Benton Arkansas: A Rising Nursing Hub Offering Competitive Salaries and Community-Centric Healthcare Opportunities
Nestled in the beautiful landscapes of Arkansas, Benton is not just a picturesque city with charming parks and a close-knit community; it’s also becoming an increasingly important hub for nursing professionals. Here in Benton, we enjoy a dynamic nursing job market that reflects both local needs and broader national trends. Currently, nurses in our city can expect to earn an average hourly wage ranging from $27.91 to $34.35, translating to annual salaries between approximately $58,000 and $71,000, which is quite competitive compared to the national average of $38.25 per hour or about $79,500 annually. The healthcare scene here is supported by notable landmarks such as the Saline Memorial Hospital and various outpatient clinics, showcasing the city’s commitment to health and wellness, all while being surrounded by natural beauty and a welcoming atmosphere.
The nursing job market in Benton boasts a robust mix of opportunity and competition, with a projected increase in the demand for nurses driven by our growing population of around 38,000 residents. We estimate that Benton currently has over 1,000 nurses actively working across various facilities and expect to need an additional 200-300 new nurses in the next five years to meet the healthcare needs of our community. In terms of travel nursing, Benton might not be the first city that comes to mind, yet it offers attractive short-term positions, particularly during the busy summer months when tourism peaks and healthcare demand increases. Per diem nursing also shows promise, with many local healthcare facilities seeking flexibility to meet patient needs. Our closest neighbors, like Little Rock and Bryant, offer larger markets, yet they often come with more competition and slightly higher living costs. Contrasting Benton with Little Rock, where nurses average around $31.77 per hour, the difference in salary remains competitive, particularly when factoring in Benton’s charming lifestyle and lower cost of living.
In Benton, healthcare infrastructure is equally impressive, with diverse facilities offering various specialties, from pediatrics to geriatrics. As the city grows—projected to reach 42,000 by 2030—it’s seeing thrilling developments, including proposed expansions at major hospitals and a rising interest in specialty clinics focusing on outpatient care. The local culture is vibrant, filled with festivals, outdoor activities, and an enriching sense of community, making it an ideal location for nursing professionals to live and work. Beyond just providing healthcare, this city promotes public health initiatives aimed at improving overall wellness, reflecting the active role nurses play in our communities. For those considering a nursing career or relocation, look no further than Benton—this welcoming haven for healthcare professionals promises both professional fulfillment and a high quality of life. I invite my fellow nurses, current and prospective, to explore opportunities at NurseRecruiter, where you can find local job matches tailored to your expertise while employers can post jobs to connect with the wealth of talent right here in our city.
