Nurse the Heart of Blackfoot's Community

Here in Blackfoot, Idaho, the spirit of our small town is woven together with a rich sense of community and a growing demand for healthcare workers. Known for its picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and a welcoming atmosphere, Blackfoot offers a nursing job market that's flourishing amidst Idaho's broader healthcare landscape. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses in Idaho earn an average annual salary of about $71,070, with hourly wages hovering around $34.13. In Blackfoot, with our smaller catchment area and specific healthcare needs, nursing salaries range from $29.50 to $38.50 per hour, translating to annual earnings between $61,000 and $80,000 depending on experience and specialization. Opposed to major cities like Boise, where salaries can exceed $83,000 annually, Blackfoot combines a lower cost of living with competitive wages, making it an attractive option for both local nursing professionals and prospective travel nurses looking for adventure in a vibrant community.

Sometimes smaller communities offer the best nursing experience. Blackfoot proved that to me.

The nursing job market here reflects a robust growth trend, with a projected need for nearly 150 new nurses in the next five years, driven by a rapidly aging population and increasing demand for healthcare services. Currently, our community is served by approximately 300 registered nurses, a number that aligns with Blackfoot’s population of just over 11,000. This translates to a nurse-to-resident ratio that's favorable compared to larger urban centers, allowing for a more personalized touch in patient care. Travel nursing has been gaining traction, especially during the winter months when seasonal illnesses rise, although the demand for travel nurses isn't as pronounced here as in larger metropolitan areas. Per diem nursing opportunities, however, are abundant, with an estimated 50-70 jobs available weekly, as healthcare facilities in Blackfoot look to manage fluctuating staffing needs. Major employers in the area include Bingham Memorial Hospital and several clinics that cater to both urgent and ongoing care, making them reliable hubs for employment. When compared to nearby Idaho Falls, where salaries and demands are slightly higher due to a larger healthcare network, Blackfoot offers a unique blend of lifestyle, community involvement, and professional opportunities that shouldn’t be overlooked.

As Blackfoot invests in healthcare infrastructure with plans for expansions at Bingham Memorial Hospital and the establishment of new specialty clinics, our nursing landscape is set to flourish. With several healthcare facilities available, including outpatient clinics specializing in pediatrics and geriatric care, we see a plethora of career pathways for nurses with various specialties. Public health initiatives here have also been remarkable, with programs focusing on nutrition, immunization, and preventative health that encourage engagement among nursing professionals. Living in Blackfoot means being part of a tight-knit community that values its health and well-being, providing a backdrop for both professional satisfaction and a fulfilling lifestyle. NurseRecruiter estimates a continued surge in employment opportunities in both nursing and allied health roles as our population grows, reflecting Idaho’s overall health ambition. By signing up for NurseRecruiter, both job seekers and employers can find local matches that resonate with our community values, driving forward the standard of care we pride ourselves on here in Blackfoot.