA 2.5 requirement
    • IV certification required
    • TEAS exam score 62%+

Pasadena, CA

Pasadena City College

  • Associate - LVN to RN (Career Ladder) Nursing Option

    Campus Based - Website

    • Three-semester nursing advancement
    • Associate Degree in Nursing
    • NCLEX-RN exam eligibility
    • California Board of Nursing approved
    • Candidate for ACEN accreditation

Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Chaffey College

  • Associate - ADN Advanced Placement (LVN to RN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Established nursing program since 1957
    • ACEN Accredited Program
    • LVN to RN Advanced Placement
    • Over 2,000 nursing graduates
    • NCLEX exam preparation
    • California Board of Nursing approved
    • Campus-based program
    • Multiple information sessions available

Riverside, CA

Riverside City College

  • Associate - LVN to ADN Flexible (FLEX) Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid video-streamed lectures
    • Approved by California BRN
    • Flexible for working LVNs
    • Minimal 2.3 science GPA
    • Approximately $6,500 total cost

Rocklin, CA

Sierra College

  • Associate - LVN to RN Upward Mobility Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • One to 1.5 year program
    • Full-time nursing pathway
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • Active LVN license required
    • Multiple prerequisite science courses
    • TEAS exam mandatory
    • Campus-based program
    • Selective admission process

Sacramento, CA

American River College

  • Associate - LVN-to-RN Career Mobility Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 1-year program duration.
    • Hybrid online and campus format.
    • Requires active California LVN license.
    • 6 months recent LVN work needed.
    • Start-up costs around $2,500.
    • Prepares for RN licensure exam.
    • Includes summer bridge course.
    • C grade or better required.

Sacramento City College

  • Associate - LVN-to-RN Career Mobility program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Two program track options
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Diverse clinical rotations
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • Associate in Science degree
    • Multiple clinical specialties
    • Comprehensive patient care skills
    • QSEN competency training

San Bernardino, CA

San Bernardino Valley College

  • Associate - LVN to RN Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced placement with challenge exam
    • Separate application pool for LVNs
    • 1-2 years LVN work experience required
    • Multiple program entry options
    • COVID-19 vaccination requirement
    • Background check mandatory
    • ATI TEAS exam by invitation

San Diego, CA

National University

  • Bachelor's - Licensed Vocational Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LVN to BSN)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid online and on-campus
    • Monthly program starts
    • WSCUC Accredited program
    • Current LVN license required
    • 180 quarter units total degree
    • Nonprofit university program
    • Advanced nursing skills training
    • Professional nursing leadership focus
  • Associate - LVN to RN 30 Unit Option

    Campus Based - Website

    • In-person program option
    • 10 months average completion time
    • Zero application fee
    • California state-specific program
    • Designed for working LVNs
    • 44.5 quarter units required
    • Focuses on professional nursing transition

Point Loma Nazarene University

  • Bachelor's - LVN to BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • California Board of Nursing approved
    • Over 1,100 clinical hours
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Six months LVN experience needed
    • Faith-based nursing curriculum
    • Advanced placement options
    • Competitive healthcare networking

San Diego City College

  • Associate - Licensed Vocational Nurse to Registered Nurse (LVN to RN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced nursing education pathway
    • 45 total program units
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Diverse healthcare settings training
    • Cultural competency focus
    • Prerequisites include biology courses
    • Communication and social science integration

San Diego State University

  • Associate - LVN-RN 30-Unit Option

    Campus Based - Website

    • 30-unit program for LVNs.
    • Prepares for NCLEX exam.
    • No degree awarded.
    • California RN licensure focus.
    • Includes Microbiology, Pharmacology.
    • Human Physiology course.
    • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing.
    • Nursing Management and Leadership.

