Wilkes Barre: A Thriving Nursing Career Hub with Competitive Salaries and Expanding Opportunities in the Heart of Wyoming Valley
Here in Wilkes Barre, a city nestled in the heart of the Wyoming Valley, we remain rich in both history and healthcare opportunities. The local nursing job market thrives, shaped by our vibrant community and the numerous healthcare facilities that call this area home. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that the national median hourly wage for registered nurses is around $39.90, equating to an annual salary of approximately $82,750. In Pennsylvania, the mean hourly wage is slightly lower, around $35.85, with an annual salary of $74,600. In Wilkes Barre, however, local nurses can expect to see salaries ranging from $32 to $38 per hour, translating to an annual income between $66,560 and $79,040. Each corner of our city, from the bustling Public Square to the serene River Common, serves as a backdrop to the dedication we find in healthcare, supported by our strong ties to local hospitals like Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center and Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center.
Our nursing job market is robust and continues to show growth. As of 2023, NurseRecruiter estimates there are approximately 3,200 nurses currently employed in Wilkes Barre. Given the projected 10% increase in healthcare job demand over the next five years, we anticipate needing around 300 new nurses to meet this essential workforce requirement. Travel nursing opportunities are also budding in our region, especially during peak seasons such as summer and flu seasons, with estimates suggesting we have around 150 active travel nursing positions on average at any given time. Equally, the per diem nursing role in our city reflects a dynamic landscape, with about 200 positions available —providing a unique opportunity for flexibility and variety in shifts. Compared with nearby Scranton, where the average salary is similar yet the job market offers fewer travel nursing opportunities, Wilkes Barre stands out as a hotspot for innovative healthcare solutions.
The healthcare infrastructure in Wilkes Barre boasts a variety of facilities, including major healthcare systems like Commonwealth Health and Geisinger, both of which continually invest in expanding their services to cater to community needs. Recent developments have ushered in updated facilities focusing on specialties like geriatrics and cardiac care, highlighting our commitment to specialized patient care. As we embrace a population close to 40,000, growing at a modest rate, our nursing workforce remains pivotal to promoting public health initiatives, particularly with programs aimed at chronic disease management and preventive care. The cultural fabric of our city is woven with festivals, community events, and a rich heritage, making Wilkes Barre an attractive place to live and work. For fellow nursing professionals and prospective nurses looking for opportunities, signing up to NurseRecruiter can connect you with local job matches, while employers can find talent ready to contribute to our community's health. Here in Wilkes Barre, we take pride in our healthcare service, and the future looks bright for nursing in our city.
