Youngstown's Nursing Job Market Thrives: Competitive Salaries, Growing Demand, and Expanding Opportunities in a Resilient Community
Here in Youngstown, we are witnessing a significant evolution in our nursing job market, reflecting a rich tapestry of community spirit and healthcare need. Located in the heart of the Mahoning Valley, we pride ourselves on our resilient character and vibrant local culture. With an average annual salary for nurses standing around $65,000, the figures are competitive with the Ohio state average of approximately $67,000 and align closely with the national average of about $75,000. We frequently showcase our city’s industrial heritage alongside the progressive healthcare developments occurring here. As healthcare facilities continue to expand their services, coupled with the proximity of cities like Akron and Cleveland which offer additional job opportunities, we are increasingly becoming a hub for both local and travel nurses.
Analyzing the broader job market, we can see that Youngstown’s nursing workforce is robust and growing. NurseRecruiter estimates that there are currently about 3,600 registered nurses employed in our city, with a projected demand for an additional 660 nurses over the next five years, driven by an aging population and increasing healthcare needs. Travel nursing gigs are slowly emerging here, primarily during summertime when our hospitals see more patients than usual, primarily related to seasonal health issues. Per diem nursing opportunities are also on the rise, with estimates suggesting nearly 250 available positions in various healthcare facilities. As far as competition goes, nearby cities like Akron offer a similar number of positions and salary calculations, but Cleveland expands on those figures with higher salaries due to a larger number of hospitals, including the esteemed Cleveland Clinic. In contrast, Youngstown maintains a favorable cost of living, which creates a unique draw for new healthcare professionals looking for a fulfilling lifestyle.
Our healthcare infrastructure is constantly evolving; Youngstown boasts several major hospitals, including Mercy Health — St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital and a number of specialty clinics that service diverse populations. Recently, our region has seen investments aimed at improving healthcare facilities and developing nursing specialties, particularly in geriatrics and primary care as they pertain to chronic illness management. With a growing population currently around 65,000, Youngstown is poised for further healthcare expansion. Public health initiatives, especially those targeting community health promotions and preventive care, actively engage local nurses, illustrating just how expansive and pivotal our roles are within healthcare. By integrating these dimensions—community character, thriving healthcare infrastructure, and ongoing investment—Youngstown presents an attractive landscape for nursing professionals. I encourage my fellow nurses to check out NurseRecruiter for local job matches and explore the potential our city has to offer. Employers can also leverage NurseRecruiter to connect with skilled candidates right here in our dynamic community.