Mount Vernon, Illinois Emerges as a Thriving Destination for Nurses: Competitive Salaries, Growing Opportunities, and a Vibrant Community Amidst Expanding Healthcare Demand
As a local resident of Mount Vernon, Illinois, I’ve watched our city transform into a vibrant hub for healthcare, significantly impacting the nursing job market. The allure of the Shawnee National Forest nearby and our rich history paired with a tight-knit community make Mount Vernon a unique place to live and work. For registered nurses in our area, the landscape offers an engaging mix of clinical opportunities, with an average annual salary ranging from $55,000 to $68,000, while the mean hourly wage is approximately $25.29, according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. In comparison, Illinois' average salary for nurses is about $71,500, and the national average is $78,000. Although these numbers may seem lower than larger metropolitan areas, the cost of living here allows for a comfortable lifestyle. Being in proximity to larger cities like St. Louis, Missouri, and Nashville, Tennessee, we attract travel nurses as well, creating a dynamic job market that is both welcoming and competitive.
In the next few years, the need for nurses in Mount Vernon is anticipated to grow significantly, as projections indicate that our city will require approximately 200 new nursing professionals to fill vacancies and meet the increasing demand for healthcare services. Presently, with about 800 nurses employed in our community, the market is healthy, yet there is a persistent need for skilled travel nurses, especially during peak seasons such as summer and flu season when patient volumes tend to surge. The local healthcare infrastructure is robust, featuring two major hospitals, several urgent care facilities, and numerous clinics, all of which keep the local job market active. When comparing our job landscape with nearby cities like Carbondale and Centralia, Mount Vernon stands out with slightly higher average salaries and more prevalent per diem nursing opportunities. While Carbondale’s market tilts toward academic positions with its university affiliation, Mount Vernon focuses on community healthcare, which supports a different lifestyle and work environment.
In terms of healthcare facilities, Mount Vernon boasts the presence of several key players in the industry, such as SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital, which significantly contributes to the demand for various nursing specialties. Recent investments in healthcare technology and infrastructure have maximized patient care and improved working conditions for nurses, further enhancing our local market. With a population of around 15,000, and projections indicating stable growth, we embody a community that values quality healthcare and support for its residents. Public health initiatives, such as wellness programs and preventive care initiatives, underscore the commitment to health in our area. I invite my fellow nursing professionals to explore opportunities in Mount Vernon, whether you’re a current resident or considering relocating. With platforms like NurseRecruiter, local job matches are just a click away, and employers in our area can easily find dedicated local candidates to meet our community's healthcare needs. Let's continue to uplift our healthcare environment together, and draw in the talent that can help shape the future of nursing in Mount Vernon.
