Nursing Careers by the Ventura Waves

Here in Ventura, California, we are lucky to call this coastal community home, steeped in vibrant culture and breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean. Our nursing job market reflects the dynamic nature of our city, which boasts a blend of healthcare opportunities from bustling hospitals to serene rehabilitation centers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual salary for registered nurses in California hovers around $102,700, while the national average is approximately $79,000. In Ventura, the estimated nursing salary averages between $36 to $48 per hour, or about $75,000 to $100,000 annually, placing us just slightly above the state average due to our unique location, climate, and demand for healthcare services. We enjoy a lifestyle enriched by our proximity to both natural beauty and cultural amenities—our beaches, parks, and local eateries enhance not only our personal lives but also our community’s well-being.

I came to Ventura not knowing what to expect. Turns out, it was the right move.

The nursing job market in Ventura shows promising trends, with growing demand anticipated over the next few years. NurseRecruiter estimates that we will need an additional 300 to 400 new nurses in the Ventura area within the next five years, spurred by the increasing population and aging demographics in our region. Currently, approximately 4,500 nurses serve our community, reflecting a stable workforce that caters to our 110,000 residents. Travel nursing opportunities are also present here, with a peak in demand typically seen during the summer months when tourist influx can strain our healthcare resources. Per diem nursing positions offer flexible options for many healthcare professionals, with roughly 500 active per diem roles to cover our various health facilities. When we compare ourselves to nearby Oxnard, Camarillo, and Thousand Oaks, we observe slight variations in job opportunities and salary ranges—Oxnard offers an average salary closer to $75,000, while Thousand Oaks nurses often find salaries above $100,000, reflecting higher costs of living and employer expectations.

Ventura is home to several key healthcare facilities, including Community Memorial Hospital, Ventura County Medical Center, and a multitude of specialty clinics that provide a broad spectrum of nursing opportunities—from critical care to pediatrics and geriatrics. Recent investments in telehealth and outpatient services indicate a shift towards expanding our healthcare infrastructure to meet modern demands, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of healthcare delivery in the region. As our population grows—projected to increase to approximately 120,000 by 2030, according to the California Department of Finance—we must prioritize accessibility and innovation in healthcare services. Our spirited community frequently engages in public health initiatives that promote wellness and preventive care, fostering a collaborative environment among nursing professionals. I encourage all local nurses and prospective job seekers to explore opportunities through NurseRecruiter, where job matches await us—both from employers seeking talent and nurses eager for meaningful roles in our beloved city.