Nursing Careers Bloom in Burlington's Heart

Here in Burlington, Iowa, the nursing job market thrives amidst the charm of our picturesque river views and close-knit community spirit. As a local nurse, I’m happy to report that registered nurses in our city can expect an average salary range between $59,000 and $68,500 annually, which reflects somewhat below the Iowa state average of around $66,000 and the national average of approximately $77,600 as per the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Burlington is known for its historical landmarks like the Great River Bridge and a vibrant downtown area that buzzes with local eateries and shops. Considered a hidden gem in the Midwest, our city offers a lifestyle deeply rooted in community interaction while providing an array of healthcare opportunities, contrasting with larger metropolitan areas like Cedar Rapids and Des Moines.

The current state of Burlington's nursing job market reflects our community's pressing healthcare demands and ever-growing future needs. With an estimated 470 registered nurses currently employed in the city and anticipations suggesting a projection of needing about 100 new nurses over the next five years, the demand is promising. Additionally, Burlington houses five major healthcare facilities, including the Great River Medical Center, which stands as a primary employer. Although travel nursing hasn’t picked up to the same degree we see in tourist-heavy regions, there are still seasonal opportunities particularly during the flu season and summer months, which can attract temporary staffing. In contrast, nearby cities like Keokuk and Fort Madison offer limited nursing opportunities but tend to have slightly lower salary averages, emphasizing a need for more professionals in those areas. All of this presents an encouraging picture that incentivizes new nursing graduates and seasoned professionals alike to consider our beautiful city.

When we explore Burlington’s healthcare infrastructure, we find various specialties thriving due to our significant community investments in public health and expanded services at local medical facilities. Our institutions offer essential services catering to specialties such as pediatrics and geriatrics, which are in high demand as our population ages. Burlington is home to approximately 25,000 residents, and public health initiatives, such as our comprehensive vaccination campaigns and mental health outreach programs, highlight the active role nurses play in community health. With these ongoing developments in the healthcare landscape and the warm, welcoming culture of our city, Burlington exists as an attractive place for nursing professionals to settle down, grow their careers, and make an impact. If you’re a nurse looking to join our community, I invite you to sign up for NurseRecruiter, where you can explore job opportunities tailored to your expertise. Local healthcare employers can also leverage the platform to find qualified candidates who are eager to contribute to our vibrant healthcare system.