Nursing Careers as Bright as Lakewood's Sun

Nestled against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Lakewood, Colorado, is a vibrant city that has quickly become an attractive spot for nursing professionals. With a stunning backdrop of sweeping mountain vistas and an active lifestyle that emphasizes outdoor activities, our city blends a suburban feel with a strong sense of community. The nursing job market here reflects not only the health needs of our growing population but also the high quality of life that draws many to our blend of urban conveniences and natural beauty. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses nationwide enjoy average annual salaries of around $80,010, while Colorado offers a competitive average of approximately $76,130. Here in Lakewood, we estimate nursing salaries can range from $70,000 to $85,000, depending on experience and specialty, offering a compelling income paired with low living costs compared to major cities like Denver just a short drive away.

Don't overlook Lakewood. I almost did, and I'm glad I gave it a chance.

The nursing job market in Lakewood is thriving, reflective of the city's steady population growth and the increasing healthcare demands of our community. Currently, NurseRecruiter estimates over 3,500 nurses are actively employed in Lakewood, and projections suggest that an additional 1,200 nurses will be needed in the next five years to meet the growing demand—a robust growth rate fueled by both our aging population and advances in healthcare technology. The city hosts notable healthcare institutions such as Lutheran Medical Center and the St. Anthony Hospital, making it an essential hub for various nursing specialties. Travel nursing opportunities are also gaining traction here, particularly during peak seasons like summer, when demand rises for temporary healthcare coverage. Compared with nearby cities such as Westminster and Aurora, Lakewood offers a slightly higher salary range along with a more laid-back lifestyle that embraces nature, making it a desirable destination for both local and traveling nurses.

As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, Lakewood is investing in expanding its healthcare infrastructure, including new clinics and urgent care centers to better serve our community. There are over 10 major hospitals and numerous specialty clinics in the area, providing a diverse array of nursing opportunities in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, and emergency care. From our community events to hiking trails and local breweries, Lakewood's charm lies not just in our professional opportunities but also in the rich experiences we share as residents. With a population nearing 160,000 and forecasts for steady growth, Lakewood is set to maintain its appeal as a nursing hotspot. Here in our city, public health initiatives are underway to address health disparities and improve access to care, making nursing roles vital to our community’s well-being. For fellow nursing professionals looking for fresh opportunities, I encourage you to explore what Lakewood has to offer by signing up for NurseRecruiter to discover local job matches that align with your career aspirations. Employers can also utilize NurseRecruiter to connect with dedicated local candidates eager to make a difference in our healthcare landscape.