Caring for Prior Lake, One Patient at a Time

Nestled in the heart of Minnesota, Prior Lake is a picturesque community that radiates charm with its sparkling lakes and lush parks. A vibrant place to live, we pride ourselves on a warm, close-knit atmosphere where nursing professionals play a crucial role in our health and well-being. As I walk around the lakes and through the charming downtown area, I can’t help but notice how the nursing job market reflects the spirit of our city. Here, the average salary for registered nurses is estimated to be between $36.50 to $42.25 per hour, translating to an annual income of approximately $76,000 to $88,000. Nationally, registered nurses earn an average of $38.53 per hour, or around $80,000 per year, while Minnesota’s state average hovers around $37.50 per hour. This makes Prior Lake fairly competitive when considering the nearby metro area’s salary rates. The stunning scenery of the lakes coupled with growing healthcare facilities makes it an appealing environment not just for local nurses but also for traveling professionals looking for shorter-term roles.

I wanted a place where I could make a real difference. Prior Lake gave me that.

Diving into the job market, Prior Lake’s nursing landscape demonstrates solid demand. According to NurseRecruiter estimates, we need around 200 new nursing professionals in the next few years, spurred by an aging population and a growing healthcare infrastructure. Currently, our city boasts approximately 1,200 employed nurses, contributing significantly to the local economy. Nearby areas such as Burnsville and Savage, along with the larger Twin Cities, relay a more diverse healthcare landscape but often come with competitive salaries. Travel nursing opportunities fluctuate throughout the year, particularly peaking during the summer months when many visitors flock to our lakes, creating a surge in demand. Alongside this, the per diem nursing market is well-established, giving nurses flexibility to fill shifts at various healthcare facilities, which include three major hospitals, several outpatient clinics, and specialty treatment centers dotting our city.

The healthcare infrastructure in Prior Lake is ever-evolving, featuring a well-equipped array of facilities and specialized services in critical areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, and chronic disease management. With ongoing developments in response to the growing population, including the recent establishment of a brand-new urgent care center, the healthcare landscape here is becoming increasingly robust. With a population of around 25,000, anticipated growth continues, providing a solid foundation for our lovely community. We also have notable public health initiatives focused on wellness and preventive care, allowing nurses to engage in impactful community work. Here in Prior Lake, we’re not just seeing growth in numbers; it's about nurturing a community that supports collaboration and care. If you're a nursing professional considering a move or reevaluating your current role, I encourage you to sign up for NurseRecruiter to explore the plentiful job matches we have to offer, while employers can utilize the platform to find amazing local talent ready to make a difference in our healthcare community.