Hattiesburg: The Emerging Healthcare Hub Offering Promising Nursing Careers and a Unique Southern Lifestyle
Here in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, our unique charm blends the tranquility of a small town with the vibrancy of a growing healthcare hub. Known as the "Hub City," we’re surrounded by a rich tapestry of cultures, flavorful southern cuisine, and beautiful live oaks lining our streets. The nursing job market in Hattiesburg is promising, with average nursing salaries ranging between $25.00 to $35.00 per hour, translating to an annual income of about $52,000 to $73,000 – figures that align well with state averages and closely mirror the national mean of around $34.70 per hour or $72,000 per year, according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Not far from Hattiesburg, we see vibrant communities like Laurel and Petal that also contribute to our job market dynamics, but Hattiesburg holds its own with notable healthcare institutions such as Forrest General Hospital and Wesley Medical Center. Here, we thrive in both career and lifestyle amidst picturesque parks and a growing downtown scene.
The nursing job market here is displaying a robust demand with an estimated need for approximately 200 new nurses in the next few years due to both growth in population and the influx of healthcare facilities. Currently, the nurse workforce in Hattiesburg is around 800, but the projected growth should raise this to around 1,000 in the next five years. In terms of travel nursing and per diem opportunities, Hattiesburg presents a steady demand, particularly during peak seasons such as summer when our tourism sees a noticeable upswing. Travel nurses can find ample opportunities here, especially given the flexibility that per diem jobs provide; estimates suggest there are around 75 per diem positions available at any given time. Compared to nearby cities, Hattiesburg's unique blend of small-town living with immediate healthcare needs distinguishes it from Biloxi, which may offer higher pay but a more competitive landscape, or Natchez, which tends to be less active in attracting travel nursing talent.
As for our healthcare infrastructure, Hattiesburg boasts several major hospitals, an array of specialty clinics, and a growing number of outpatient care facilities. We’re witnessing ongoing investments in our healthcare system, such as expansions at Forrest General Hospital, which aim to enhance patient care and increase capacity. With a population nearing 50,000, Hattiesburg has been experiencing steady growth, making our healthcare initiatives more crucial than ever. Noteworthy public health programs implemented locally are focusing on improving maternal health and addressing chronic illnesses, which create new nursing roles and responsibilities. Living in Hattiesburg means enjoying a bit of everything—whether it's a quick drive to the scenic Longleaf Trace for a bike ride or indulging in local art shows from our vibrant community of creatives. It’s this unique lifestyle that allows us to thrive as nursing professionals while making a real difference in our community. For those looking to seize the abundant opportunities here, I encourage you to sign up for NurseRecruiter to explore local job matches tailored for you, and employers can utilize the platform to connect with dedicated local candidates.
