Jacksonville's Thriving Nursing Job Market: Competitive Salaries and Growing Opportunities Amidst a Vibrant Coastal Lifestyle
Here in Jacksonville, Florida, we boast a vibrant nursing job market set against the backdrop of our sun-soaked beaches and bustling urban centers. Known for our warm climate and friendly atmosphere, Jacksonville offers a diverse culture coupled with an array of healthcare opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses in Florida earn an average annual salary of approximately $68,610, equating to around $32.94 per hour. However, here in Jacksonville, those numbers tend to skew slightly higher, with local averages ranging from $70,000 to $80,000 annually depending on the specialty and experience level. Compared to the national average of about $77,600 per year, our city stands out within the state and amongst larger healthcare markets, particularly when compared to Miami's saturated and competitive nursing environment.
The job market for nurses in Jacksonville is robust, driven by a healthy demand forecast over the next several years. NurseRecruiter estimates that our city will require approximately 3,000 new nurses over the next five years to meet the growing healthcare needs, which includes our existing workforce of roughly 20,000. This demand helps explain the rise in travel nursing contracts, particularly during the peak seasons of winter and spring, with travel nurse positions available in abundance across our many hospitals and clinics. With prominent employers like Baptist Health, UF Health, and Ascension-St. Vincent’s, the landscape is ripe for both full-time and per diem nursing opportunities. In comparison, cities like Orlando and Tampa also see a similar demand for nurses but often offer lower salary ranges, primarily due to higher living costs and increased competition for local jobs.
Jacksonville’s healthcare infrastructure is continuously evolving, supported by recent investments in both large hospitals and community clinics. We're fortunate to host a blend of specialized facilities including pediatric, cardiology, and trauma centers which keep our nursing workforce in high demand. As of now, the city accommodates around 30 major hospitals and numerous outpatient facilities, which is essential for maintaining the quality of care in our growing population of over 900,000 residents. Public health initiatives, such as our recent focus on mental health resources following the pandemic, also highlight the expanding roles for nurses in our community. Here, our local lifestyle reflects Southern warmth, with abundant parks, cultural festivals, and a close-knit community appeal. With promising opportunities burgeoning in the nursing field, we invite both our established professionals and newcomers to look at the job opportunities available via NurseRecruiter, providing a direct link to our city's vibrant healthcare community. Employers can also utilize NurseRecruiter to find exceptional local talent to fill their nursing roles.
