Best LPN Programs in Chattanooga 2026

The healthcare landscape in Chattanooga, Tennessee, presents a growing demand for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), fueled by an aging population and the expansion of local healthcare facilities. LPNs in the city can expect competitive salaries, with average annual earnings typically ranging from $44,790 to $57,320, coupled with a lower cost of living compared to many other major cities. This favorable environment creates abundant opportunities for professional growth and diverse career paths.

LPNs in Chattanooga can find employment across a wide spectrum of healthcare settings, offering roles that cater to various specialties and interests. Common facilities hiring LPNs include:

• Hospitals:Major healthcare systems often have roles in departments such as Medical-Surgical and Oncology.
• Nursing Homes and Long-Term Care Facilities:Essential for providing continuous care to residents.
• Assisted Living and Senior Living Facilities:Opportunities within communities that include memory care services.
• Home Health Agencies:Providing direct patient care in private residences, including specialized care for pediatric and adult patients.
• Private Practices and Clinics:Roles in settings like integrative medicine clinics, family practices, and occupational health.
• Rehabilitation Centers:Facilities focused on physical therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral health.
• Correctional and Psychiatric Facilities:Opportunities for LPNs in specialized care environments.
• Plasma Donation Centers:Such as BioLife, employing LPNs as Medical Support Specialists.

Chattanooga is home to several prominent healthcare systems that are significant employers of LPNs, contributing to the city’s robust medical infrastructure.

• Erlanger Health System:One of the largest healthcare employers in the region, encompassing Erlanger Medical Center and Erlanger Behavioral Health Hospital.
• CHI Memorial:A regional leader known for its comprehensive heart, cancer, and orthopedic care services.
• Parkridge Health System:An affiliate of HCA Healthcare, operating multiple facilities including Parkridge Medical Center, Parkridge East Hospital, and Parkridge Valley Hospital.

Beyond these major systems, numerous other facilities and networks play an important role in LPN employment in Chattanooga. These include:

• Assisted Living and Senior Care:Such as Charter Senior Living of Chattanooga, Rockbridge Oaks, Health Center at Standifer Place, Woodland Terrace Care and Rehab, Life Care Center of Red Bank, Life Care Center of East Ridge, and NHC Healthcare.
• Home Health and Staffing Agencies:Including Maxim Healthcare Services (also known as Amergis Staffing), Suncrest Pediatric Private Duty, and AccentCare.
• Specialized Clinics:Like the Volunteer Comprehensive Treatment Center and Chattanooga Family Practice.
• Rehabilitation Hospitals:Such as Siskin Hospital for Physical Rehabilitation and Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Chattanooga.

The job outlook for healthcare occupations statewide in Tennessee is strong, with projected growth much faster than the average for all occupations, largely driven by an aging population. For those pursuing or maintaining their LPN credentials, the Tennessee Board of Nursing provides comprehensive information on licensure requirements for practical nurses. Additionally, the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce offers valuable resources for job seekers and employers in the healthcare sector.