Nursing Careers Bloom in Springfield's Heart

As a lifelong resident of Springfield, Missouri, I’ve watched our city evolve into a vibrant hub of nursing opportunities, nestled in the scenic Ozarks. With a population of approximately 170,000, we’re known for our friendly atmosphere, rich history, and the beautiful outdoor spaces that surround us, such as the stunning Ozark Greenways. When it comes to the nursing job market, Springfield stands out as one of the more robust regions in Missouri. Currently, registered nurses in our area average around $30.97 per hour, leading to an annual salary of roughly $64,385. This is notably higher than the national average, which sits at $35.24 per hour or approximately $73,300 annually, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. While our state's mean of $31.65 per hour is slightly above that of Springfield, the cost of living here makes our salaries stretch a little further. The natural charm of our city pairs well with its healthcare scene, highlighted by accessible healthcare facilities and an overall strong sense of community.

Working in Springfield opened doors I didn't know existed. The network here is incredible.

Analyzing the local nursing job market reveals that we are indeed in a period of growth. Springfield currently boasts around 3,500 registered nurses. With estimates projecting a necessity for about 1,500 new nursing positions over the next five years—accounting for both retirements and expansion—we are well-positioned to meet that demand. Travel nursing opportunities are gaining traction here, particularly during the summer months when hospitals experience an uptick in patient volume due to seasonal illnesses and tourist influxes. Within our city, we’re home to several major healthcare employers, including Mercy Hospital Springfield and CoxHealth, which are two of the largest hospital systems in the region. Comparatively, when looking at nearby cities like Joplin and Branson, while they too have a healthy nursing job market, Springfield generally offers more diverse roles and higher average salaries. Despite the allure of Kansas City and St. Louis, which present larger metropolitan nursing opportunities, the allure of Springfield's lifestyle, combined with its growing job market, makes it a worthy alternative for local nursing professionals.

Our healthcare infrastructure continues to develop alongside the city’s needs, with numerous specialized facilities catering to everything from pediatrics to geriatrics. Notably, Mercy Hospital recently expanded its footprint, adding new surgical units and advanced imaging technologies, which further enhances job opportunities for nurses specializing in those fields. The growing population in Greene County— projected to increase steadily over the next decade—supports a continuous demand for healthcare services. Local initiatives, such as community health screenings and public health advocacy through organizations like the Ozarks Healthcare Coalition, actively engage nurses in impactful programs within our neighborhoods. With its compelling combination of community spirit, evolving healthcare landscape, and ample opportunities, Springfield stands out as an excellent place for nursing professionals. I encourage my fellow nurses to explore job options in our area on NurseRecruiter, where employers can also discover and connect with local talent to meet our community’s healthcare needs.