Lincoln, Nebraska: A Thriving Hub for Nursing Professionals with Strong Job Demand, Competitive Salaries, and Vibrant Community Life
Here in Lincoln, Nebraska, we are proud of our vibrant community and the essential role nursing professionals play within it. With a mix of modern healthcare facilities and a strong emphasis on community health, Lincoln provides a thriving job market for nurses. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses in Nebraska earn a mean hourly wage of $30.55, while the national average sits at $37.87. Specifically for Lincoln, Nurses can expect a salary range between $28.50 and $36.00 per hour, often depending on their experience and specialization. It's worth noting that this city is not only the state capital, but it also boasts beautiful parks, historical sites, and a rich cultural scene which makes life here enjoyable for both residents and visitors alike. We often find ourselves contrasting Lincoln’s nursing market with that of Omaha. Though Omaha is larger and has a few more specialized facilities, the overall opportunities for nurses in Lincoln are appealing, particularly for those of us who enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle yet still wish to be on the cutting edge of healthcare.
Lincoln’s nursing job market is both robust and growing. NurseRecruiter estimates there is a current demand for approximately 1,200 registered nurses in our city, with projections suggesting that we will need around 500 additional nurses over the next five years due to retirements and increasing demand for healthcare services in our aging population. With around 4,500 nurses actively working in Lincoln, the job market is competitive, but numerous opportunities remain. Also significant is the realm of travel and per diem nursing, where Lincoln does not experience the same demand fluctuations seen in larger metropolitan areas. While there are around 200 travel nursing jobs available, especially during the summer months when more patient care is required, the per diem market is sizable, with about 300 positions across local healthcare facilities. Our major employers include Bryan Health, CHI Health, and several clinics dotting the landscape, offering ample chances for nursing professionals to build rewarding careers. When we look at nearby cities like Omaha, Grand Island, and Fremont, Lincoln holds its own, boasting strong job retention rates and salaries that, while slightly under Omaha's, provide a great quality of life.
The healthcare infrastructure in Lincoln is one that continues to grow and adapt to our community’s needs. With several major hospitals, outpatient clinics, and specialized health facilities, nurses can explore areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, emergency services, and specialty care. Investment in health systems here is on the rise; recent expansions at Bryan Health and innovative programs at the University of Nebraska Medical Center show a commitment not only to infrastructure but also to enhancing patient care. As Lincoln’s population hovers around 292,000 and continues to expand at a rate of nearly 1.2% annually, community health initiatives are also thriving, addressing issues from mental health to public safety. For nurses, opportunities abound in positions that implement and advocate for these important public health programs. Ultimately, whether you're a seasoned nursing professional or a newcomer considering Lincoln as your next home, the city presents a blend of career opportunities and community that make it a unique place to live and work. Don’t forget to check out NurseRecruiter; it’s a fantastic resource for current and prospective nurses seeking local job opportunities, as well as for employers looking to hire talented nursing staff right here in Lincoln.
