Nurse Your Career Among City Lakes

Here in Minneapolis, our vibrant city is known for its breathtaking lakes, thriving arts scene, and an incredible sense of community. But for nursing professionals like us, it also presents a dynamic job market that is hard to ignore. As of 2021, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that registered nurses in Minnesota had an average annual salary of approximately $78,740, translating to about $37.83 per hour. In Minneapolis specifically, these numbers run a bit higher, with averages ranging from $80,000 to $85,000 annually. Our cost of living allows nurses to lead comfortable lives while enjoying all that our bustling metropolitan area has to offer, from the iconic Mall of America to the beautiful Chain of Lakes. Compared to the national average salary of about $75,330 for registered nurses, it’s evident that we enjoy a slight edge here in Minnesota, especially when compared to nearby regions like Wisconsin, where averages hover around $74,150.

The opportunities in Minneapolis are endless. I've advanced my career faster here than I ever expected.

Analyzing the nursing job market here reveals tremendous growth potential. Our city currently employs around 13,500 registered nurses, and with an estimated increase of around 20% in demand projected over the next five years, we can expect over 2,500 additional roles to open up. Not only do we have major employers like Hennepin Healthcare, Fairview Health Services, and North Memorial Health, but the demand for travel and per diem nursing is also on the rise, particularly during the summer months when tourism peaks. Travel nursing positions are forecasted to grow significantly as facilities ramp up staffing to accommodate increased patient volume during events and festivals. Compared to nearby cities like St. Paul, where the nursing market offers slightly lower salaries but similar job growth rates, Minneapolis stands out with its array of healthcare facilities and specialties, including women’s health, pediatrics, and critical care.

Our healthcare infrastructure is robust and continuously evolving, with new clinics and hospitals opening as Minneapolis’ population grows, currently standing at around 429,606 as of 2021. We’re adapting to the needs of our community with ongoing initiatives aimed at public health improvements, such as the focus on mental health services and chronic disease management. As local nurses, we find ourselves surrounded by a supportive community and a lifestyle that prioritizes wellness and connection. The mix of city life and nature is a breath of fresh air, encouraging us to experience all the parks, theaters, and local eateries. For those considering a move to Minneapolis or looking for new opportunities, I cannot recommend checking out NurseRecruiter enough. It’s a great tool for local job matches that help us navigate our thriving market and continue serving our community while getting the best out of our careers. And employers can use NurseRecruiter to find our skills, ensuring that the needs of our healthcare system are met.