Nurse Your Adventure in Ketchum, Idaho!

Nestled in the picturesque Wood River Valley, Ketchum, Idaho is not just a hub for avid skiers and outdoor enthusiasts; it is also carving out a significant niche in the nursing job market. Here in Ketchum, we enjoy breathtaking views of the Sawtooth Mountains and a closely-knit community that values health and wellness. The nursing salaries in our charming town range from approximately $26.00 to $36.50 per hour, translating into annual salaries of around $54,000 to $76,000. Comparatively, the state of Idaho reports nurses making between $25.00 and $38.00 per hour (Bureau of Labor Statistics December 2020), while the national averages hover around $34.50 per hour. While we benefit from the serenity of small-town life, our healthcare salaries are in line with some larger urban areas, making nursing careers here both rewarding and competitive.

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

As we look closer at the current job market, Ketchum’s nursing workforce remains robust, yet it needs a significant influx of new talent. NurseRecruiter estimates that in the next five years, approximately 50 to 70 new nurses will be needed to keep pace with both the growing population and the increasing demand for healthcare services. Currently, Ketchum boasts around 200 employed nurses across various specialty areas, including critical care and outpatient services. Our healthcare facilities include prominent employers like St. Luke’s Wood River Medical Center, which offers a range of opportunities for full-time, per diem, and travel nursing positions. For those considering the surrounding area, cities like Hailey and Sun Valley present additional opportunities; nurses there are seeing similar pay scales, with Hailey offering a slightly more affordable living, while Sun Valley’s demand peaks during ski season, heightening the need for travel nurses. Overall, the area maintains a competitive edge compared with larger towns like Boise, focusing heavily on lifestyle and work-life balance while providing ample job opportunities.

Our healthcare infrastructure is supported by a blend of local hospitals, clinics, and specialized care facilities that ensure top-notch services for our residents. With ongoing investments in healthcare developments, including new outpatient clinics and community health initiatives, the outlook remains bright for nursing professionals. The local culture is one that embraces health, wellness, and outdoor adventure, making Ketchum an attractive destination not just for living but for establishing a meaningful nursing career. The population of Ketchum hovers around 2,500, growing steadily each year, as more individuals are drawn to our scenic surroundings and strong community spirit. Public health programs targeted at wellness, healthcare accessibility, and chronic disease management focus our nursing roles on proactive patient care, aligning with our community's values. Here in Ketchum, we invite both current and prospective nurses to join us in shaping the future of healthcare in our beloved town, and I encourage you to explore opportunities through NurseRecruiter, whether you’re looking to post openings or apply for jobs in this thriving nursing landscape.