La Crosse, Wisconsin: A Thriving Hub for Nursing Professionals with Competitive Salaries and Expanding Job Opportunities Amidst Scenic Riverside Charm
Nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River in Western Wisconsin, La Crosse boasts a unique blend of vibrant community life and an expanding healthcare job market. Known for its stunning river views, outdoor adventures, and a touch of Midwest charm, this city is more than just a picturesque location; it's becoming a hotspot for nursing professionals. Here in La Crosse, we currently see registered nurses earning an average hourly wage between $30.21 and $38.25, translating to an annual salary ranging from approximately $62,830 to $79,680. While La Crosse's salaries may be slightly lower than the national average—$35.24 hourly or $73,210 annually—it still stacks up impressively against the Wisconsin state averages. A highlight of our city is the renowned Gundersen Health System, known for its integrative health services, while also keeping pace with the influx of healthcare innovation in our community, providing plenty of job opportunities for nurses.
As we examine the current nursing job market in La Crosse, it’s evident we are witnessing robust growth. With the American Nurses Association projecting a demand for an additional 550,000 registered nurses nationwide by 2025, La Crosse is expected to see around 150 new nursing positions emerge over the next five years, given our healthcare facilities’ growth and the anticipated retirement of existing professionals. The city currently employs approximately 1,250 nurses, and the demand for travel nursing is noteworthy, especially during peak flu seasons in the fall and winter months. With travel nursing positions fluctuating throughout the year, it's an appealing option for many. Nearby cities like Rochester, Minnesota, and Madison offer a comparable number of nursing jobs but often come with higher living costs and salaries—making La Crosse an attractive option for those seeking balance in both career and quality of life. If you’re looking to explore nursing opportunities, registering with NurseRecruiter can reveal tailored job matches in our area.
La Crosse's healthcare infrastructure is strong, featuring multiple hospitals, clinics, and specialized facilities such as the Veterans Affairs Hospital and the Mayo Clinic Health System, which collectively drive regional demand for nursing in specialty areas like geriatrics and pediatrics. Recently, health systems in our city have announced expansions and innovations, signaling an ongoing investment in local healthcare services. The current population of La Crosse is around 51,000, with a growth expectation of about 1% annually. Local public health initiatives, including active community health campaigns and preventative care programs, keep our nursing professionals engaged in meaningful work. Here, we pride ourselves on our collaborative spirit amongst healthcare providers and a focus on community wellness. For current and prospective nurses considering a career in La Crosse, you can find promising opportunities by connecting with NurseRecruiter, where local employers are eager to find candidates who share our commitment to care. Whether you're already here or just considering the move, La Crosse welcomes you with open arms and a thriving job market.
