Kirkland's Heart Beats in Nursing Care

Nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Washington, right across from Seattle, we here in Kirkland enjoy a vibrant community known for its picturesque parks, waterfront views, and a growing economy. The nursing job market in Kirkland reflects a healthy demand in a city that’s increasingly being recognized as a hub for healthcare innovation. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for registered nurses in Washington State is approximately $79,749 with a median hourly wage of around $38.32. However, in Kirkland specifically, I would estimate that the salary range for nurses hovers between $83,000 to $88,000 annually, slightly above the state average, thanks to the city's strong economic base and the presence of numerous healthcare facilities like EvergreenHealth Medical Center and Overlake Medical Center. We enjoy our exceptional access to nature, with trails and parks like Juanita Bay Park and Marina Park, making this an idyllic place for both work and leisure.

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

When assessing the robustness of Kirkland’s nursing job market, trends indicate an increasing demand that aligns with the forecasted growth of the local population, which has been steadily rising at approximately 1.5% annually. With the anticipated need for health services, NurseRecruiter estimates that in the next three years, Kirkland might require around 350 new nursing professionals. Currently, the estimated number of active nurses in the area is about 1,200, which indicates a healthy employer to nurse ratio that benefits job seekers. Furthermore, travel nursing opportunities in our city are notable, with a seasonal increase during the winter months when hospitals often see high patient volumes due to flu and respiratory illnesses, making Kirkland a favorable spot for travel nurses. We also see a respectable demand for per diem nursing positions catering to shifts throughout the healthcare sector; the estimates suggest there are around 150 active per diem roles at any given time in the city. Compared to nearby cities like Redmond and Bellevue, where salaries might average slightly lower between $76,000 and $82,000, Kirkland nurses can often find better compensation and job satisfaction due to our commitment to healthcare excellence.

The healthcare infrastructure in Kirkland is both expansive and specialized. With several major hospitals and clinic networks serving our community, such as EvergreenHealth and multiple urgent care facilities, the need for specialized nurses—like those in geriatric care, pediatrics, and surgical nursing—is particularly high. A recent commitment by the city to invest in expanding healthcare facilities is making wave within our community, with plans announced for enhancements to outpatient services at local centers. Our vibrant lifestyle here blends urban conveniences with natural beauty, offering a tight-knit community feel, and we take pride in our local events like the Kirkland Waterfront Festival. As of 2023, our population is about 92,000 and is anticipated to grow, which bodes well for the nursing market as public health initiatives continue to flourish. For both current nurses and those considering a move to our lovely city, signing up for NurseRecruiter can streamline job hunting and help connect us with potential employers. Meanwhile, healthcare facilities can use the platform to find dedicated local talent eager to make a difference in our Kirkland community.