Nurture Care Amid Chelan's Scenic Splendor

Nestled in the stunning Cascade Mountains and located near the shores of Lake Chelan, our beautiful town of Chelan, Washington, offers not just picturesque landscapes but also a burgeoning nursing job market. With its population hovering around 4,000 residents, Chelan’s small-town charm is complemented by an increasing healthcare demand, especially as tourism swells during the summer months. Here, the average salary for nurses tends to range from $32 to $45 per hour, which translates to an annual salary between $66,560 and $93,600. This is slightly beneath the Washington state average of $37.95 per hour and $78,860 annually, and significantly lower than the national averages of $41.54 per hour and $86,760 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The allure of Chelan lies not only in the tranquil lifestyle it offers but also in its vibrant nursing community that is steadily growing to meet the demands of both locals and the influx of travelers.

Don't overlook Chelan. I almost did, and I'm glad I gave it a chance.

The nursing job market in Chelan is projected to be quite robust in the coming years. As our community grows and the need for healthcare services expands, NurseRecruiter estimates that Chelan will need an additional 75 new nurses in the next 3-5 years. The current nurse workforce in Chelan is approximately 450 strong, which means we currently have around 11.3% of the town’s population engaged in this vital profession. Additionally, travel nursing is becoming an option for many due to our seasonal tourism spikes; peak demand typically arises during the summer and harvest seasons when visitor numbers surge. NurseRecruiter estimates that there are about 25 travel nursing positions available, while per diem jobs fluctuate but average 15-20 openings at any given time. Nearby cities, such as Wenatchee and Moses Lake, offer additional healthcare opportunities with greater job supplies; however, they also show varying salary brackets from $35 to $49 per hour for nursing roles. Chelan’s charm lies in its lifestyle—easy access to outdoor activities and a close-knit community—to which our nurses truly contribute.

Healthcare resources in Chelan include the Lake Chelan Community Hospital, which serves as a cornerstone for local medical services, along with numerous outpatient clinics and specialized facilities addressing public health initiatives, preventive care, and community wellness. The town’s population is expected to grow modestly over the next several years, fostering the need for enhanced healthcare infrastructure and nursing resources. With ongoing investments in healthcare facilities and services aimed at improving community health, our local nurses hold an indispensable role in shaping the wellness of Chelan’s residents. The lifestyle here blends a love for adventure with community support, offering a unique atmosphere for those who work in nursing. As we look to the future, public health initiatives focusing on mental health and chronic disease management highlight evolving nursing roles. For current and prospective nurses looking to make a meaningful impact in a picturesque environment, sign up for job opportunities on NurseRecruiter and explore what our lively and essential nursing job market has to offer.