Thriving Nursing Job Market in Frankfort, Kentucky: Balancing Competitive Salaries with Rich Community and Career Growth Opportunities
Here in Frankfort, Kentucky, nestled along the banks of the Kentucky River, we've cultivated a vibrant community highlighted by our rich history and picturesque landscapes. Our nursing job market reflects this spirit of resilience and growth. On average, nurses in Frankfort earn approximately $31.36 per hour, equating to about $65,000 annually, which places us slightly below the state average of $34.22 per hour ($71,164 annually) and the national average of $37.14 per hour ($77,180 annually) according to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. As proud residents, we love to cradle artisan shops and local dining, but we also appreciate the unique opportunity that our city's nursing sector offers, not just for local professionals but also for those considering travel nursing. Frankfort's rich culture, evident in landmarks like the Old State Capitol and the Rebecca Ruth Candy Company, adds to our unique vibe. Our central location also serves as a gateway to larger cities like Lexington and Louisville, which can create attractive options for those commuting for nursing roles.
The nursing job market in Frankfort is shaping up positively. While the healthcare landscape here boasts a current workforce of around 700 registered nurses, the state's growing population indicates that we will need approximately 70 to 100 new nurses in the next five years to meet demand. Several local facilities, such as Frankfort Regional Medical Center and Passport Health Plan, present robust employment opportunities. As for travel nursing, while we may not be a primary hotspot, our location makes Frankfort accessible to larger healthcare jobs in the surrounding areas, and the demand does fluctuate seasonally. The per diem nursing market is estimated to have around 100 active positions, providing flexible options for our local nurses. Furthermore, nearby cities like Lexington offer strong competition, with salaries averaging around $35.00 per hour and a burgeoning healthcare sector, while more rural places like Shelbyville average about $27.00 per hour, creating a diverse palette of job opportunities that can influence a nurse's decision.
As we delve deeper into Frankfort’s healthcare infrastructure, we find that our city is home to key facilities, including about five major hospitals and several clinics focused on specialties like geriatrics and pediatrics. Recent investments by the state in healthcare upgrades and community health initiatives highlight our commitment to improving public health and supporting nursing roles, especially in the realm of preventative care. Frankfort's population is around 27,000 and steadily growing, enhancing our potential for innovative healthcare solutions. The community's close-knit atmosphere allows us to thrive both personally and professionally. In a place where local festivals and farmers' markets flourish, we blend a fulfilling lifestyle with dedicated career opportunities in nursing. For current and aspiring nurses, there are plenty of avenues for job exploration through NurseRecruiter, which presents an opportunity not just to discover local job matches but also for employers like hospitals and clinics to post job openings and attract talent right from their own backyard. By engaging with our healthcare ecosystem, we can all contribute to a healthier community here in Frankfort.