San Jacinto, CA

Mt San Jacinto Community College District

  • Associate - LVN to RN Transition

    Campus Based - Website

    • State Board of Nursing approved
    • Active LVN license required
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA prerequisite
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • Comprehensive clinical training
    • Multiple semester progression
    • Extensive skill labs included
  • Associate - LVN to RN Transition Thirty Unit Option

    Campus Based - Website

    • 30 semester units required.
    • Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • California VN license needed.
    • Hands-on learning approach.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Prerequisites GPA 2.5+.
    • Role Transition course included.
    • Medical-surgical nursing skills.

San Jose, CA

Evergreen Valley College

  • Associate - LVN-RN Bridge

    Campus Based - Website

    • Active California LVN license required
    • Two program track options
    • Prerequisite GPA 2.5 minimum
    • TEAS exam version 7
    • Challenge exam included
    • 30-unit accelerated option available
    • Pathway to RN licensure

San Luis Obispo, CA

Cuesta College

  • Associate - Accelerated RN (LVN to RN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • One-year accelerated nursing pathway
    • Campus-based program in San Luis Obispo
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Competitive admissions process
    • Associate of Science in Nursing

San Marcos, CA

California State University-San Marcos

  • Bachelor's - LVN to BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • 3-year full-time program
    • 56 total nursing units
    • Clinical placements each semester
    • Cohort-based learning model
    • Fall semester entry
    • Requires valid CA LVN license
    • Day courses with varied clinicals

Palomar College

  • Associate - LVN to RN

    Campus Based - Website

    • 3-semester program length
    • Current LVN license required
    • Multi-criteria point selection
    • TEAS exam score 62%+
    • Minimum 6-month LVN experience
    • Space available basis admission
    • No grade lower than 'C'

Santa Ana, CA

Santa Ana College

  • Associate - LVN to RN

    Campus Based - Website

    • One-year RN academic program
    • Advanced placement for LVNs
    • 21.5 college credit units
    • California LVN license required
    • Role transition course mandatory

Santa Barbara, CA

Santa Barbara City College

  • Associate - LVN to ADN

    Campus Based - Website

    • Two LVN to RN pathway options
    • Fall semester admission only
    • Three semester program length
    • Valid LVN license required
    • Complete ADN program requirements
    • National licensing exam eligibility
    • Campus-based program

Santa Clarita, CA

College of the Canyons

  • Associate - LVN to RN Career Ladder

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program.
    • Starts Spring/Summer 2025.
    • Completion by Spring 2026.
    • Requires ATI TEAS test.
    • Mix of lectures and clinicals.
    • Associate Degree in Nursing Science.
    • Tentative course progression provided.
    • Status updates via COC email.

Santa Maria, CA

Allan Hancock College

  • Associate - Nursing: Registered Nursing (LVN to RN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Two-semester accelerated program
    • Fully California Board accredited
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • 26.5 total program units
    • Requires current LVN license
    • Prerequisites include science courses
    • Focuses on patient-centered care
    • Leadership and management training

Santa Rosa, CA

Santa Rosa Junior College

  • Associate - VN to ADN Bridge Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Full-time 4-semester program
    • 32 hours weekly instruction
    • Clinical rotations day/evening shifts
    • Pathway to BSN/MSN
    • Advanced education opportunities
    • Multiple clinical settings
    • Evidence-based practice focus
    • VN to ADN bridge available

Ventura, CA

Ventura College

  • Associate - Advanced Placement

    Campus Based - Website

    • Multiple advanced placement options
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
    • ATI TEAS exam needed
    • Options for LVNs, transfers
    • Military healthcare experience accepted

Victorville, CA

Victor Valley College

  • Associate - LVN to RN Entry

    Campus Based - Website

    • LVN to RN progression pathway
    • Credit by exam available
    • TEAS exam required
    • Military applicants welcome
    • Requires 2.5 GPA

