Mattoon, Illinois: A Thriving Hub for Nursing Professionals with Competitive Salaries, Promising Job Growth, and Community-Centric Opportunities in Healthcare
Here in Mattoon, Illinois, our small but spirited city is a wonderful place for nursing professionals. Nestled in the heart of Coles County and known for its friendly community vibe and local festivals, Mattoon boasts a diverse healthcare landscape that facilitates ample opportunities for nurses. The average hourly wage for registered nurses in the region hovers around $30.88, translating to approximately $64,195 annually, compared to the Illinois average of about $37.78 per hour or $78,580 yearly, and the national average of $37.14 per hour or $77,290 annually, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Our city is characterized by its charming downtown adorned with historic buildings and lush parks, making it an attractive location for both personal and professional life. As we look towards nearby cities like Charleston and Effingham, which have their own growing healthcare markets, Mattoon holds a unique position as a welcoming locale with a more intimate atmosphere.
The nursing job market in Mattoon continues showing promise, with a projected need for approximately 250 new nursing professionals over the next five years due to retirements and community growth. It's estimated that around 1,200 nurses are currently employed in our city, supporting our six primary healthcare facilities, including Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center, a critical employer for nurses. The demand for travel nurses does experience seasonal upticks during the summer months when additional staffing is often needed. In contrast, per diem nursing opportunities are also available but tend to attract a smaller share of nurses, typically filling in gaps left by weekend schedules and handling unexpected increases in patient loads. When looking to the surrounding areas, Charleston offers slightly higher average salaries, while Effingham touts a larger healthcare presence, presenting possibilities for our local nurses to consider when seeking job opportunities.
Our healthcare infrastructure in Mattoon reflects both the need for a broad range of nursing specialties and the advantages of working in a close-knit community. We have numerous clinics, home health agencies, and an outpatient surgery center that require skilled nurses, particularly in areas such as geriatrics and pediatrics. Recent investments in community health initiatives emphasize wellness programs and preventive care, which are expected to expand the roles of nurses within the city. As we continue to grow—our population of around 18,100 is projected to remain stable—our commitment to quality healthcare remains strong. Public health initiatives focusing on mental health and substance abuse have also led to increased nursing roles in these crucial areas. Overall, our enriching lifestyle reflects a supportive community ethos that celebrates local culture and pride, allowing nursing professionals to find meaningful work and life balance. For current or aspiring nurses, signing up for NurseRecruiter is a great way to explore job opportunities that align with our vibrant community's needs, while employers can take advantage of this platform to connect with local candidates eager to shape our city's healthcare future.
