Great Falls: A Thriving Nursing Career Hub with Competitive Salaries and Expanding Opportunities in a Scenic Montana Community
Nestled amid the stunning landscapes of Montana, Great Falls is not only known for its breathtaking waterfalls and vibrant community but also for its unique nursing job market. Here in Great Falls, we are fortunate to have a thriving healthcare sector, reflecting the resilience and dedication of our local health professionals. The average salary for registered nurses in our city is approximately $30.06 per hour, which translates to an annual salary of around $62,500, representing a range that is competitively positioned between the national mean salary of $37.28 hourly and $77,600 annually. Montana nurses, on average, earn about $32.21 per hour, or about $67,000 per year. The cost of living here is favorable, allowing our nurses to lead fulfilling lives while enjoying the city’s rich cultural scene, from the bustling downtown area to the picturesque trails along the Missouri River.
As we analyze the broader nursing job market in Great Falls, it becomes clear that we are facing a strong demand for nursing professionals. NurseRecruiter estimates that the city will need approximately 200 new nurses over the next three to five years to meet the growing healthcare demands, which includes staffing for our major facilities such as Benefis Health System and Great Falls Clinic, as well as numerous outpatient centers and specialty clinics. Currently, we have around 1,800 nurses actively working in Great Falls, reflecting a robust community committed to providing quality care. The demand for travel nursing and per diem roles is also on the rise, with local hospitals actively recruiting to cover shortages during peak seasons, especially in the summer months when outdoor adventures attract both tourists and traveling nurses seeking short-term assignments. When we look at nearby cities like Helena, Bozeman, and Billings, we see differentials in salary and job availability. For instance, while Bozeman offers a more vibrant lifestyle attracting young professionals, it often presents a lower number of nursing positions relative to its cost of living compared to our well-established community.
Great Falls’ healthcare infrastructure is continuously evolving, with advancements in various specialties like emergency medicine, pediatrics, and geriatrics. Counted among our healthcare facilities are two major hospitals, several clinics, and specialty practices that cater to various populations, all enhancing the city's healthcare landscape. Recent investments in telemedicine and health technology are also accelerating our healthcare delivery systems. The community is deeply engaged in public health initiatives tackling challenges like accessible healthcare services, mental health awareness, and chronic disease management, which underscores the importance of nursing roles in effecting positive health outcomes. With a population nearing 60,000 and projected growth, Great Falls is not just a place to work; it is a community where nurses can grow, thrive, and make a real difference. For current and prospective nursing professionals, I encourage you to explore local job opportunities through NurseRecruiter, where you can find connections and potential positions tailored just for you. Employers can also utilize NurseRecruiter to access a rich pool of local talent eager to serve our community. Here in Great Falls, we have a place for you in our healthcare family.
