Thriving Nursing Job Market in Dickinson, North Dakota: Opportunities and Competitive Salaries Amid Community Growth and Healthcare Advancements
Here in Dickinson, North Dakota, the charm of our small city offers a unique backdrop to an evolving nursing job market. Nestled in the heart of the Bakken oil fields, we pride ourselves on our tight-knit community and stunning landscapes, including the picturesque Theodore Roosevelt National Park. With our growing population of around 25,000 residents, our healthcare sector is thriving, creating ample job opportunities for nursing professionals. According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean hourly wage for registered nurses nationwide is approximately $37.45, while the median annual salary hovers around $77,600. In North Dakota, these figures are slightly lower, with salaries for state nurses averaging about $33.72 per hour and an annual median close to $70,178. In Dickinson, we can expect our nursing salaries to range from $30 to $38 per hour, reflecting local demand and cost of living, which positions us competitively within the state and the broader region.
The nursing job market in Dickinson is currently robust, driven by both rapidly advancing healthcare services and a consistent influx of new residents drawn to the job opportunities in and around the oil field. NurseRecruiter estimates that we will need an additional 180 to 220 nurses over the next five years to keep up with patient care demands. Currently, with a rough estimate of about 700 registered nurses employed locally, the nursing profession here is vibrant yet in need of continued growth. Travel nursing is an increasingly popular avenue, particularly during the summer months when the influx of visitors to our beautiful parks and the seasonal demand in healthcare facilities peaks. In addition to our local hospitals, like CHI St. Alexius Health and Sanford Health, Dickinson offers ample per diem nursing positions largely occupied by local nurses looking for flexible work. Within a short commute, cities like Williston and Bismarck provide even more job opportunities. In contrasting Dickinson’s landscape with Williston's, we find that while salaries are comparable, Dickinson offers a more stable living environment, further enhancing its appeal to nursing professionals seeking a balance of work and lifestyle.
Our healthcare infrastructure is evolving rapidly, with significant investments underway to bolster both capacity and specialty care options. As a resident, I’ve observed ongoing expansions at local clinics to meet the needs of various nursing specialties, including emergency and critical care, which are increasingly in demand due to our growing population and diverse healthcare needs. The community spirit here is palpable, intertwined with a lifestyle that values adventure, from hiking in the Badlands to enjoying local art events and farmers' markets. Dickinson itself is projected to grow steadily, with a 3% annual increase forecasted, indicating an expanding market for healthcare services and nursing roles. We are fortunate to benefit from several public health initiatives aimed at improving wellness and preventive care, ensuring that our nursing professionals are not only employed but also actively contributing to healthier community outcomes. For current and prospective nurses considering a move to Dickinson, I encourage you to explore the opportunities available through NurseRecruiter to join our community of care. Employers, too, should consider utilizing NurseRecruiter to connect with local talent eager to make a difference in our healthcare landscape.
