West Des Moines Emerges as a Premier Destination for Nursing Careers: Competitive Salaries, Job Growth, and a Supportive Community await Professionals in Iowa's Thriving Healthcare Sector
Here in West Des Moines, nestled in the heart of Iowa, our vibrant community is fast becoming a beacon for nursing professionals. Known for its friendly atmosphere, beautifully designed parks, and a rapidly growing population, West Des Moines is a delightful blend of suburban living and urban convenience. As of the latest data, the average salary for nurses in Iowa hovers around $30.00 per hour, translating to approximately $62,000 annually, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, local estimates suggest that nurses can expect a range of $32.00 to $37.00 per hour here, benefiting from our city's flourishing healthcare landscape and an increasing demand for skilled nursing professionals. In comparison, the national average sits closer to $35.00 per hour, creating a favorable alignment for our local workforce. As a city so intertwined with Des Moines, just a short drive away, we enjoy shared resources, yet we retain our unique charm with local eateries, shopping centers, and cultural spots that celebrate our Midwestern roots.
Diving deeper into the nursing job market, the present landscape reflects both a compelling demand and a promising outlook for new graduates. According to NurseRecruiter estimates, with West Des Moines’ population growing, we anticipate an influx of over 300 new nursing jobs over the next three to five years, driven largely by retirements and the need to staff new healthcare facilities. With approximately 1,500 nurses currently employed in our community, this growth reflects a 20% increase needed to address the demands and demographics of our residents. Additionally, travel nursing opportunities are on the rise, especially during summer months when local hospitals might experience higher patient volumes. Our city has around 50 travel nursing assignments throughout the year, and while not a hotspot like major metropolitan areas, we are seeing an increasing interest in temporary nursing positions due to favorable living conditions and family-friendly environments. Comparing ourselves to nearby cities such as Urbandale, Clive, and Ankeny, we find that although each area offers competitive salaries—typically ranging from $30.00 to $35.00 per hour—West Des Moines stands out for its community feel and lower living costs, making it an attractive choice for both local and traveling nurses.
Our healthcare infrastructure in West Des Moines is robust and continuously expanding. Home to several comprehensive healthcare facilities, including MercyOne West Des Moines Medical Center and UnityPoint Health – Iowa Lutheran Hospital, the demand for specialized nursing roles, particularly in pediatrics, mental health, and geriatric care, remains high. Recent investments into our healthcare systems signal a commitment to improving our local services, ensuring we have state-of-the-art facilities catering to our growing population, projected to reach 70,000 in the next decade. Coupled with various public health initiatives aimed at improving community wellness, nurses here not only participate in patient care but also play a critical role in enhancing public health outcomes. Living in West Des Moines offers a practical mix of work-life balance, with access to local parks, gatherings, and a robust arts scene that nurtures our vibrant community. If you’re a nursing professional seeking opportunities in a thriving environment, consider signing up with NurseRecruiter to explore local job matches that align with your career aspirations. And if you're an employer in need of dedicated nurses, NurseRecruiter is your platform to post jobs and connect with our city's skilled workforce. Let's build a healthier West Des Moines together!
