Oklahoma City's Thriving Nursing Job Market: Discover Competitive Salaries, Growing Opportunities, and a Community Committed to Health and Wellness
Here in Oklahoma City, nestled among the gently rolling plains and surrounded by the warmth of Midwestern hospitality, we have a thriving nursing job market that pulses with opportunity. From the iconic Devon Tower to the vibrant Bricktown district, our city is more than just a place to work—it's a community deeply invested in health and wellness, reflected in our commitment to nursing care. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage for registered nurses in Oklahoma is approximately $66,470, translating to an hourly rate of about $31.98. In Oklahoma City, I estimate our nursing salaries to range from $64,000 to $70,000 annually, a competitive figure that competes favorably with neighboring states. With a vibrant cultural scene, a low cost of living, and a burgeoning healthcare sector, our city is both an appealing and practical choice for nurses seeking job stability and professional growth.
The nursing job market here is filled with promise; the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals in Oklahoma City is driven by population growth and an aging demographic. The Oklahoma Nursing Workforce Center projects that we will need approximately 1,500 new nurses in the next five years, a substantial push given that our current nursing workforce is around 11,000 strong. Notably, travel nursing positions are becoming increasingly available, especially during peak seasons associated with summer and flu season, as hospitals seek temporary staff to manage increased patient loads. Per diem nursing jobs also contribute significantly to our market, especially as nurses often turn to flexible shifts that allow for work-life balance. Major employers here include INTEGRIS Health, OU Medicine, and the Veteran Affairs Medical Center, with numerous clinics and outpatient facilities rounding out our healthcare landscape. In contrast, nearby cities like Tulsa offer different opportunities and salary ranges, with their average RN salaries hovering around $64,000, showcasing the competitive nature of nursing across the state. However, the lifestyle, community engagement, and ease of commuting to surrounding areas like Norman and Edmond set Oklahoma City apart.
Oklahoma City's healthcare infrastructure is robust, housing over 20 hospitals and numerous community clinics that cater to a diverse array of specialties, including oncology, pediatrics, and trauma care. The continued investment in new facilities and upgrades, highlighted by recent expansions at OU Medicine and INTEGRIS, showcases our commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery. With a population of approximately 670,000 and steady growth anticipated over the next decade, the community's focus on health initiatives—ranging from preventative care to mental health programs—affects nursing roles significantly. Our lifestyle is rooted in a blend of urban excitement and suburban serenity, where community events and local attractions make it a great place to live and work. By joining our nursing workforce, you’ll not only find opportunities within a thriving system but also actively engage with a community that values your skills and contributions. If you're seeking new positions or employers looking to fill nursing roles, signing up for NurseRecruiter provides invaluable access to job opportunities that suit your aspirations and allows all of us to shape the future of healthcare right here in Oklahoma City.
