Wilkes Barre: A Thriving Hub for Nursing Opportunities Amidst Rich Community and Healthcare Growth
Here in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, nestled in the scenic foothills of the Endless Mountains, we enjoy a vibrant community replete with rich history and a burgeoning nursing job market. The local healthcare landscape is expanding, driven by our diverse populations in need of robust care. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses in Pennsylvania earned a mean salary of approximately $36.85 per hour or $76,711 annually, while the Wilkes Barre area offers competitive pay ranging from $34.50 to $38 per hour, translating to an annual salary between $71,760 and $79,040. This contrasts favorably with the national average of $38.47 per hour or $79,850 annually. Our city is not just known for local staples like the iconic Luzerne County Courthouse or the vibrant River Common but also as a healthcare hub with hospitals, outpatient services, and specialty clinics making up our healthcare backbone.
Diving deeper into the job market, we can expect significant growth over the next few years due to a projected increase in local population and healthcare demands. Estimates suggest that Wilkes Barre will need about 150 to 200 new nurses in the next 3-5 years, thanks in part to retirements and a growing emphasis on preventive and long-term care. In our current workforce, there are roughly 1,200 nurses employed in the area. Notably, travel nursing in Wilkes Barre sees a spike during the summer months when seasonal activity peaks and healthcare facilities seek to cover vacationing staff. Per diem opportunities are abundant as well, with estimates indicating that around 250 per diem nursing positions circulate throughout the city’s hospitals and clinics. When compared to nearby cities like Scranton and Hazleton, Wilkes Barre stands out with its community-centered approach and supportive work environments while offering competitive pay and a lower cost of living.
Our healthcare infrastructure is solid, with prominent institutions such as Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center and Wilkes Barre General Hospital driving a wide range of specialties that include trauma, pediatrics, and geriatrics. Recent investments in local healthcare facilities are promising, with expansions focused on outpatient services and mental health resources, reflecting community needs. As we continue to grow, the population of Wilkes Barre stands at roughly 40,000 residents, with a slight upward trend projected in the coming years due to ongoing development projects aimed at attracting new families and professionals. Our local culture is as warm as our healthcare system, offering open community spaces like the River Common and vibrant events though the year, from the annual Fine Arts Fiesta to local farmers' markets. We have public health initiatives targeting wellness and disease prevention that further enrich our nursing roles, fostering an environment where nurses truly make a difference in our lives. For those of us here or even considering joining our vibrant nursing community, NurseRecruiter offers a great platform to connect with local job opportunities and allows employers to find the best candidates right here in Wilkes Barre.
