Kenosha, Wisconsin: A Thriving Hub for Nursing Professionals with Competitive Salaries, Robust Job Growth, and a Vibrant Community Environment
Here in Kenosha, Wisconsin, our city balances the charm of a rich industrial past with the promise of bright futures, especially in healthcare. As a local resident and nursing professional, I have witnessed a significant growth in our nursing job market. Currently, registered nurses in Kenosha can expect to earn between $29.75 and $37.25 per hour, translating to annual salaries from approximately $61,800 to $77,560. For some context, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national mean hourly wage for registered nurses is around $37.31, while the state of Wisconsin averages $33.89 per hour. Our mills may be fewer than they used to be, but with multiple hospitals, clinics, and care facilities, Kenosha continues to shine as a welcoming environment for nursing professionals. The city is uniquely positioned between Milwaukee and Chicago, providing nurses with a vibrant atmosphere enriched by waterfront attractions, cultural landmarks, and a compassionate community spirit.
The current job market in Kenosha is robust, driven by the demand for nursing care across our diverse population. Over the next five years, we estimate that about 150 new nurses will be needed annually in this area, creating a noteworthy opportunity for growth within our profession. Presently, there are approximately 2,500 registered nurses employed here, a number that highlights our active healthcare community. As for travel nursing, Kenosha sees its share of opportunities, predominantly in the summer months when patient influx happens due to seasonal illnesses and procedural upticks. In contrast, per diem nursing jobs are quite prevalent as well, with estimates suggesting around 300 per diem nurses working across various facilities, providing the flexibility we value. For anyone looking to explore opportunities in nearby cities, Racine offers comparable salaries, averaging around $30.50 per hour, while Milwaukee may present more openings and slightly higher wages, emphasizing a competitive landscape in southeastern Wisconsin for healthcare workers.
Kenosha boasts several significant healthcare providers, including Aurora Health Center, Ascension Healthcare, and several urgent care centers catering to a myriad of specialty areas. Recent investments in our healthcare infrastructure, like expansions at Aurora and the establishment of community wellness centers, signal ongoing growth and potential for advancing specialty nursing roles. Our city has a population of roughly 100,000 and has been experiencing a slight growth trend, contributing to a pressing need for nursing staff as public health initiatives advance and the community continues to demand exceptional healthcare services. Living in Kenosha, we enjoy a tight-knit community that offers a vibrant lifestyle enriched with outdoor activities, local arts, and dining experiences along the lakefront. For those of us currently working in nursing or looking to join the field, it’s a fulfilling place to put our skills to work. I invite you to explore local opportunities through NurseRecruiter, where nurses can find job matches tailored to their career aspirations. It’s an exciting time to be a nurse here in Kenosha, and the community is eager to welcome both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike into our healing professions.