Bassett, Nebraska: A Hidden Gem for Nursing Professionals in a Thriving Small-Town Healthcare Market
Here in Bassett, Nebraska, a town that prides itself on its small-town charm and welcoming community, the nursing job market is both robust and evolving. With a population of just over 1,300, we may be small, but our strong healthcare ethos is undeniable. The average salary range for nurses in Bassett is estimated to be between $28.75 and $34.00 per hour, translating to annual salaries of approximately $59,000 to $70,720. Nationally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that registered nurses earn a mean hourly wage of $38.71 and a mean annual salary of $80,010, while in Nebraska, these numbers are around $34.61 per hour or $72,000 per year. The cost of living in our charming town is considerably lower than national averages, helping our nurses stretch each dollar further while providing quality care to our community. Landmarks like the historical County Courthouse and the expansive Niobrara River offer scenic beauty and contribute to our local pride, making our city not just a place to work but a place to truly call home.
As we analyze the job market, it’s clear that Bassett has a healthy demand for healthcare professionals. NurseRecruiter estimates that our town will need approximately 50 new RNs in the next five years to keep pace with population growth and retirements, which represents a substantial opportunity for new and experienced nurses alike. Currently, we have an estimated 150 registered nurses employed within our city limits, serving various healthcare facilities, including the Rock County Hospital and numerous outpatient clinics. The demand for travel nursing and per diem positions is also rising, particularly during the summer tourist months when nearby lakes attract visitors, creating temporary surges in patient needs. While we may not match larger cities in volume, neighboring towns like Ainsworth and O'Neill offer similar nursing opportunities and benefits, but with their own unique challenges. For instance, Ainsworth boasts a higher salary average at around $32.00 per hour but has a more competitive environment. In contrast, Bassett's settings offer a more laid-back lifestyle with lower competition.
The healthcare infrastructure in Bassett is characterized by the Rock County Hospital, which serves as the primary facility along with several clinics specializing in family medicine, pediatrics, and urgent care. The community is actively investing in expansion and modernization efforts to enhance healthcare delivery and attract talented nurses to our vibrant town. Local initiatives such as those targeting rural health challenges amplify the need for specialized nursing roles, including public health and geriatric care. The population is stable, and projections indicate a modest but steady growth rate over the coming years, signaling a persistent demand for nursing services. The community's strong sense of togetherness embodies the essence of what it means to be a Bassett resident—supporting one another while fostering a culture of health and wellness. I encourage my fellow nurses, whether you are currently working in Bassett or considering a move here, to sign up for NurseRecruiter for local job matches and to help our community grow. Employers can also utilize the platform to connect with passionate local candidates eager to make a difference in healthcare.
