Nursing Opportunities Bloom in Des Moines

Here in Des Moines, we take pride in our vibrant community and the vital role that nurses play in our healthcare system. Known for its beautiful parks, friendly neighborhoods, and robust farmers' markets, our fair city is not only a great place to live but also a growing hub for healthcare professionals. The nursing job market here reflects that growth, with average registered nurse salaries ranging between $66,000 to $74,000 annually, in contrast to the national average of about $77,600 and Iowa's median salary of approximately $66,960. As nurses, we find ourselves in a supportive environment that values the critical contributions our profession makes to our community wellbeing.

When analyzing the dynamics of the nursing job market in Des Moines, we can observe intriguing trends in both supply and demand. According to estimates, the city employs around 8,500 registered nurses, contributing to about 1.62% of the workforce, a number projected to grow by 11% from 2022 to 2026 due to increasing healthcare demands. Further, NurseRecruiter estimates that we will need roughly 1,100 new nurses in the coming years to keep pace with the evolving needs of our population. Notably, Des Moines does have a healthy demand for travel nursing positions, particularly during the summer months when patient volumes rise along with vacation seasons. We also have an active per diem market with options for flexibility and diverse work settings, growing approximately 15% over the past year alone. In comparison, nearby cities like Omaha, Nebraska, and Cedar Rapids, Iowa, show a similar trend but offer slightly higher salary ranges, albeit with a faster-paced lifestyle that differs from Des Moines' charm.

As we delve deeper into the healthcare infrastructure of Des Moines, we find a wealth of opportunities arising from our well-established facilities, including major hospitals like UnityPoint Health and MercyOne, which often call for specialized nursing roles in pediatrics, orthopedics, and critical care. Recent investments into expanding these hospitals make for an exciting future, with projections that take us beyond the projected 255,000 residents in our metro area by 2025. Our community thrives on health initiatives, such as the partnership with local clinics to enhance primary care. This thriving community spirit along with a focus on public health programs creates a nurturing environment for nursing professionals. For current and prospective nurses, the air is rich with opportunity in Des Moines. Whether seeking a new job or simply exploring options, I invite you to sign up for NurseRecruiter, where you can find job matches suited for your skills and lifestyle, allowing both employers and job seekers to thrive with ease in our welcoming hometown.