Nursing Careers as Bright as Highland Peaks

Here in Highland, Utah, we find ourselves at the intersection of stunning natural beauty and a vibrant healthcare job market. Nestled at the foothills of the picturesque Wasatch Range, Highland is known for its family-oriented atmosphere, flourishing community events, and an impressive array of outdoor activities that make it a desirable place to both live and work. Our city, with a population of around 18,000, has been experiencing steady growth, making it an appealing destination for nursing professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for nurses in Utah is approximately $36.87 per hour or about $76,600 annually. Given our city’s unique healthcare needs and its proximity to urban centers like Provo and Lehi, I estimate the salary range for nurses here in Highland to be between $34.50 and $39.75 per hour. This competitive range reflects not only our state averages but also our local demand for quality healthcare, especially as the city continues to grow. Highland stands in contrast to nearby cities such as Provo, where the average nursing salary is slightly higher, yet the living expenses may offset potential earnings.

The pace in Highland lets me focus on what matters—my patients and my growth.

Examining the broader job market, Highland offers a robust nursing landscape, ripe with opportunities for both the established nurse and newcomers alike. NurseRecruiter estimates that over the next three to five years, we will need around 50 new nurses to meet the growing demand, particularly as our population swells and our healthcare facilities expand. Currently, with more than 600 employed nurses in our city, the local healthcare scene is thriving, including major employers like Mountain Point Medical Center and our local clinics which cater specifically to family healthcare, pediatrics, and emergency services. While travel nursing jobs are less prevalent here in Highland compared to bigger metropolitan areas like Salt Lake City, we do see some seasonal trends where healthcare facilities ramp up staffing before busy holiday periods, particularly to accommodate winter sports-related injuries. Per diem opportunities are gradually gaining traction as well, estimated at about 30 positions available at any given time, allowing flexibility for our nursing workforce. In contrast, nearby cities such as Lehi and Provo offer larger healthcare facilities and a wider array of job opportunities, although Highland’s charm and community-focused lifestyle might make it the ideal place for many healthcare professionals.

Our healthcare infrastructure here in Highland includes a well-equipped hospital, community health clinics, and specialized facilities, ensuring that we provide comprehensive care for our residents. Recent investments in local healthcare services, such as the expansion of the Mountain Point Medical Center, reflect a commitment to evolving our healthcare landscape to better meet the needs of a growing population. As our city embraces growth, the focus on public health initiatives—like preventive care programs and mental health awareness campaigns—creates an exciting atmosphere for nursing professionals seeking to make a positive impact in their community. With a projected 4% population growth over the next few years, Highland is not only a nurturing environment for patients but also a burgeoning hub for nurses. It’s an enriching place to build your career, and I encourage my fellow nursing professionals to look into opportunities available locally with NurseRecruiter, where both job seekers and employers can connect effectively. Together, we can enhance our community’s health and wellbeing, while living amidst the stunning beauty that Highland has to offer.