Oklahoma’s Booming Nursing Job Market: Competitive Salaries, Expanding Opportunities, and a Thriving Healthcare Landscape Await Professionals
Here in Oklahoma, the nursing job market is thriving, bolstered by our rich heritage and rapidly developing healthcare sector. Nurses across the state enjoy favorable salaries compared to the national scene; as of May 2022, the mean annual salary for registered nurses in Oklahoma was approximately $67,180, with an hourly wage of around $32.29. In contrast, the national mean annual salary for nurses is about $82,750, translating to an hourly rate of $39.75. While this statistic shows that we may not quite reach the national average, many of us appreciate the lower cost of living, making those salaries go a bit further. Oklahoma's unique blend of lush landscapes, like the rolling hills of the Osage, natural parks, and vibrant urban centers like Oklahoma City and Tulsa, creates an inviting atmosphere for both local nursing professionals and travelers looking for opportunities.
As for the job market itself, Oklahoma currently employs a significant workforce of around 77,070 registered nurses, navigating through a robust landscape of opportunities. The demand for healthcare professionals is expected to grow, with an estimated addition of approximately 7,600 nurses needed statewide over the next few years to meet patient demand. Interestingly, travel nursing has also gained traction here, especially during peak seasons around summer and winter; we often see an influx of temporary positions due to the seasonal nature of various healthcare facilities and the demand for additional support during flu season. Alongside this, we have a burgeoning per diem market that offers flexibility for nurses, with an estimation of nearly 7,000 per diem positions available statewide. Highlighting the scale of our healthcare resources, Oklahoma boasts over 156 hospitals and numerous clinics, with prominent employers including Integris Health and OU Medicine leading the charge. Although some neighboring states may offer higher salaries, our friendly communities and diverse range of nursing opportunities create a welcoming environment for us to flourish.
Looking deeper into our healthcare infrastructure, there have been increased investments in facilities and technology across Oklahoma in recent years, especially with initiatives aimed at expanding mental health services and enhancing critical care capacities. As we strive to serve a growing population of approximately 4 million, our communities are welcoming increasing numbers of healthcare practitioners, which in turn positively impacts the lifestyle and health of residents. Public health initiatives like the Oklahoma Health Improvement Plan and various community outreach programs are redefining the role of nurses in our state. As we navigate this vibrant professional landscape, now is the perfect time to consider Oklahoma for your next nursing adventure. I encourage you to sign up with NurseRecruiter to connect with local job opportunities and see the various roles available in our dynamic communities. Employers in our state can also benefit from using NurseRecruiter to find talented local candidates and streamline their hiring processes. Whether you’re an established nursing professional or are contemplating travel nursing, Oklahoma welcomes you with open arms and numerous opportunities.
