Ames, Iowa: A Thriving Nursing Job Market Offering Competitive Salaries and Community-Centric Living Amid Rapid Growth and Healthcare Opportunities
Here in Ames, Iowa, the nursing job market is as vibrant as our community spirit. Nestled in the heart of Story County and home to Iowa State University, we boast a lively atmosphere filled with innovation and growth. As of 2022, the mean annual salary for nurses in Iowa was approximately $66,150, with a median hourly wage of around $31.80. In Ames specifically, we can estimate that the average nursing salary ranges between $29.50 and $34.00 per hour or roughly $61,000 to $71,000 annually. This puts us slightly below national averages, where registered nurses earned a mean annual salary of $77,600 and $37.25 hourly as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The allure of Ames lies not solely in our nursing pay scales but also in our bustling local culture, proximity to natural wonders like Ada Hayden Heritage Park, and our tight-knit community, fostered by the university’s student life.
The nursing job market here reflects both stability and growth. Recent data indicates that the healthcare landscape in Ames is growing, with a projected demand for about 700 additional registered nurses in the next five years, representing a notable increase in opportunities. Currently, there are approximately 1,900 nurses employed in the area, which aligns with the increasing population of about 66,000 residents. Travel nursing opportunities are rising, especially during the summer months, as local healthcare facilities accommodate seasonal demand, with an estimated 100 travel nursing jobs available at any given time. In terms of per diem positions, Ames offers around 50 such roles, allowing for flexibility in work schedules. Notable healthcare employers include Mary Greeley Medical Center and various clinics throughout town. When compared to nearby cities like Des Moines and Cedar Falls, Ames tends to provide fewer job opportunities at slightly lower salary ranges; however, the quality of life and community involvement are our unique draws, setting Ames apart from larger metropolitan rivals.
Our healthcare infrastructure in Ames has recorded significant investments, including the expansion of Mary Greeley Medical Center, catering to various specialties like pediatrics and geriatrics. The community thrives on cultural events like the Ames Main Street Farmers' Market and the annual Iowa State Fair, weaving a strong sense of belonging amid our professional environment. With a population growth rate of around 1.2% over the past decade, we expect this trend to continue, further enhancing our healthcare workforce needs. Public health initiatives in Ames have also encouraged a proactive approach toward wellness, increasing the demand for nursing roles supporting preventive care. Here in Ames, we have the unique opportunity to be part of a supportive healthcare community. For those looking for jobs, working with NurseRecruiter is a great way to find local job matches and advance your nursing career. Employers can also benefit from posting job openings on NurseRecruiter, connecting with qualified candidates eager to join our vibrant nursing network.
