Rawlins, Wyoming: A Growing Nursing Job Market Amidst Scenic Beauty and Community Spirit
Here in Rawlins, Wyoming, our city may be small, but it has a vibrant and evolving nursing job market that speaks volumes about the community's dedication to healthcare. Nestled between the stunning landscapes of Medicine Bow National Forest and the historic Yellowtail Reservoir, Rawlins presents a unique blend of outdoor adventures and a tight-knit community. Currently, the average salary range for nurses in our city hovers between $29.00 and $33.00 an hour, translating to an annual income of approximately $60,000 to $68,640. By contrast, Wyoming’s average for registered nurses runs around $32.00 per hour or $66,560 annually, while the national averages sit closer to $37.70 per hour or $78,530 annually, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. What sets us apart, however, is the increasingly attractive lifestyle we offer—affordable living, outdoor activities, and community spirit—that complements our nursing roles.
The current nursing job market here in Rawlins is projected to grow steadily over the next few years, with NurseRecruiter estimating around 15% more nursing positions may open up due to retirements and increasing healthcare needs—translating to approximately 50 new nurses required by 2028. Our current nursing workforce stands at around 350 registered nurses, providing care not just in hospitals but across outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies. While Rawlins does not boast a high volume of travel nursing jobs like larger metropolises, we do see an uptick during peak seasons, especially in late spring and early autumn, reflecting local demand during the tourist influx in the Wind River Valley region. Moreover, per diem nursing rates are reasonable in our area, indicating that facilities are seeking flexible staffing options. Nearby towns like Laramie or Saratoga present slightly higher salary offers and more diverse opportunities, as their larger hospitals and medical systems cater to a broader patient population.
In terms of healthcare infrastructure, Rawlins is served by the Memorial Hospital of Carbon County and several clinics that cater to various specialties. Our local healthcare system is continually evolving, with recent investments aimed at improving facilities and expanding service offerings that cater especially to primary care and emergency services. As Rawlins continues to grow—with an estimated population of just over 9,000, projected to increase steadily—public health initiatives also aim to address pressing community needs, such as substance abuse recovery programs, telehealth accessibility, and wellness campaigns. Overall, the lifestyle here fosters a welcoming community, where nurses can exchange outdoor stories or connect through local events like the annual Carbon County Fair. As we continue to shape our healthcare landscape, let’s stay connected with NurseRecruiter, aligning with local job matches and keeping our pulse on opportunities in our beloved Rawlins and beyond. Employers can also harness this platform to reach out and find local nursing candidates actively engaged in our community.