Nursing Opportunities in Scranton's Heartbeat

Here in Scranton, Pennsylvania, the heart of the Lackawanna Valley, we are proud of our rich coal mining history and the beautiful landscapes surrounding our city. Known for our friendly community and vibrant local culture, Scranton is not only a great place to live but also a burgeoning hub for nursing professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2021, registered nurses nationwide earned a mean salary of approximately $38.10 per hour and an annual mean wage of around $79,000. In Pennsylvania, the figures are slightly lower, with the mean hourly wage at about $34.10 and an annual mean salary around $71,000. In our gritty yet charming city, the average nursing salary is estimated to range from $30 to $35 per hour depending on experience and specialty, with annual earnings between $62,000 to $72,000. Comparing ourselves with cities like Allentown and Bethlehem, which sit about an hour away, our pay scales can be slightly lower, but the cost of living here is considerably more affordable, giving us a unique edge in quality of life.

The teams I've worked with in Scranton have been some of the best in my career.

The nursing job market in Scranton is becoming increasingly robust as we adapt to growing healthcare needs. NurseRecruiter estimates about 3,500 registered nurses are currently employed within the city, with the healthcare landscape steadily expanding. Looking ahead, we anticipate that Scranton will need around 400 to 600 new RNs over the next five years to meet rising demands spurred by an aging population and evolving healthcare standards. Travel nursing positions, while not as prevalent here as in bigger cities like Philadelphia or New York, are still sought after, especially during peak seasons in the summer months when vacation coverage is needed. The per diem nursing market is also active, with various shifts available across hospitals and clinics, signifying a healthy ebb and flow in job opportunities. Scranton boasts several prominent healthcare facilities, including Geisinger Community Medical Center and Moses Taylor Hospital, which serve as major employers for nurses and often partner with local nursing schools for training and staffing.

As we explore our healthcare infrastructure, it's clear that Scranton is well-equipped and committed to delivering quality care. Major healthcare providers are looking to bolster their facilities to accommodate specialized nursing roles in areas like pediatrics and geriatrics, and recent investments of over $150 million into comprehensive services underscore that commitment. With a population of approximately 77,000, Scranton is experiencing a modest growth rate, projected to increase by about 0.5% annually over the next few years. Our strong sense of community makes for a fulfilling lifestyle, with family-friendly events, local festivals, and picturesque scenery throughout each season. Efforts to improve public health, such as nutrition initiatives and mental health awareness programs, are thriving, showcasing the city’s dedication to holistic care. As our healthcare landscape continues to evolve, I invite current and prospective nurses to consider Scranton for your nursing career. Join us on NurseRecruiter to find exciting local job opportunities and help shape the future of healthcare in our beloved city. Employers, you can likewise post your job openings on NurseRecruiter to connect with our talented nursing professionals.