Burlington, Iowa: A Growing Hub for Nursing Professionals with Competitive Salaries, Rich Community Spirit, and Emerging Opportunities in Healthcare
Nestled along the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, Burlington, Iowa, is a city imbued with rich history and a tight-knit community spirit. Here in Burlington, we take pride in our picturesque views and vibrant arts scene, which often play backdrop to the bustling nursing job market that supports our local healthcare needs. Currently, nursing salaries in Burlington range from an average of $28.00 to $36.00 per hour, which translates to an annual salary between $58,240 and $74,880. In comparison, the national average for registered nurses stands at around $37.22 per hour ($77,600 annually), while the mean salary in Iowa rests at approximately $34.33 per hour ($71,500 annually). This reflects not just our cost of living, but also our community’s appreciation for skilled nursing professionals who make a difference in the lives of their neighbors. Burlington's charm can’t be overstated, whether it’s the majestic Great River Bridge or the famed Snake Alley that draws tourists, we have a unique blend of small-town friendliness and professional opportunity that appeals to both local and traveling nurses.
As we take a closer look at the nursing job market in Burlington, it's evident that we are on the brink of considerable growth. With an estimated need for approximately 130 new registered nurses over the next five years, our current workforce of around 600 RNs is poised for expansion. The demand for nursing professionals isn’t only limited to traditional roles; travel nursing positions are becoming increasingly prevalent in our city, particularly during the summer months when local facilities experience higher patient volumes. Recent estimates suggest that about 20 to 30 travel nursing jobs are available in Burlington, complementing the more than 200 per diem nursing opportunities that allow for schedule flexibility. Major employers in the area include Great River Medical Center and Sunnybrook Assisted Living. When you look at our neighboring cities, like Fort Madison and Mount Pleasant, Burlington holds its own; while Fort Madison offers slightly higher pay at around $30 to $37 per hour, the lifestyle and community feel here make Burlington a desirable spot for many healthcare professionals. The friendly rivalry between Burlington and its neighboring towns fuels not only our economic growth but enhances our nursing job opportunities significantly.
Burlington is home to several key healthcare facilities, including the Great River Medical Center, which encompasses a full range of specialties from emergency medicine to pediatrics, ensuring a robust need for diverse nursing skills. Our healthcare infrastructure is on an upward trajectory, with ongoing developments projected to unveil new services and specialties in the coming years. Living in Burlington is a blend of community engagement and access to outdoor beauty that provides quality of life. Our population stands at approximately 25,000, and while we’re experiencing slight growth, the demand for proficient healthcare services remains constant, supported by various public health initiatives that enrich our community. As a seasoned nurse living here, I can vouch for the sense of purpose we derive from caring for our neighbors, and I encourage any nursing professional—whether from near or far—to explore the possibilities available through our local job market. For employers looking to connect with passionate nurses, I recommend using NurseRecruiter to find local talent and for nurses eager to discover job matches in our welcoming city of Burlington, this is the platform to watch. Together, we can nurture our healthcare community to keep flourishing right here in our beloved town.