Lakewood, NJ: A Booming Nursing Career Hub with Competitive Salaries and Expanding Opportunities in a Culturally Rich Community
Nestled in the heart of Ocean County, Lakewood, New Jersey is a vibrant community known for its unique blend of suburban charm and cultural diversity. As a local resident, I’ve seen firsthand how our melting pot of cultures enriches our nursing job market. The nursing profession here is thriving, with the average annual salary for registered nurses estimated to range between $75,000 and $90,000, depending on experience and specific roles. When we look at state data from the New Jersey Department of Labor and national averages from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which cites a mean annual salary of approximately $80,000 for nurses in the Garden State and around $77,600 nationally, it’s clear that Lakewood offers a competitive edge in compensation. This town is positioned just a short drive from bustling metropolitan areas like Newark and New York City, which not only influences salary trends but also offers nurses a plethora of opportunities in their career paths.
The nursing job market here in Lakewood is robust and poised for growth. With a population of approximately 100,000 residents, NurseRecruiter estimates that we currently have around 2,500 registered nurses serving our community, with an expected rise of 20% over the next five years to meet projected healthcare needs. The demand for new nursing graduates and experienced practitioners is evident as local hospitals, such as Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus and Lakewood's own hospitals, continue to expand their services. Additionally, travel nursing and per diem positions are gaining traction, especially during peak seasons in summer and flu season in winter, with estimates suggesting around 300 travel nursing jobs annually. In contrast, nearby towns like Toms River and Brick present lower salary ranges, with Toms River showing an average annual salary of $76,000 for nurses. While Brick holds similar opportunities, Lakewood’s unique community and healthcare facilities, such as urgent care centers and specialty clinics, create a distinctive atmosphere for nursing professionals.
Our healthcare infrastructure in Lakewood is comprehensive, featuring over ten major healthcare facilities, including outpatient clinics and specialized care units, which cater to a wide variety of nursing specialties. Recent investments in community health initiatives, particularly in mental health and maternal care, further bolster the demand for skilled nurses. The projected population growth rate in Lakewood is around 2% over the next few years, suggesting an ongoing need for healthcare services. Public health programs, like the annual “Lakewood Wellness Fair,” aim to promote health education and disease prevention, directly impacting nursing roles in our community. Living here, I appreciate the tight-knit atmosphere of our neighborhoods, where local events and festivals bring us together. It’s a vibrant place not only to grow in your nursing career but also to immerse yourself in community life. If you’re considering joining our ranks or are already a part of our nursing family, I encourage you to explore local opportunities on NurseRecruiter, where you can find tailored job matches to suit your professional goals. Employers can also post to find dedicated nursing talent that’s right here in Lakewood.
