Springfield, Missouri: A Booming Nursing Job Market in the Heart of the Ozarks Promising Competitive Salaries and Expanding Opportunities
Springfield, Missouri, known as the "Queen City of the Ozarks," is not just a charming destination with rich history and beautiful parks; it also boasts a burgeoning nursing job market that reflects the city's unique blend of local culture and healthcare innovation. Here in Springfield, registered nurses earn an average salary ranging from $27.00 to $32.00 per hour, translating to an annual income of approximately $56,000 to $66,500. This places our city competitively on the nursing salary scale when compared to the state average of around $28.44 per hour and national averages hovering around $37.31 per hour according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Springfield's delightful mix of suburban and urban elements, highlighted by landmarks like the Dickerson Park Zoo and the beautiful Botanical Center, complements the vibrant yet affordable lifestyle that many healthcare professionals find appealing.
As we analyze the current state of the nursing job market in Springfield, we see a robust outlook characterized by demand for skilled nursing professionals. NurseRecruiter estimates that we will need to welcome approximately 310 new nurses over the next five years to meet future healthcare needs, with our current nursing workforce consisting of roughly 3,600 individuals. Travel nursing is also gaining traction here, with about 50 to 75 travel nursing positions available each month, particularly during the peak seasons from late summer to early fall. This contrasts favorably with nearby cities like Joplin and Branson, where nurse salaries tend to be slightly lower, at around $26.00 to $30.00 per hour in Joplin and $25.50 to $29.50 in Branson. The thriving number of healthcare facilities—such as CoxHealth and Mercy Health System—ensures ample job opportunities, promoting a healthy competition for nurses across the region. If you’re eager to explore local job matches, NurseRecruiter is the perfect platform to start your journey.
In terms of healthcare infrastructure, Springfield is home to a wealth of facilities, including major hospitals, outpatient clinics, and specialty practices, all contributing to an ongoing investment in our healthcare community. We have approximately 12 major hospitals and several outpatient facilities, fostering a diverse array of nursing specialties, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, and critical care. There is also a growing emphasis on public health initiatives aimed at preventive care and community well-being. With a population of around 170,000 and projected growth rates showing a steady increase, Springfield continues to solidify its status as a healthcare hub in the Ozarks. Enhancing the city’s cultural fabric, the community’s warmth and commitment to collaboration create a nurturing environment for nurses and patients alike. If you’re considering taking the leap into our vibrant nursing job market, or if you're an employer looking to connect with talent, I encourage you to explore NurseRecruiter for all the possibilities awaiting you in Springfield.
