Thriving Nursing Job Market in Allentown, Pennsylvania: A Promising Career Destination with Competitive Salaries and Vibrant Community Life
Here in Allentown, Pennsylvania, we pride ourselves on our rich history and vibrant community spirit, set against the backdrop of the Lehigh Valley’s stunning landscapes. The nursing job market in our city is flourishing, making it an attractive place for both local nursing professionals and those looking to travel. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average registered nurse in Pennsylvania earns around $36.79 per hour, translating to an annual salary of approximately $76,650. In Allentown, we can estimate the nursing salaries to range between $34.50 and $39.50 per hour, accounting for factors like experience and specialty areas. This places us competitively above the national mean wage for nurses, which is about $37.24 per hour or $77,600 annually. Allentown’s unique blend of historical charm with modern amenities—including the iconic Liberty Bell Museum and beautiful parks—creates a compelling quality of life that adds to our appeal as a nursing destination.
The nursing job market in Allentown is robust, with growth projections looking strong for the next several years. NurseRecruiter estimates that we will need approximately 920 new nurses in the next five years to meet demands, reflecting a significant portion of an estimated 4,600 nurses currently employed in the city. While travel nursing is more prominent in larger metropolitan areas, Allentown does see a seasonal influx of travel nurses, particularly during flu season and peak summer months when hospitals tend to have higher patient volumes. The per diem nursing market is also notable, with many local healthcare facilities relying on flexible staffing solutions. We have a good number of major employers in the area, including Lehigh Valley Health Network and St. Luke’s University Health Network, which comprise the backbone of our nursing community. In nearby cities like Bethlehem and Easton, nursing salaries are comparable, typically ranging between $34.00 and $38.00 per hour, but Allentown stands out for offering more diverse job opportunities alongside a more vibrant community culture.
As we look at our healthcare infrastructure, Allentown is home to several hospitals and specialty clinics that cater to a wide range of health needs, from primary care to specialized treatment options. The city has seen ongoing investments in healthcare facilities, including expansions of St. Luke's University Health Network. We are part of a growing metropolitan area, with a current population of about 121,000 that has been steadily increasing, contributing to the demand for nursing professionals. Community health initiatives, such as immunization drives and health education programs, further solidify the essential role that nurses play in our society. Allentown not only offers a reliable job market for nurses but also a welcoming community often bustling with cultural attractions, from music festivals to farmers' markets. Whether you are a seasoned nursing professional or considering your next career move, I invite you to explore the opportunities here. Sign up with NurseRecruiter to find local job matches tailored for you, and employers can use it to connect with our talented nursing workforce in Allentown.