Discover Carthage: A Charming Southern Town with Growing Nursing Opportunities and a Vibrant Community Lifestyle
Nestled in the heart of East Texas, Carthage is a charming small town known for its rich history, lush landscapes, and close-knit community feel. With its famous Texas-sized hospitality, it’s a place where the Southern culture thrives, marked by local events like the annual East Texas State Fair and unique landmarks such as the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame. For nursing professionals, Carthage presents an appealing job market. NurseRecruiter estimates that the average salary for registered nurses here ranges from $28.00 to $34.00 per hour, translating to an annual income between $58,240 and $70,720. This salary range is slightly lower than the Texas state average, which stands around $36.50 per hour and $76,080 annually, yet comparable to neighboring counties in the Piney Woods region. Despite these figures, the overall cost of living in Carthage remains quite favorable, making it an appealing option for both local nurses and travel nurses seeking a new adventure.
Carthage’s nursing job market is robust, reflecting a growing demand as healthcare needs expand in our community. With a population of approximately 6,000, we project an estimated number of 250 registered nurses currently employed in our city. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates a significant increase in the demand for nursing, with an expected need for about 30 new nurses annually over the next five years. Travel nursing also finds a niche here, especially during the summer months when local healthcare facilities often seek short-term staff to accommodate seasonal patient surges. As for per diem nursing, there is a vibrant market here, with around 50 such positions available at any given time. Notably, Carthage is home to both major employers like the Christus Good Shepherd Medical Center and numerous outpatient clinics, providing ample job opportunities for nurses. Comparing Carthage to larger cities like Longview and Tyler, we find that while salary ranges for nurses are slightly higher in those areas, the lifestyle in Carthage often attracts those looking for a more laid-back, close community vibe.
As far as healthcare infrastructure goes, Carthage maintains a solid network with several healthcare facilities needing specialized nursing roles. The Christus Good Shepherd Medical Center is the largest facility, known for a variety of services, including emergency care, surgery, and maternity units, while smaller clinics cater to preventive and primary care. Recently, our healthcare sector has seen investments aimed at upgrading facilities and expanding services to meet the growing health needs of our community. With an anticipated population growth rate of 0.8% over the next five years, new opportunities will continue to arise. Public health initiatives in the area, such as community vaccination drives and health education programs, further highlight our commitment to promoting health and wellness. Essentially, Carthage is a town that blends Southern charm with professional opportunity, making it an attractive location for both established nursing professionals and those just starting their careers. I invite you to explore opportunities in Carthage and sign up with NurseRecruiter for job matches or to post job opportunities if you’re an employer looking for local talent.
