Oklahoma's Thriving Nursing Job Market: Opportunities Abound in a Landscape of Community, Affordability, and Diverse Specialties
Here in Oklahoma, the nursing job market is as vibrant and diverse as our beautiful landscape, which stretches from the rolling plains to the rugged mountains. Our state is an emerging hub for healthcare professionals, especially nurses, with a focus on both full-time positions and travel nursing opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nurses in Oklahoma earn a mean hourly wage of approximately $30.12, with an annual salary averaging around $62,710; in contrast, the national averages are approximately $39.01 and $81,220, respectively. This disparity highlights the affordability of living in our state, where a harmonious blend of urban and rural life offers residents an inviting community atmosphere. Notable landmarks like the stunning Turner Falls and the lively Bricktown district in Oklahoma City provide both adventure and a quaint sense of home, enriching our lifestyle while highlighting the wide-ranging cultural tapestry that Oklahoma has to offer.
Analyzing the broader job market, I see that Oklahoma currently employs around 73,770 nurses, with a projected demand for over 6,000 additional nurses in the next five years as we face an aging population and increasing healthcare needs. In terms of travel nursing, opportunities are steadily growing, particularly during the peak flu season from October to March, when hospitals experience surges in patient volume. The per diem nursing market is also expanding, with many facilities seeking flexible staffing solutions; estimates suggest there are about 1,200 per diem nursing positions available statewide. Prominent employers include OU Medical Center, St. John Health System, and INTEGRIS Health, among others, which contribute significantly to our healthcare landscape. Unlike neighboring Texas, where salary scales often trend higher due to the size and scope of the healthcare system, Oklahoma's nursing job market offers a friendly cost of living and a supportive community. Indeed, readers can sign up for NurseRecruiter to browse local job matches tailored to their skills and preferences.
Our healthcare infrastructure supports a wide variety of specialties, from pediatrics to gerontology, with nearly 140 hospitals and numerous clinics throughout the state. Noteworthy investments in health technologies and primary care facilities showcase a commitment to improving healthcare delivery for Oklahomans. The state's population of approximately 4 million is projected to grow, ensuring that the demand for nursing services will remain robust. Public health initiatives, such as the Oklahoma Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust, further enhance the community's health landscape and expand nursing roles in prevention and education. As we work in a state rich in opportunity and steeped in hospitality, our nursing professionals benefit not only from a fulfilling career but also a quality lifestyle filled with community events, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. Together, let us harness the potential of Oklahoma’s nursing job market, and I encourage both current and prospective nurses to connect with job opportunities through NurseRecruiter, while employers can likewise find talented local candidates using the platform.
