Akron's Nursing Job Market: A Growing Hub for Career Opportunities, Competitive Salaries, and Community Engagement
Living in Akron, Ohio—a city renowned for its rich industrial history and scenic surroundings—I've often found myself reflecting on the evolving nursing job market here. As a local nurse, I can confidently say that Akron presents a variety of opportunities for both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike. Our average nursing salaries hover around $31.75 per hour, translating to approximately $66,000 annually, which is slightly below the Ohio state average of $34.15 hourly and $71,000 annually, but still competitive when you consider the cost of living here. Nationally, the mean hourly wage is about $39.50, with an annual salary nearing $82,000, so while we may not be at the top, the financial stability combined with our city's charm—local parks, family-friendly events, and the beautiful Cuyahoga Valley National Park—offers a wholesome lifestyle for nurses. In comparison to nearby Cleveland, where nursing salaries reach up to $37 hourly, the connected nature of our job market with neighboring cities creates a blend that can actually benefit local professionals.
As we examine the broader job market, Akron's nursing landscape appears robust and dynamic. We currently estimate around 5,200 registered nurses actively practicing in our city, with an added demand for roughly 1,000 new nurses projected to fill roles over the next few years due to projected healthcare expansions in our region. Travel nursing opportunities have been on the rise, especially during peak flu seasons in winter, but with a consistent influx of travelers during summer events and festivals, we see interest peak in these months, suggesting that Akron is becoming an evolving hotspot for nurses seeking temporary assignments. Per diem nursing roles are also significant; estimates suggest there are around 300 such positions filled by local professionals, fulfilling the need for flexible nursing care across various healthcare facilities. In contrast to cities like Canton and Youngstown, Akron boasts 3 major hospitals, including Summa Akron City Hospital and Akron Children's Hospital, providing diverse employment opportunities across various specialties, from pediatrics to critical care.
The healthcare infrastructure in Akron continues to develop, with recent investments aimed at enhancing our medical facilities and expanding services in areas like mental health, which is desperately needed in our community. With a current population of about 197,000 and modest growth projected at around 0.5% annually, our city is focused on public health initiatives dedicated to enhancing community health, driving the need for more public health nurses and related roles. Local lifestyle is vibrant and welcoming, with a rich arts scene and food culture that adds to the community’s appeal. Overall, our city’s job market for nurses is on an upward trajectory, supporting a lifestyle that balances professional growth with community engagement. If you’re ready to explore opportunities in Akron, I encourage you to sign up for NurseRecruiter, whether you're looking to connect with potential employers or seeking your next fulfilling role in nursing.