Nursing Careers Flourish in Duncan’s Heart

Here in Duncan, Oklahoma, nestled in the heart of the state, we pride ourselves on a community that values healthcare and the dedicated nursing professionals who power it. Our city, known for its warm small-town charm and rich history, is home to approximately 23,000 residents. With a nursing job market that reflects both national and state trends, the average salary for nurses here ranges from $26.45 to $34.15 per hour, which translates to an annual salary between $55,000 and $71,000. This is in line with the national mean hourly wage of $37.24 (approximately $77,000 annually) as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, but with the understanding that our local cost of living is considerably lower than in urban centers. As we focus on our local structures, it’s worth noting that Duncan's accessible local attractions, like the Apache Casino and the serene Great Plains Nature Center, enhance our community’s lifestyle, making it a wonderful place for nurses to live and work.

I wanted a place where I could make a real difference. Duncan gave me that.

Analyzing our nursing job market, it’s clear that Duncan is experiencing substantial growth. Over the next five years, NurseRecruiter estimates that we will need around 80 to 100 additional nurses to keep pace with demand in our local facilities, which include the Duncan Regional Hospital and several clinics and specialized care centers. Currently, there are around 350 registered nurses employed, with an increasing interest in both travel nursing and per diem roles due to the flexibility they offer. Travel nursing here tends to peak during the summer months when health facilities often see an influx of patients, while per diem jobs offer nurses the chance to fill gaps in staffing across the various healthcare organizations here. When we glance at nearby cities such as Lawton, Chickasha, and Marlow, we observe that while they have similar healthcare needs, our salary averages are competitive, and our lifestyle remains appealing due to Duncan's more affordable living situation.

As we explore our healthcare infrastructure, Duncan hosts a blend of essential services that cater to our community's health needs. With approximately six major healthcare facilities, including urgent care clinics and rehabilitation centers, there’s a demand for diverse nursing specialties, particularly those focusing on geriatric care and urgent care. Recent investments in telehealth services and outpatient facilities indicate a progressive trend in our healthcare system, promising increased opportunities for nurses looking to advance their careers. Our city is projected to see a modest population growth rate, ensuring continued support for public health initiatives that address common concerns, ranging from chronic diseases to preventive care. By highlighting our community's warmth, beautiful surroundings, and the solid job market for healthcare professionals, I invite my fellow nurses to consider Duncan not just as a place to work, but as a place to forge a meaningful career. Join us here, where you can find fulfilling nursing opportunities and contribute to a community that celebrates and supports its healthcare heroes. If you’re looking for nursing job matches or want to explore local postings, I encourage you to sign up for NurseRecruiter, ensuring that our dedicated workforce continues to thrive and meet the needs of those we serve.