Nursing Opportunities Where Rivers Meet Care

Nestled along the Missouri River, Council Bluffs, Iowa, has an undeniable charm that resonates with both locals and visitors alike. With a rich history dating back to the westward expansion, our city offers a vibrant community complemented by beautiful landscapes and scenic parks. In recent years, Council Bluffs has seen growth in its healthcare sector, enhancing the nursing job market, which is now thriving, thanks to the presence of key healthcare facilities like Nebraska Medicine, CHI Health Mercy Hospital, and countless clinics. Here in Council Bluffs, the average nursing salary ranges from approximately $28.00 to $38.00 per hour, translating to an annual salary of between $58,240 and $79,040. This is notably competitive when compared to the state average of about $30.00 per hour ($62,400 annually) and the national average of $37.00 per hour ($77,000 annually) as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

I found exactly what I was looking for in Council Bluffs. Good hospitals, good people.

The nursing job market in Council Bluffs is robust, with a current workforce of around 1,200 employed nurses. With our population hovering around 62,000, this translates to a significant number of new nurses projected to be needed over the next three to five years—approximately 100 to 150 new nursing positions. Travel nursing opportunities here are quite active, particularly during the summer months when we welcome tourists, leading to an influx of temporary nursing demands in our healthcare facilities. Council Bluffs holds its own against nearby Omaha, which is just across the river and typically has higher salaries but also a more competitive environment. Other nearby cities such as Bellevue and Papillion also offer various opportunities for nurses but at slightly lower average salary ranges. One can observe a trend of per diem nursing jobs rising due to the flexibility they provide, which is especially appealing to many nurses seeking work-life balance.

Our city is home to several healthcare facilities ranging from community hospitals to specialized clinics that cater to a diverse population. With recent investments in healthcare infrastructure, including the expansion of hospital departments and the development of new clinics, Council Bluffs is poised for growth in various nursing specialties,, particularly in geriatric care and specialized services. The community engages actively in various public health initiatives aimed at improving overall health outcomes, providing ample opportunity for nurses to make a meaningful impact. With a steadily growing population, estimated to reach 67,000 in the next five years, our nursing landscape is on the cusp of expansion. Here in Council Bluffs, we assure you that there has never been a better time to be a nurse. For those interested in exploring job opportunities—be it for full-time, per diem, or travel nursing—signing up for NurseRecruiter will open the door to numerous local job matches. Employers in our community can also leverage the platform to find qualified local candidates eager to join the essential workforce that keeps our healthcare system thriving.