Bristow, Oklahoma: A Hidden Gem for Nursing Professionals with Growing Opportunities and a Vibrant Community Life
Nestled in the heart of Oklahoma, Bristow offers both a sense of small-town charm and a vibrant healthcare landscape for nursing professionals. As a local nurse, I've seen how our town, known for its rolling hills and proximity to the beautiful Coweta Creek, serves as an ideal backdrop for those in the nursing field. The average salary for nurses here is estimated to be between $24 and $29 per hour, translating to an annual income of around $50,000 to $60,000. Comparably, on a state level, Oklahoma’s average hourly wage stands at approximately $29, with a yearly salary around $60,000, and nationally, nurses earn an average of $37.31 per hour or $77,600 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. While our pay rate might not rival that of larger urban centers, the quality of life, sense of community, and proximity to nature certainly make it appealing. Many of us are proud to call Bristow home, and the appeal is compounded by our welcoming atmosphere and unique local culture, including local events like the annual Bristow Rodeo.
As I dive deeper into the nursing job market in Bristow, the outlook appears bright. With a population of around 4,200, the demand for nursing professionals is steadily increasing, and it is estimated that we will need around 60 new nurses over the next five years based on current growth trends in healthcare needs. Furthermore, our local healthcare facilities, including Bristow Regional Hospital and numerous clinics, directly impact the roughly 180 nurses currently working in the area. The travel nursing sector, while not as robust as in larger cities, can see seasonal spikes, especially during flu season or in the summer, as regional travel nurses seek short-term placements here. Per diem nursing opportunities are also available but tend to fluctuate throughout the year, corresponding with staffing demands. If we extend our gaze towards nearby cities like Coweta and Tulsa, the job market becomes more vibrant, with Tulsa offering more competitive salaries in the range of $34 to $39 per hour due to its larger hospital systems and higher demand, creating a contrast with our more relaxed lifestyle in Bristow.
Our healthcare infrastructure, although modest, is equipped with several facilities that fulfill varying specialty needs. With Bristow Regional Hospital at the forefront, we also benefit from access to telemedicine and specialized clinics, catering to a range of nursing specialties, including geriatrics and emergency care. Recent investments in the healthcare sector are reflective of a community invested in improving public health, and the collaborative spirit among nurses and healthcare professionals here is palpable. We have a passionate population dedicated to growth, and according to the U.S. Census Bureau, Bristow is projecting a steady growth rate, which will further stimulate the demand for nursing services. The local lifestyle, characterized by friendly faces, outdoor activities, and rich cultural history, helps foster an environment where nurses can thrive both personally and professionally. As I reflect on the opportunities that lay ahead in our nursing job market, I encourage my fellow nursing professionals—whether local or considering a travel position—to take a closer look at Bristow and explore what we have to offer by signing up with NurseRecruiter. Employers seeking to grow their teams can also turn to NurseRecruiter to find dedicated local talent ready to make a difference in our community.
