Thriving Nursing Job Market in Federal Way, Washington: Competitive Salaries, Growing Demand, and a Unique Quality of Life Await Healthcare Professionals
Here in Federal Way, Washington, the nursing job market thrives amid the natural beauty that encapsulates our city. Nestled between Seattle and Tacoma, we enjoy the Pacific Northwest's lush greenery and vibrant waterfront, making it an appealing locale for healthcare professionals. Our nursing salaries reflect this unique positioning, with estimates from NurseRecruiter suggesting average hourly wages for registered nurses range from $36.00 to $44.00, translating to annual salaries between $74,880 and $91,520. In comparison, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for registered nurses in Washington is approximately $39.70 per hour or $82,680 per year, slightly higher than the national median of $38.80 hourly. Federal Way's close proximity to both Seattle and Tacoma provides a cultural richness and a diversity of healthcare opportunities that help nurses find satisfying career paths while enjoying the local attractions like the PowellsWood Garden and our scenic waterfront parks.
The nursing job market here is robust, with demand projected to increase significantly over the next few years. NurseRecruiter estimates we will need around 180 new nurses annually in Federal Way alone to meet the increasing demand spurred by population growth and healthcare needs. Currently, the city has an estimated 1,200 registered nurses working across various facilities, including multi-specialty hospitals and outpatient clinics. Travel nursing opportunities ebb and flow, particularly peaking during the summer months when many facilities in the area see an influx of patients. Nearby cities like Tacoma and Kent offer additional job prospects, with Tacoma having slightly higher average salaries but also a more competitive job market. Meanwhile, Kent features a growing healthcare environment with rising opportunities though with slightly lower salary ranges. Our main competitor in the region, Seattle, offers a wealth of opportunities but often has a higher cost of living that may not appeal to every nursing professional.
Our healthcare infrastructure in Federal Way comprises several notable facilities, including St. Francis Hospital, which has earned accolades for its comprehensive patient care and innovative specialties. Given the population of over 100,000, which has been steadily growing, the need for specialized nursing roles continues to rise. Recent investments in community health initiatives, along with a focus on preventative care and wellness programs, are improving public health outcomes and creating exciting career avenues for nurses in specialties like gerontology and pediatrics. With an active lifestyle that includes a strong sense of community, we not only boast a great work environment but also a quality of life enriched by outdoor recreation and cultural experiences. Those of us already here know the value of our community, and for prospective nurses, we invite you to explore the opportunities available. Sign up with NurseRecruiter today to find local job matches and see how you can become part of our vibrant workforce while supporting the health of our diverse population. And if you're an employer looking to connect with skilled nursing professionals, NurseRecruiter is the perfect platform for you to post jobs in our thriving market.
