Caring Hearts Thrive in Watertown's Waters

Here in Watertown, South Dakota, our serene city is nestled among beautiful lakes and scenic landscapes, embodying both quiet charm and vibrancy. With a population of approximately 22,000, we enjoy a close-knit community feel while also supporting a robust healthcare sector. The nursing job market here is promising — with registered nurses’ average salary hovering around $29.16 per hour, translating to about $60,758 annually, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This figure is above the state median hourly wage of $28.33 for nurses and on par with the national average of $37.31. It’s a comfortable wage, especially considering our relatively low cost of living. While we aren't the bustling metropolis that some nearby cities like Sioux Falls are, an inviting lifestyle and strong community ties make Watertown an excellent place for nurses to grow professionally while relishing in the small-town atmosphere.

I wanted a place where I could make a real difference. Watertown gave me that.

Examining the broader job market here, NurseRecruiter estimates our city will need around 200 additional registered nurses over the next five years to keep pace with growing healthcare demands fueled by an aging population. Presently, our nurse workforce consists of approximately 450 RNs, demonstrating that we are a vital link in providing care to our community. With significant healthcare facilities like the Prairie Lakes Healthcare System and multiple clinics, employment opportunities abound; however, the rise of travel nursing has also impacted our local market. Seasonal demand for travel nurses tends to peak during the summer months as tourism increases, offering unique opportunities for those drawn to short-term assignments. Comparing us to Sioux Falls, our job market is steadier and perhaps even more desirable for those seeking a life experienced in nursing without the fast-paced lifestyle of the city. In contrast, Aberdeen to the northeast showcases a similarly sized market but tends to have more competition in terms of salaries and nursing opportunities.

As we explore Watertown’s healthcare infrastructure, it’s apparent that investment in our local healthcare facilities continues to spark improvement and growth. We host several specialized services, from orthopedic care to behavioral health, thus broadening our job market for nurses with varied specialties. Ongoing developments further promise to bolster our capacity — recent expansions at the Prairie Lakes Healthcare System enhance their service offerings to our growing population, which is projected to increase slightly over the next five years. Community initiatives focusing on public health emphasize preventative care and health education, encouraging nurses to play pivotal roles in shaping local health outcomes. Living here means enjoying an idyllic lifestyle filled with outdoor recreation, local events, and cultural experiences, all while contributing meaningfully to the well-being of our community. For those of us in or considering entering the nursing profession here, this city represents a wonderful blend of opportunity and quality of life. I encourage fellow nurses to sign up with NurseRecruiter to find job opportunities tailored to our local market, while employers can utilize the platform to connect with the talented workforce we have in our midst. In Watertown, we offer a nurturing environment for both the community we love and the careers we cherish.