Caring Hearts Thriving in Highland's Healthcare

Nestled in the charming landscape of southern Illinois, Highland is more than just a picturesque small town—it's a burgeoning hub for nursing professionals. Known for its friendly atmosphere and vibrant community, Highland boasts an array of healthcare facilities that are crucial to the town’s economy. Here, we find ourselves in a unique position as both a local and a healthcare professional; the job market specifically for nursing holds considerable promise. The average salary for nurses in Highland falls between $26.83 hourly and $32.72 hourly, aligning reasonably with state averages that hover around $30.00. Comparatively, the national mean hourly wage stands at approximately $36.32. Such figures reflect the rich tapestry of our local healthcare community, juxtaposed against state and national trends, as Highland maintains a vital role within the healthcare sector of Illinois.

The pace in Highland lets me focus on what matters—my patients and my growth.

Diving deeper into the job market, we can glean that Highland’s nursing landscape is quite robust, spurred by the increasing demand for healthcare services. NurseRecruiter estimates suggest that there will be approximately 350 new nursing roles created in the next five years alone, especially considering the rate of retiring nurses. Currently, the city is home to roughly 1,200 active nurses, yet the growing population demands even more. With two prominent hospitals and numerous clinics, including dialysis centers and specialized health practices, Highland offers a wealth of opportunities. Neighboring cities such as Collinsville and Belleville also present a different dynamic; while salaries may slightly exceed Highland’s—averaging closer to $35.00—our strong community ties and lower cost of living make Highland an attractive destination for nurses seeking stability. Travel nursing is not a prominent trend here, however, and per diem opportunities are available but limited, particularly influenced by our smaller urban setting.

In terms of healthcare infrastructure, Highland is well-equipped with facilities that cater to a range of specialties, including pediatrics, oncology, and geriatrics. Recent investments in our local hospitals have been made to enhance their capacity and service offerings, which promises a continued demand for specialized nursing roles in the upcoming years. As our city grows, the sense of community fosters a supportive environment for both residents and healthcare workers alike; our quaint downtown is punctuated by local festivals, parks, and a shared commitment to health initiatives such as the Highland Community Health Program, which has engaged our nurses in various outreach activities. With a population of approximately 9,000 and projections indicating steady growth, Highland presents an inviting atmosphere for current and prospective nursing professionals. For those looking to explore career opportunities or for employers aiming to connect with qualified candidates, NurseRecruiter serves as an invaluable resource for paving new paths in the Highland nursing job market.