Billings, Montana: A Booming Nursing Job Market Amidst Stunning Landscapes and Growing Healthcare Demand
Here in Billings, Montana, the nursing job market thrives amid the vast, sweeping landscapes that define our western charm. Nestled by the foothills of the Rockies and the Yellowstone River, Billings is not just the largest city in Montana but also a pivotal healthcare hub for the region. Our local nurses are generally earning hourly wages ranging from $30.00 to $43.00, translating to annual salaries between $62,400 and $89,440, depending on experience and specialty. This compares favorably with Montana’s average hourly wage of around $35.00 and the national average of approximately $37.00, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Given our rich cultural heritage, unique outdoor lifestyle, and proximity to breathtaking landmarks like the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, it’s easy to see why nursing professionals find Billings an appealing place to live and work—especially against regional competitors like Bozeman and Missoula, which have healthcare job markets that can be equally competitive.
Taking a closer look at the job market, Billings is seeing a consistent need for healthcare professionals; estimates indicate we will require approximately 300 new nurses over the next five years to keep up with our ever-growing population, projected at over 120,000 by 2025. Currently, we have around 2,200 nurses employed and a robust demand for both travel and per diem nursing jobs, with travel positions peaking during summer months when our tourist population swells. Notably, there are seven major hospitals in the area, including Billings Clinic and St. Vincent Healthcare, as well as numerous urgent care clinics and specialty facilities. Compared to nearby cities, Missoula offers more job opportunities but often at lower salaries, while Great Falls provides a slightly less competitive market but is growing quickly. As a proud resident, I recommend checking out NurseRecruiter to connect with local job matches, ensuring that all nursing professionals can easily find their place in this bustling market.
Our healthcare infrastructure is constantly evolving. Billings is seeing significant investments in medical facilities, particularly in areas focused on specialized care such as cardiology and orthopedics, addressing the increasing healthcare needs of our population. While embracing innovation with new technologies, we maintain our warm sense of community that defines life here. Billings boasts a mix of urban convenience and outdoor adventure, with attractions such as ZooMontana and the historic downtown area, where local events bring us together. As our population grows— projected to rise at an annual rate of 0.9%— so too will the demand for skilled nursing professionals, supported by initiatives like local health screenings and immunization drives aimed at strengthening public health. I invite all current and prospective nurses to consider Billings not just as a place to work, but as a place where your contributions truly matter. For those seeking job opportunities, remember to sign up for NurseRecruiter, where employers can also find local candidates eager to make a difference in our community.
