Delaware, Ohio: A Thriving Nursing Job Market Balancing Small-Town Charm with Growing Healthcare Demand
Here in Delaware, Ohio, the nursing job market is as vibrant as the city itself, balancing a small-town charm with a growing healthcare demand. Known for its scenic parks and rich history, Delaware offers a comfortable lifestyle while providing an inviting environment for healthcare professionals. Based on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses in Ohio earn a mean annual salary of approximately $68,420, which translates to about $32.85 per hour. Delaware’s nursing salaries are estimated to range from $29.75 to $37.50 per hour, or approximately $61,850 to $78,000 per year. This aligns quite favorably with national trends, where registered nurses earn a mean salary around $79,270 yearly, but it remains competitive given our lower cost of living. As we enjoy the scenic beauty of the nearby Delaware State Park, the workforce is consistently reminded of the vital role nurses play in our community's health for both locals and visitors alike.
Examining the broader landscape of the nursing job market in Delaware, we see an encouraging trajectory. The city is projected to need approximately 150 new nursing professionals over the next five years to meet the increasing healthcare demands, which echoes the state’s broader need for nurses, estimated at a workforce growth of 12.2% for registered nurses through 2028. The existing nurse workforce in Delaware is approximately 1,200, largely employed in local healthcare facilities such as Grady Memorial Hospital, which consistently ranks among Ohio’s top hospitals. Delaware also offers a variety of travel nursing opportunities, particularly during the summer months when tourist demand surges. On average, there are around 50 travel nursing jobs available in the city at any given time. Comparatively, nearby cities like Marion, which has a robust but smaller nursing market, show slightly lower salaries, averaging around $28 to $35 per hour. Conversely, larger cities like Columbus boast higher salaries, but also a more competitive environment which may not appeal to all nurses seeking a community-focused workplace.
Delaware’s healthcare infrastructure reflects investment in our community, with an increasing number of clinics and specialty practices developing each year. Currently, we have several notable facilities, including urgent care clinics and rehabilitation centers, with specialty areas like geriatrics and pediatrics seeing substantial demand. Recent expansions at Grady Memorial and local investments into telehealth services underline a commitment to improving care delivery. The city is home to about 43,000 residents, with projections indicating a steady growth rate, which further ensures a continual need for nursing services. In terms of public health initiatives, Delaware actively promotes wellness programs and health education, making it an appealing destination for nurses interested in community engagement. Embracing our unique blend of small-town hospitality and a robust job market makes Delaware an ideal place for nursing professionals. If you're exploring nursing opportunities, I encourage you to sign up for NurseRecruiter, both to discover job matches tailored to your skills and aspirations, and to allow our local employers a chance to connect with dedicated nurses like us.
