Waukegan, Illinois: A Thriving Nursing Career Oasis on the Shores of Lake Michigan with Competitive Salaries and Expanding Opportunities
Nestled along the scenic shores of Lake Michigan, Waukegan, Illinois, is a vibrant city that serves as a hub for healthcare professionals seeking fulfilling nursing careers. With its picturesque waterfront and a rich tapestry of culture and community, Waukegan offers both local nurses and prospective travel nurses an enticing job market. According to recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for nurses in Illinois hovers around $76,700, translating to about $36.83 per hour. However, here in Waukegan, nursing salaries trend slightly higher due to the increasing demand driven by nearby metropolitan areas like Chicago. NurseRecruiter estimates that registered nurses can expect to earn between $77,000 and $82,000 annually in our city. Beyond the statistics, Waukegan boasts attractions such as the historic Genesee Theatre and scenic waterfront parks, adding charm to the professional landscape.
The nursing job market in Waukegan reflects both robust growth and resilience. Current estimates suggest that there are approximately 1,400 registered nurses actively working in our city, with an anticipated need for around 200 new nurses over the next five years due to population growth and healthcare expansions. Additionally, travel nursing opportunities are vibrant, particularly during the summer months when the influx of tourists demands more healthcare staffing. Compared to nearby cities like North Chicago and Gurnee, Waukegan stands out with a higher concentration of major healthcare facilities, including the well-respected Vista Medical Center and the NorthShore University HealthSystem's clinic. Here, the per diem nursing market is thriving as well, driven by both the healthcare facilities’ fluctuating needs and the lifestyle flexibility sought by many nurses. While North Chicago offers similar pay scales, Waukegan captures a distinct identity, balancing a small-town feel with urban accessibility.
In terms of healthcare infrastructure, Waukegan hosts over a dozen healthcare facilities that cater to a diverse range of specialties, from pediatrics to geriatrics. Recent investments in the local health system, including expansions and technology upgrades, point to a positive trend for nursing roles. Moreover, our community thrives on local culture, with events and attractions like the Waukegan Harbor and the annual Waukegan Art Walk enhancing the quality of life for residents. With a population of roughly 88,000, Waukegan is on a steady growth trajectory, fostering new public health initiatives such as mental health programs and community health fairs, which further emphasize the essential roles nurses play. As we navigate this engaging job market landscape, I invite my fellow nursing professionals to explore opportunities locally through NurseRecruiter, where employers can post jobs and connect with talented candidates right here in our community. Together, we are not just healthcare providers, but integral parts of Waukegan's unique story.
