Caring for Des Moines: Where Hearts Meet Health

Here in Des Moines, Washington, nestled between the Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains, we are proud of our vibrant community and diverse nursing job market. Our city captures the charm of a suburban waterfront while being just a stone’s throw from Seattle's bustling metropolitan landscape. For local nurses and travel professionals alike, the area's nursing job market is both robust and inviting, with salary estimates for registered nurses typically ranging from $34.50 to $42.75 per hour, translating to annual earnings between $71,760 and $88,920. This range complements the state average of around $42 per hour and national averages near $37 per hour, showcasing our competitive positioning. With our serene parks like Saltwater State Park and the historic Des Moines Marina, we offer not just a job but a place where one's lifestyle thrives amidst nature and community.

I found exactly what I was looking for in Des Moines. Good hospitals, good people.

The nursing job market in Des Moines is poised for growth, with the need for skilled nurses anticipated to rise significantly over the next few years. Based on current state averages, NurseRecruiter estimates that approximately 1,800 registered nurses currently serve our community. Furthermore, with an aging population and increasing healthcare demands, we project that over 400 new nursing positions will open in the next three to five years, reflecting a steady demand for travel nurses and per diem roles. The market sees a modest influx of travel nursing positions during the summer months, coinciding with tourist season when the local healthcare facilities experience heightened patient activity. In contrast to nearby cities like Federal Way and Kent, which offer slightly lower salary ranges around the $30 to $39 per hour mark, Des Moines stands out for not just employment opportunities but also lifestyle offerings. Our local healthcare infrastructure is supported by several reputable hospitals, including St. Francis Hospital and MultiCare Tacoma General, each hiring nurses across various specialties, which solidifies our position as a nursing hub within the region.

Beyond immediate employment opportunities, the healthcare facilities in Des Moines are unrivaled in their approach to integrated care and specialization. With ongoing investments in public health initiatives and facility upgrades, including expansions at Coastal Community Action Program and Grace Adult Day Health Center, the future of nursing here looks bright. The current population of around 31,000 continues to grow steadily, leading to dynamic community engagement and public health programs. Local initiatives focus on reducing health disparities and promoting wellness, generating more job prospects for nursing professionals who are eager to make a difference. As our city flourishes, the lifestyle here is enriched by a close-knit community, local festivals, and quick access to the scenic beauty that the Pacific Northwest offers. I invite my fellow nurses—whether you’re a seasoned professional or considering a travel position in our region—to sign up for NurseRecruiter. It’s a great resource for job opportunities, and local healthcare employers can harness it to find the best talent right in our own backyard. Let's continue to build not just a career but a thriving community together.