Tampa Nurses: Brightening Up the Bay Area

Here in Tampa, Florida, we take great pride in our vibrant culture, beautiful weather, and a diverse job market that includes a robust nursing community. The nursing job market in our city is a promising one, with average registered nurse salaries hovering between $28.18 and $38.63 per hour, translating to annual earnings ranging from $58,694 to $80,434, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In comparison, the state of Florida shows a mean hourly wage of approximately $30.97 and a yearly salary of around $64,400, while the national averages sit a bit higher at around $36.50 per hour and $76,300 annually. As a local resident, I've witnessed the impact of our city’s unique blend of suburban charm and urban amenities, from our beautiful waterfront parks and the iconic Tampa Bay Area to the numerous healthcare facilities that shape our professional landscape. Tampa not only stands out for its sunny beaches and thrilling sports scene but is also an attractive destination for travel nurses seeking adventure and opportunity.

The current nursing job market here is expanding at a remarkable rate, driven by an increasing local population and growing healthcare demands. Over the next 5 years, NurseRecruiter estimates that Tampa will need approximately 2,500 new nurses to meet healthcare demands, reflecting a broader trend across Florida. We currently have around 12,000 registered nurses employed in the city, which gives us a good ratio of healthcare professionals to our population of approximately 400,000 people. Notably, travel nursing jobs are on the rise, especially during the winter season when many individuals flock to Florida for its warm climate. The per diem nursing market also presents a viable option for flexible work arrangements, with many facilities accommodating the growing demand for short-term staffing solutions due to variable patient volumes. Our key healthcare employers include Tampa General Hospital, AdventHealth Tampa, and various clinics and outpatient centers throughout the region. When we compare Tampa to nearby cities like St. Petersburg and Clearwater, we find a slightly more active job market and higher pay, which indeed adds an attractive aspect for nursing professionals considering relocation to our burgeoning city.

Tampa's healthcare infrastructure is solid and continually improving, with numerous hospitals, outpatient facilities, and specialty clinics spread throughout the area. We currently boast more than 20 major healthcare facilities that hire nurses specializing in various fields, from pediatrics to critical care. There are growing investments in our healthcare system, particularly alongside the expansion of facilities to accommodate our aging population and those in need of specialized care. On the lifestyle front, we enjoy a rich cultural scene, from the historic Ybor City with its vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary offerings to the arts and community events held throughout the year. With an estimated population growth rate in Tampa of about 1.5% annually, we can expect a continual rise in healthcare needs and employment opportunities. Public health initiatives like health fairs and vaccination drives help bolster the resources available for nurses. As I reflect on our city’s appeal as both a nursing hub and a warm, welcoming community, I encourage my fellow nursing professionals to explore opportunities here. Whether you're looking for stable employment or a travel nursing adventure, sign up to NurseRecruiter to find local job matches or see what our vibrant city has to offer! Employers, you too can leverage NurseRecruiter to post job openings and connect with talented local candidates eager to join our healthcare team.