Crossett, Arkansas: A Flourishing Nursing Job Market Beckons Healthcare Professionals to Embrace Southern Charm and Community Wellness
Here in Crossett, Arkansas, we embody the spirit of Southern charm and community, all while fostering a vibrant nursing job market. Nestled in the heart of Ashley County, our small city features a population of approximately 5,000 folks who pride themselves on their close-knit atmosphere and support for local healthcare initiatives. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that registered nurses nationwide earn an average hourly wage of around $37.00, with the median annual salary at about $77,600. In Arkansas, the numbers are slightly lower, with average hourly wages of $29.60 and an annual median salary of approximately $61,600. Here in Crossett, we estimate nursing salaries range from about $27.00 to $31.00 per hour, translating to an annual salary between $56,000 and $64,000. This puts our city in a favorable position compared to surrounding areas, though just a step below the state averages, allowing comfortable living amidst our local culture and beautiful natural landscapes, such as the vibrant parks that envelop our city.
Crossett's nursing job market has seen resurgence in recent years, especially with an estimated growth in demand for new nurses projected at roughly 14% in the coming three to five years. With the current nursing workforce hovering around 320 professionals in the city, substantial opportunities are on the horizon to accommodate the rising healthcare needs of our community. The demand for travel nurses has accelerated, particularly during the summer months when seasonal healthcare needs peak; however, Crossett is not yet viewed as a major travel nursing hotspot. We have identified about 45 travel nursing positions available in the city; in contrast, nearby Pine Bluff and El Dorado boast more substantial nursing markets with greater job availability and diverse salaries around the state averages. Furthermore, Crossett houses vital healthcare facilities, notably the Ashley County Medical Center and various local clinics. The recent establishment of a new health clinic has added to the allure for job seekers. Nearby cities like Monticello and Camden provide robust competition, with travel jobs and per diem roles that are more prevalent due to larger populations and healthcare infrastructures.
Acknowledging the importance of healthcare, Crossett maintains several key healthcare facilities that cater to various specialties, such as general practice, pediatrics, and geriatrics. Our city has also seen investments through the expansion of local clinics and public health initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access to underserved populations. With a population growth rate of approximately 1% projected for the upcoming years, expectations for nursing roles are bright, fostering a supportive and engaged community of professionals. Lifestyle-wise, Crossett offers the warm hospitality of our Southern roots, outdoor activities like fishing and hiking in nearby wildlife reserves, and a rich cultural scene full of local events and festivals that bring the community together. As we embrace the evolving nursing landscape, I encourage both current and prospective nurses to explore job matches through NurseRecruiter, tap into local job opportunities, and continue to bolster the healthcare fruition of our beloved Crossett.
