Thriving Nursing Job Market in Tulsa: Competitive Salaries, Growing Opportunities, and a Commitment to Community Wellness
Here in Tulsa, Oklahoma, a city characterized by its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and renowned Southern hospitality, the nursing job market is teeming with opportunity and growth. Nestled along the Arkansas River, Tulsa boasts a dynamic healthcare landscape that attracts both seasoned professionals and enterprising newcomers looking to make a difference. The average salary for nurses in our charming city ranges from approximately $28.30 to $36.50 per hour, which translates to an annual salary between $58,904 and $76,133 based on a 40-hour work week. This is quite competitive compared to the statewide average (around $27.69 hourly or $57,647 annually) and the national figures (approximately $34.65 hourly and $72,410 annually). As a local, I truly believe that what makes Tulsa unique isn’t just the cost of living or salary metrics, but our commitment to community wellness, underscored by our iconic landmarks such as the Crystal Bridge at the Tulsa Botanic Garden and our celebrated Blue Dome District.
In recent years, our nursing job market has seen robust growth. NurseRecruiter estimates that Tulsa will need around 1,500 new nurses over the next five years to meet increasing healthcare demands, particularly as our population continues to expand, currently hovering around 400,000. With close to 5,000 employed nurses in the city, this indicates a concurrent demand that is both urgent and promising. Travel nursing remains a viable option in Tulsa, with peak seasons in the summer months due to increased patient volumes associated with seasonal illnesses. Additionally, per diem nursing is a busy alternative, with several healthcare institutions offering flexible shifts to meet fluctuating patient needs. Notable employers in our region include Saint Francis Health System and Tulsa Spine & Specialty Hospital. Comparing ourselves to nearby cities like Broken Arrow, where average nursing salaries are similar but employment opportunities fewer, or Owasso—slightly to the North, where the demand is growing, yet the competition remains tight—it’s clear that Tulsa stands out as a hotspot for nurses searching for fulfilling careers.
Tulsa’s healthcare infrastructure is continuously evolving, with numerous facilities dedicated to diverse specialties, including pediatrics, oncology, and cardiac care. The recent expansion of Saint John Health System and the planned improvements at Hillcrest HealthCare System demonstrate our commitment to upgrading facilities and care options uniquely tailored to community needs. As someone who has lived here all my life, I can't help but share my pride in our community's efforts towards public health initiatives, including vibrant vaccination campaigns and health fairs aimed at promoting wellness across demographics. Indeed, we have a growing population that’s projected to increase over the next decade, making our community an attractive environment for both current and prospective nursing professionals. Whether you’re a seasoned nurse looking to advance or someone eager to join our ranks, I encourage you to check out NurseRecruiter for a plethora of job opportunities. Employers can also leverage NurseRecruiter to connect with qualified local candidates who are ready to embrace the challenges and rewards of nursing in Tulsa. By fostering such connections, we can ensure that our healthcare landscape continues to flourish, benefitting both patients and providers alike.
