Peoria, Illinois: A Thriving Hub for Nursing Careers with Competitive Salaries, Growing Demand, and a Rich Community Lifestyle
Nestled in the heart of Illinois, Peoria boasts a rich history and vibrant community, characterized by its historic districts, picturesque riverfront, and a diverse cultural scene that includes the Peoria Art Guild and the Peoria Symphony Orchestra. Here in Peoria, our nursing job market stands out, offering competitive salaries and a plethora of opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2022, the mean annual salary for registered nurses nationwide was approximately $77,600, while the mean for Illinois sits slightly lower at around $76,920. In Peoria, nursing salaries are projected to range between $65,000 and $85,000 annually, depending on experience and specialty—an enticing figure, especially when compared to the Midwest region and spots like Chicago, where costs of living and salaries may contrast starkly with our more accessible lifestyle.
As we look at the current landscape of nursing positions in Peoria, the market reveals an ongoing demand for healthcare professionals. NurseRecruiter estimates that we will need approximately 600 new nurses in the next five years to keep pace with the growing population and healthcare demands within our city, which has a population of roughly 113,000. With an existing workforce of around 1,800 nurses, the supply side translates to a relatively stable job market. The demand for per diem and travel nursing jobs is also noteworthy; Peoria does experience seasonal influxes, particularly during the winter months when hospitals prepare for flu-related admissions. We also house major healthcare facilities, including OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, UnityPoint Health, and several specialties in outpatient clinics. When compared to nearby cities like Bloomington and Galesburg, Peoria shines with more job openings due to our larger healthcare system, though the salary range remains competitive regionally.
Peoria is not only home to robust healthcare facilities but also a vibrant local lifestyle. With its reputation for friendliness and community engagement, residents can enjoy year-round activities from farmer's markets to the annual International Blues & Heritage Festival. Recent investments in healthcare infrastructure, like expansions at OSF and community health initiatives aimed at combating chronic diseases, underscore our commitment to improving public health. As we project a steady growth rate in population, currently at about 0.5% annually, the nursing workforce must adapt to meet this local demand. Public health initiatives focusing on preventative care and wellness are changing the landscape of nursing roles here. If you're a nursing professional currently working in Peoria or considering our charming city, I encourage you to explore job opportunities through NurseRecruiter, where employers can connect with local talent to build a robust community of committed caregivers.