Visalia, CA

College of the Sequoias

  • Associate - LVN to RN Bridge/Advanced Placement

    Campus Based - Website

    • LVN to RN Bridge pathway
    • Requires 2.5 cumulative GPA
    • ATI TEAS exam required
    • IV certification needed
    • Campus-based program
    • Multiple prerequisite courses
    • Background check required
    • CPR certification mandatory

Walnut, CA

Mt San Antonio College

  • Associate - Licensed Vocational Nurse to RN

    Campus Based - Website

    • Two-year nursing pathway
    • Builds on LVN experience
    • California Board of Nursing approved
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Clinical practice in local hospitals

Whittier, CA

Rio Hondo College

  • Associate - Non-graduate 30 Unit Option for LVN to RN

    Campus Based - Website

    • Three-semester nursing transition
    • California LVN license required
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • 2.5 GPA science prerequisite
    • ATI TEAS exam mandatory
    • Science courses within 7 years
    • Clinical facility requirements
    • CPR certification needed
  • Associate - LVN-ADN Program (Option #2)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Three-semester nursing program
    • For licensed vocational nurses
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • 2.5 GPA science requirement
    • Science courses within 7 years
    • ATI TEAS exam mandatory
    • Multiple general education paths
    • Clinical background check required

Woodland Hills, CA

Los Angeles Pierce College

  • Associate - LVN 30 Unit Option Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Alternative LVN to RN pathway
    • 17-unit specialized course sequence
    • Admission by lottery
    • Current LVN license required
    • Background check mandatory
  • Associate - Advanced Placement LVN to RN Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced nursing career pathway
    • Lottery-based admission process
    • 4-semester course sequence
    • Requires current LVN license
    • Prerequisite GPA 2.5 minimum
    • Pass ATI TEAS exam
    • Health requirements mandatory
    • Background check required

California LVN vs RN Salary Comparison By Area

Salary Comparison Tool

This tool will allow you to easily search and compare the average salaries of nurses for many cities and locations across the U.S. You can search by city and state. Salary data is provided through the BLS.

Select Career Type

Select State

Select City

The table below compares the annual salary of a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) to a registered nurse (RN), along with the percent increase that can be expected. The data was obtained from the Bureau of Labor Statistics for LVNs and RNs in California.

On average an RN in California earns $56,258, which is 17% more than the national average for registered nurses ($48,109).

City/AreaAvg LVN SalaryAvg RN Salary% Diff
Los Angeles, Long Beach, Anaheim - CA$54,000$99,93085.1%
San Francisco, Oakland, Hayward - CA$65,410$128,99097.2%
Riverside, San Bernardino, Ontario - CA$52,960$101,83092.3%
San Diego, Carlsbad - CA$56,820$98,44073.2%
Sacramento, , Roseville, , Arden, Arcade - CA$57,420$120,530109.9%
San Jose, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara - CA$63,650$128,610102.1%
Fresno - CA$51,250$96,90089.1%
Bakersfield - CA$55,230$92,11066.8%
Modesto - CA$54,820$106,04093.4%
Stockton, Lodi - CA$55,260$111,140101.1%
Oxnard, Thousand Oaks, Ventura - CA$52,620$92,48075.8%
Santa Rosa - CA$62,480$99,34059.0%
Santa Maria, Santa Barbara - CA$60,680$104,68072.5%
Vallejo, Fairfield - CA$61,540$115,90088.3%
Chico - CA$55,940$84,26050.6%
Salinas - CA$60,950$131,710116.1%
Visalia, Porterville - CA$46,460$89,08091.7%
Napa - CA$60,810$106,06074.4%
San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, Arroyo Grande - CA$55,020$103,88088.8%
Redding - CA$54,610$102,03086.8%
Santa Cruz, Watsonville - CA$59,300$127,440114.9%
El Centro - CA$49,140$88,67080.4%
Merced - CA$51,880$94,33081.8%
Hanford, Corcoran - CA$56,670$83,99048.2%

Table data taken from 2018 BLS https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291141.htm & https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes292061.htm