Nursing Opportunities by the Beautiful Bay

Bellingham, Washington, is a vibrant city perched between the stunning San Juan Islands and the lush peaks of the Cascades, making it a breathtaking place not only to live but also to work in healthcare. Here, we have a growing nursing job market framed against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty, bustling local shops, and a rich blend of cultures. As a local nurse, I can share that the average salary for registered nurses in Bellingham ranges from $36.50 to $42.50 per hour, translating to an annual wage between approximately $76,000 and $88,400—figures that are competitive when contrasted with Washington’s state averages of $38.00 hourly and $79,000 annually, and the national averages of $37.90 hourly and $78,000 annually, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Bellingham stands out from larger metropolitan areas like Seattle or Tacoma, where the hustle and bustle brings slightly higher wages at the expense of higher living costs. Here in Bellingham, we blend incredible work-life balance with the opportunity to make a real impact in our community through nursing.

The teams I've worked with in Bellingham have been some of the best in my career.

Our local nursing job market reflects a robust growth trend, as Bellingham's population has been steadily rising; estimates suggest we need an additional 200 to 300 nurses over the next few years to meet the demand driven by our expanding healthcare facilities and specialized services. The current workforce in Bellingham consists of around 1,200 nurses, reflecting a burgeoning market currently supported by major players like PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center and several local clinics. The demand for travel nursing here has shown some fluctuation, drawing significant activity during our peak tourist seasons in summer and winter, where temporary staffing needs often rise substantially. While not as bustling as travel nursing hubs like San Francisco or New York, Bellingham offers solid opportunities for nurses who enjoy adventure. Per diem nursing jobs, providing flexibility and autonomy, represent another substantial segment of our market. Estimates indicate that there are several dozen per diem roles available at any time, allowing nurses with varied schedules to fill in where needed throughout our numerous healthcare providers.

In Bellingham, our healthcare infrastructure is enriched by diverse medical facilities that foster a range of specialty nursing roles, from pediatrics at the renowned PeaceHealth Children's Hospital to geriatric care in skilled nursing facilities, addressing the needs of our increasingly aging population. Recent investments from healthcare providers are improving infrastructure and patient resources—this includes planned expansions at local hospitals and clinics expected to enhance our community's overall health outcomes well into the next decade. Alongside these developments, Bellingham offers a high quality of life with access to outdoor adventures, proximity to beautiful waterfronts, and a supportive community atmosphere. With a population nearing 92,000, the city continues to grow, reinforcing healthcare initiatives targeting chronic health issues and emphasizing preventive care, which directly increases the demand for skilled nursing professionals. Whether you’re a seasoned nurse or considering a travel nursing assignment here, Bellingham provides an appealing mix of natural beauty, thriving community, and ample job opportunities. If you're ready to explore what our local job market has to offer, I encourage you to sign up with NurseRecruiter; it's an excellent resource for finding local job matches and discovering where your unique skills will have the most impact. Employers too can utilize NurseRecruiter to connect with talented candidates who are eager to join our friendly healthcare landscape.