Great Lakes, Illinois: A Thriving Hub for Nursing Professionals in a Vibrant Community by Lake Michigan
As a long-time resident of Great Lakes, Illinois, I have witnessed a unique blend of vibrant community spirit and a robust nursing job market fueled by our strategic location and healthcare infrastructure. Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan, Great Lakes serves as a tranquil yet bustling hub for both healthcare professionals and families alike. The average salary for registered nurses here ranges from around $27.00 to $32.50 per hour, translating to an annual salary between approximately $56,160 and $67,760. These figures align closely with the Illinois average, which stands at about $30.88 per hour and $64,195 annually, while the national average is around $35.00 an hour and $72,180 yearly according to recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. With the stunning backdrop of the Naval Station Great Lakes and the nearby city of Waukegan, we enjoy a blend of rich cultural heritage, waterfront parks, and a strong sense of community, making it an appealing place for nursing professionals to thrive.
The current nursing job market in Great Lakes is promising, with an estimated 800 registered nurses currently employed, reflecting our commitment to excellent healthcare services in the area. NurseRecruiter estimates that we'll need around 200 new nurses over the next five years, due in part to increasing population density and aging demographics. Travel nursing also presents an attractive option in our city, thanks to the demand for short-term staffing solutions at our local medical facilities. While travel nursing jobs fluctuate based on hospital needs, the peak season tends to coincide with tourist influx during the summer months. Per diem nursing jobs provide additional flexibility to professionals, forming a sizeable part of our nursing landscape. Compared to nearby cities like Waukegan, which enjoys a slightly lower average salary for nurses and a slightly higher popularity for travel nursing, Great Lakes stands out with its unique charm and lifestyle that nurtures healthcare providers. With major employers such as the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center and Advocate Condell Medical Center, job opportunities abound in our area.
Great Lakes boasts a solid healthcare infrastructure with numerous healthcare facilities that cater to various specialties, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, and emergency care, making it a versatile environment for healthcare professionals. Recent investments in hospital renovations and new outpatient services signal a growing demand for nursing roles that address both population needs and evolving healthcare practices. Our community is characterized by a close-knit feel, with local parks, festivals, and a thriving arts scene contributing to our quality of life. Great Lakes, with a population of around 8,000 and a projected growth rate in the coming years, is not just a place to work but a place to call home, filled with the values of service and collaboration. In addition to the commitment to public health initiatives addressing vaccination campaigns and health education programs, the allure of Great Lakes continues to make it an attractive choice for current and prospective nursing professionals. So, to my fellow nurses looking to dive into our vibrant local market or explore travel opportunities, I urge you to sign up for NurseRecruiter to discover great job matches in our beautiful city, where community and career merge seamlessly.
