Nursing Careers Bloom in Wauwatosa's Heart

Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, often known as Tosa to locals, is a vibrant city nestled just outside of Milwaukee. It's not just a charming suburban area with tree-lined streets, but also a burgeoning hub for healthcare and nursing professionals. The city is home to several notable hospitals, including the renowned Froedtert Hospital and the Milwaukee Regional Medical Center, which contribute significantly to our local economy and healthcare access. Here in Wauwatosa, nurses can expect a competitive salary range, with averages around $35 to $45 per hour, translating to an annual salary between $73,000 and $94,000. In comparison, the national average for registered nurses is approximately $36.22 per hour, or about $75,000 per year, while Wisconsin’s rates hover between $33 and $41 per hour. This attractive salary range reflects not only the high demand for nursing professionals here but also positions Wauwatosa as a desirable location in the regional healthcare landscape.

I wanted a place where I could make a real difference. Wauwatosa gave me that.

Looking at the broader job market, Wauwatosa presents a healthy employment landscape for nurses, with projected growth in the coming years. According to estimates, our city has about 2,200 RNs currently employed, and with an aging population and expanding healthcare facilities, there is an anticipated need for over 200 new nursing positions in the next three to five years. The demand for travel nurses and per diem shifts is also notable, especially as the city draws healthcare professionals from outside the area. One can expect to see seasonal trends where demand peaks during the influenza season and summer months when vacations can leave facilities understaffed. While Wauwatosa boasts its own advantages, it is essential to note the contrast with nearby cities like Milwaukee and Brookfield, where the competition may be slightly more intense and salaries can vary slightly. In Milwaukee, for instance, the average pay is marginally higher, reflective of the larger healthcare network presence, making Tosa an attractive alternative for those seeking work-life balance in a suburban setting.

Wauwatosa’s healthcare infrastructure is continually evolving, with multiple clinics and specialty facilities catering to diverse patient needs—from pediatrics to geriatric care. Currently, there are about eight major hospitals and a variety of outpatient facilities within a short distance, creating ample opportunity for nurses specializing in various fields such as emergency, surgical, and critical care nursing. Investments in healthcare initiatives are on the rise, reflecting community commitment to improving public health services and outreach programs, such as those targeting chronic disease management and mental health. With a population of approximately 48,000 that continues to grow, our community is rich with culture, arts, and stunning parks—suggesting that Wauwatosa is not just a place to work, but a wonderful place to live and thrive. Those who are currently in nursing or considering a move to our charming city can find numerous opportunities through NurseRecruiter, where they can access job listings that cater to their expertise. Employers in our area can also utilize NurseRecruiter to connect with qualified local candidates to further enhance our healthcare community in Wauwatosa.