Nursing Careers Flourish in North Chicago

Here in North Chicago, Illinois, we find ourselves in a bustling hub of healthcare opportunity. Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan and just a stone’s throw from the vibrant city of Chicago, North Chicago is home to a variety of healthcare facilities that make our nursing job market both dynamic and promising. The average salary range for nurses in our city is approximately $64,000 to $78,000 annually, translating to an hourly rate between $31 and $38. This can be contrasted with the state average in Illinois of around $71,000 and the national average, which hovers around $77,000. North Chicago offers a unique blend of suburban charm with access to urban amenities, making it an attractive place for both local nurses and travel nurses looking for diverse experiences. With landmarks like the Great Lakes Naval Station and the lactose-free Lake County Forest Preserves nearby, our city radiates community spirit and a commitment to quality healthcare.

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

The nursing job market in North Chicago is robust and on an upward trajectory. NurseRecruiter estimates that our community will see a demand for over 300 new nurses in the next five years driven by population growth and the need for ongoing healthcare services. Currently, there are roughly 1,200 registered nurses employed across our local hospitals and clinics. In terms of travel nursing, North Chicago does seem to have a consistent demand, particularly during the summer months when tourism peaks and the need for temporary staffing increases. Per diem nursing also thrives here, with opportunities available across multiple healthcare facilities, including Advocate Health, NorthShore University HealthSystem, and the aforementioned Great Lakes Naval Base. When we compare our situation to neighboring cities like Waukegan, which offers similar job opportunities but tends to have lower salary ranges due to a larger population of healthcare workers, we recognize our city’s prosperity in the nursing job market. While Chicago tends to overshadow us with its numerous healthcare institutions, our smaller city vibe allows for a closer community of nurses.

Our healthcare infrastructure is continually evolving, with several hospitals, outpatient clinics, and specialized care facilities driving the need for nurses in North Chicago. There’s an ongoing commitment to enhance healthcare delivery, with recent investments in facility renovations and new technology to support advanced nursing practices. With a population of approximately 31,000 and a projected growth rate of around 2.5% over the next five years, our community is not only thriving—but so is the commitment to health and wellness among residents. Public health initiatives are also flourishing, focusing on preventive care, mental health resources, and vaccination programs, all of which expand the roles and responsibilities of nurses in our city. As healthcare professionals, we have a unique opportunity to not only influence patient care but also help shape a healthier community. For fellow nurses—whether you’re already living here or considering making the move—NurseRecruiter is an invaluable resource for job opportunities. Employers in North Chicago can also utilize NurseRecruiter to connect with local talent, ensuring that we continue to grow and elevate the standards of healthcare in our city.