Goldsboro: A Hidden Gem for Nursing Professionals with Growing Opportunities, Competitive Salaries, and a Thriving Community Lifestyle
As a Goldsboro resident and nursing professional, I can tell you that our city is more than just a dot on the map of North Carolina; it’s a vibrant community rich with Southern charm and an aspiring hub for healthcare. Nestled between Raleigh and Wilmington, Goldsboro boasts beautiful parks, historical landmarks, and a compelling tapestry of cultures. The nursing job market here, while not as competitive as larger cities, offers unique opportunities for those dedicated to patient care. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the mean hourly wage for nurses in North Carolina is around $34.50, with annual salaries averaging around $71,800. For Goldsboro specifically, I estimate that our average nursing salaries range from approximately $31.50 to $37.00 per hour, reflecting a local variation influenced by the cost of living and demand for care. This is a comfortable step below the state average, making it an excellent area for new nurses to gain experience without the burdens of larger cities.
Diving deeper into Goldsboro’s nursing landscape, it’s noteworthy that we are expecting a significant increase in demand for healthcare services. NurseRecruiter estimates there will be a need for around 180 new nurses over the next three to five years due to a growing population. Currently, our city is home to approximately 450 employed nurses, which means we have just under a 40% increase in demand on the horizon. Additionally, the trend towards travel nursing is gradually growing here. While we are not a hotspot compared to cities like Charlotte or Greensboro, seasonal trends show a rise in travel nurse positions during flu season and around major local events when temporary staffing needs escalate. Per diem nursing jobs also contribute to our market, with estimates pointing toward availability for about 50 positions at any given time, primarily filled by nurses seeking flexibility. It’s worth noting that nearby cities, like Wilson and Kinston, exhibit salary ranges that are quite similar, with Wilson averaging about $32.00 per hour and Kinston around $30.00, making them attractive contenders when considering a nursing career nearby.
Goldsboro has several healthcare facilities, including the well-respected Wayne UNC Health Care, which serves as a primary employer for nurses in our area. With the push for better healthcare infrastructure and recent investments in specialty services, such as orthopedics and women's health, our city is positioning itself as a forward-thinking community in healthcare. Furthermore, Goldsboro’s population is approximately 34,000 (2023 estimate), and we have projected growth over the next decade, with the city becoming increasingly diverse and vibrant. As local initiatives focus on community health improvement, nursing roles are becoming more vital, particularly in preventive care and education. Living here offers us a lifestyle deeply rooted in community, with local festivals, food, and parks to enjoy, making the work-life balance worth it. If you’re a nursing professional—whether seasoned or new—Goldsboro represents a promising place to grow your career while enjoying the comforts of a close-knit community. Remember to check out NurseRecruiter to find local job matches and explore opportunities tailored to your skills and interests, and if you are an employer, you can harness this platform to connect with our dedicated nursing workforce.
