Wilmington, North Carolina: A Thriving Hub for Nursing Careers with Competitive Salaries, Robust Job Growth, and Coastal Living Advantages
Here in Wilmington, North Carolina, we are surrounded by a unique blend of coastal charm, rich history, and vibrant arts that make our city an attractive place to live and work as nursing professionals. Our nursing job market reflects the area’s growth, with Registered Nurses (RNs) earning between $24.90 and $38.50 per hour, translating to annual salaries from approximately $51,800 to $80,000. These figures are competitive against state averages in North Carolina, where RNs earn about $30.22 hourly ($62,800 annually) and national figures which hover around $36.22 per hour ($75,500 annually). With the Atlantic Ocean as our neighbor and attractions like the historic downtown district and the scenic Riverwalk, Wilmington offers an alluring lifestyle while fostering a burgeoning healthcare community.
The nursing job market in Wilmington is notably robust, with a forecast predicting a need for 960 new nurses over the next five years, equating to a 15% growth rate. Our current nursing workforce is estimated to be around 6,400, which means we’re looking at a market that is both rich in opportunity and supportive of professional growth. Travel nursing is also on the rise here, especially during the peak summer months when healthcare facilities ramp up efforts to meet the seasonal demand. Additionally, the per diem nursing sector remains strong, offering flexibility for those wanting to adjust their work hours according to personal commitments. Notable employers in our area include New Hanover Regional Medical Center and several outpatient clinics, aligning Wilmington as a healthcare hub in a region competing against nearby cities such as Jacksonville and Fayetteville. While Jacksonville boasts its own healthcare facilities, the coastal lifestyle in Wilmington often gives us the upper hand in attracting nursing talent looking to combine work with leisure.
Wilmington’s healthcare infrastructure is indeed impressive, with multiple hospitals, outpatient facilities, rehabilitation centers, and specialty clinics catering to a range of patient needs, from pediatrics to geriatrics. Recently, significant investments have been made in expanding our existing healthcare facilities, along with new initiatives in telemedicine and public health outreach, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to evolving nursing roles. With a population of over 125,000 that steadily grows, Wilmington's blend of community spirit and healthcare development reflects a commitment to public health. The city is also active in promoting health and wellness programs, making it a great place for nurses to thrive professionally while engaging with a community full of vibrant activities, from the annual Riverfest to outdoor adventures along our beautiful beaches. If you’re considering a nursing career change or simply want to explore what's available in our local job market, now’s the time to check out NurseRecruiter for the latest opportunities. For employers, NurseRecruiter is a platform to connect with eager nursing candidates right here in Wilmington.
