Forrest City, Arkansas: A Flourishing Nursing Job Market with Competitive Salaries and Strong Community Support
Here in Forrest City, Arkansas, our nursing job market is as inviting as our small-town charm. With a population of around 14,500, nestled just a stone's throw from the beautiful St. Francis River, Forrest City is a serene backdrop for those in the nursing profession. The nursing salaries here typically range from about $28.60 to $33.00 per hour, translating to an annual salary between approximately $59,680 and $68,640. For comparison, the Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests the national average hourly wage for registered nurses stands at around $36.22 and the median annual salary at $75,330. In Arkansas, these figures average lower, but Forrest City consistently offers competitive pay, enriched by its unique cultural charm and close-knit community atmosphere.
Delving deeper, the nursing job market in Forrest City is seeing substantial growth. Our local healthcare facilities, including the notable Forrest City Medical Center, are key employers that provide a nurturing environment for around 370 registered nurses working in our city. According to the latest estimates from NurseRecruiter, our growing population and rising healthcare needs mean we will need approximately 30% more nurses over the next five years. This demand creates an inviting space for travel and per diem nurses as well; while there are fewer travel nursing positions here, local hospitals do tend to call on traveling nurses during the peak flu season and holiday periods when staff shortages can occur. In comparison, nearby Blytheville offers an edge with its larger healthcare framework and travel nursing opportunities, yet Forrest City remains a close competitor with our strong community ties and warm local culture.
Our healthcare infrastructure, comprising several clinics and the main hospital, is gradually expanding, particularly as new investments target improvements in patient care and innovative services. Currently, Forrest City houses about six major healthcare facilities and is continuously upgrading its offerings. This city is known for its enriching lifestyle, partly due to local events such as the annual St. Francis County Fair and the picturesque parks ideal for outdoor activities. As the community grows, so does our commitment to health services, including various public health initiatives targeting preventive care. As we cultivate our local nursing workforce to meet the emerging demands, prospective and current nurses should consider signing up for job alerts on NurseRecruiter. It’s a valuable resource for finding local opportunities that allow us to make a difference right here where we live, work, and serve.
