Harrison, Arkansas: A Growing Oasis for Nursing Professionals in the Heart of the Ozarks
Nestled in the scenic Ozark Mountains, Harrison, Arkansas is a charming small town with a strong sense of community and a burgeoning nursing job market. Known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant local culture, Harrison offers nursing professionals an inviting place to live and work. The nursing salary range in Harrison is estimated between $26.85 to $34.22 per hour, translating to approximately $55,880 to $71,170 annually. In comparison, the national average for registered nurses is about $38.09 per hour and $79,960 annually, while Arkansas offers a mean hourly wage of $32.04 and an annual salary of about $66,700. The cost of living here is significantly lower than the national average, making it an appealing option for nursing professionals looking for a balance between a fulfilling career and a comfortable lifestyle.
As the healthcare landscape evolves, Harrison finds itself in a growing nursing job market characterized by increasing demand. NurseRecruiter estimates that approximately 1,850 nurses are currently employed in the Harrison area, with projections suggesting that around 230 new nurses will be needed over the next five years due to expansions in local healthcare facilities. The presence of prominent employers like North Arkansas Regional Medical Center, along with numerous clinics and long-term care facilities, creates diverse job opportunities for nurses seeking both full-time and per diem roles. In contrast to surrounding cities such as Branson, Missouri, and Springfield, Missouri, where the nursing job market is more competitive, Harrison allows for a more personalized and community-focused work environment. Travel nursing opportunities do exist here, particularly in the summer months when tourism peaks, but Harrison is not considered a travel nursing hotspot. Nevertheless, the per diem nursing market is quite active, with healthcare facilities often looking to fill temporary shifts, giving nurses additional flexibility.
The healthcare infrastructure in Harrison is robust, highlighted by the North Arkansas Regional Medical Center, which offers a variety of services and specialties, including surgical, obstetrical, and emergency care. Recent investments in healthcare technology and services signal a commitment to advancing local healthcare and provide ample prospects for nursing professionals with specialized skills. The city has a population of around 13,000, and projections suggest steady growth, likely fueling an ongoing demand for nurses in the area. Local public health initiatives focus on preventative care, wellness programs, and accessibility to healthcare services, further indicating areas of growth for nursing roles. Living in Harrison means embracing a lifestyle rich in nature, music, and community, where nurses can thrive both professionally and personally. For established nurses and new graduates alike, opportunities abound in Harrison; be sure to sign up for NurseRecruiter to explore your next local job match, or if you're an employer, leverage the platform to connect with passionate local candidates who can make a difference in our healthcare community.
