Careers in Caring: Hays Awaits You

Nestled in the heart of the High Plains, Hays, Kansas, is a charming community known for its historic downtown, vibrant arts scene, and hearty Midwestern spirit. As a proud resident of Hays, I can attest to the warmth of our people and the strength of our nursing job market. For nurses considering a career or travel opportunity here, Hays offers competitive salaries and a nurturing environment. Currently, registered nurses in Hays earn an average salary ranging from $26.50 to $31.00 per hour, translating to annual figures between $55,000 and $65,000. While these numbers are a touch lower than the national average of $40.43 per hour ($84,000 annually), they reflect our unique cost of living, which is notably more affordable than larger metropolitan areas. Our city also has its attractions; from the historic Fort Hays State University to the iconic Hays Community Theatre, there's always something happening in our vibrant community.

The pace in Hays lets me focus on what matters—my patients and my growth.

Diving deeper into the current nursing job market in Hays, we're witnessing a steady demand for healthcare professionals. According to recent estimates, we may need up to 50 new nurses over the next four years to fill roles that support our healthcare facilities. The existing nursing workforce in Hays is approximately 200 strong, and we benefit from several healthcare providers. With facilities like HaysMed, one of the region's leading hospitals, and other local clinics, nurses can find opportunities across various specialties, including critical care and pediatrics. Hays is also a decent hub for travel nurses, particularly in the summer months when patients seek care for seasonal ailments, positioning our city well within the broader Kansas landscape. In comparison to nearby cities like Oakley or Dodge City, Hays stands out with a robust job market that offers more healthcare facilities, thereby leading to better job stability and career growth opportunities.

The healthcare infrastructure in Hays is continually evolving, with recent investments aimed at enhancing patient care services and expanding nursing roles. Our community prides itself on programs that address both physical and mental health, evidenced by the local outreach initiatives targeting population health. Hays itself boasts a population of around 20,000 residents and is projected to see modest growth over the next decade, which will further necessitate nursing professionals to meet the healthcare demands of our changing demographics. Moreover, our thriving local culture, which includes community events and outdoor activities like exploring the Kansas Wetlands, fosters a fulfilling lifestyle for healthcare workers. Overall, the synergy between Hays' healthcare infrastructure and its commitment to community wellbeing makes it an appealing destination for nursing professionals. For those of us looking for new opportunities or current employers eager to find local candidates, the NurseRecruiter platform is an invaluable resource, connecting us all in our shared mission of enhancing healthcare in Hays.