Explore the Booming Nursing Job Market in North Dakota: Opportunities for Growth, Community, and a Fulfilling Career in Healthcare
Here in North Dakota, we’re proud of our vast prairies, beautiful Badlands, and a healthcare system that mirrors our strong sense of community. The nursing job market here is particularly vibrant, thanks largely to our growing population and a need for healthcare professionals across various settings. As of May 2022, the mean annual wage for registered nurses in our state was approximately $74,970, translating to about $36.05 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. When we compare that to the national average of $82,750 per year, or $39.75 per hour, it’s clear that while our salaries may be a bit lower, the quality of life and the sense of community you find here is unmatched. Plus, North Dakota is known for its lower cost of living, which provides a different kind of value for those of us who call this state home. We embrace our cultural heritage, from the thriving artistic scenes in Bismarck to the charming small-town feel of places like Medora, making our state an attractive option for both local nurses and travel professionals.
The nursing job market in North Dakota is robust, with around 10,980 registered nurses employed as of 2022. Current forecasts predict an increasing demand for nurses, especially as our state grapples with an aging population and anticipates a need for around 1,300 additional nurses by 2025. Businesses like CHI St. Alexius Health and Sanford Health dominate our healthcare landscape, contributing significantly to local employment opportunities. Travel nursing is gaining traction in our state, especially during the peak flu season in fall and winter along with the seasonal influx during summer when a surge in activity occurs for our tourist spots. We also have a growing per diem nursing market, with several hundred job postings per year showing a surge in demand corresponding with our healthcare facilities’ hiring trends. Although there are fewer travel positions compared to larger states like California or Texas, North Dakota is firmly establishing itself as a slice of the opportunity pie for those seeking flexibility and adventure in their nursing careers.
Our healthcare infrastructure is experiencing significant investment, especially in rural areas where access to critical nursing services is paramount. We have over 49 hospitals and numerous clinics throughout our state that often look for skilled professionals in various specialties, including geriatrics and emergency care. North Dakota's estimated population is approximately 773,000, with growth being projected as more people recognize the charm and opportunities available here. Public health initiatives are also on the rise, with programs focusing on mental health and chronic disease management, thus expanding nursing roles into essential community health services. Overall, being a nurse in North Dakota offers a fulfilling career path alongside a lifestyle rich in culture and outdoor activities. For my fellow nursing professionals or anyone considering making the move here, don’t hesitate to check out NurseRecruiter to explore job opportunities in our state. Employers can also benefit by posting openings on NurseRecruiter to connect with our talented healthcare community.
