Davis, California: A Competitive Nursing Job Market Thriving Amidst Cultural Richness and Community Commitment
Here in Davis, California, our charming city, known for its tree-lined streets and vibrant downtown, is more than just a haven for university students and cyclists; it serves as a rich tapestry for healthcare professionals, particularly nurses. The nursing job market in Davis is competitive and continually evolving, fueled by the presence of UC Davis Health, one of the largest academic health centers in the area. Currently, the average salary range for nurses in Davis sits at approximately $39.15 per hour, translating to around $81,510 annually. When placed against the backdrop of California’s state average of around $44.51 per hour and $92,690 annually, it reveals a unique local context. Even at the national level, where the average hourly wage for nursing stands at around $38.39, it’s clear that quality of life in Davis might offer nurses more than just monetary compensation but also a desirable living atmosphere that balances work and leisure.
Analyzing the nursing job market, we observe a robust demand for healthcare professionals. According to projections, we can expect an influx of approximately 145 new nurses needed in Davis over the next five years as recent workforce trends indicate. Currently, there are an estimated 1,200 nurses employed in our city, with specific demand for part-time and per diem nursing roles reflecting the flexibility our professionals seek. While travel nursing opportunities exist—especially towards the busy summer months with a noticeable uptick due to the influx of tourists to Northern California—Davis doesn't sit at the top of the hotspots. Other nearby cities, such as Sacramento and Woodland, offer more extensive travel nursing opportunities and can sometimes provide higher salary ranges, with averages in Sacramento soaring to around $45.25 per hour. Our local healthcare facilities, primarily UC Davis Medical Center, provide significant employment, alongside outpatient clinics and specialty care centers that enrich our community healthcare landscape.
As we continue to witness a blooming healthcare infrastructure, the addition of new specialty clinics and the ongoing investments in Davis' public health programs highlight the shifts within our job market. We are witnessing growth, with the city’s population around 68,000 projected to rise, drawing attention to public health initiatives designed to attract new healthcare workers, including nurses. The introduction of community health programs targeting primary care and mental health reflects the broader commitment to improving wellness in our area. Life in Davis is a blend of cultural richness, from its thriving farmer’s markets to its annual events like Picnic Day that celebrates our community spirit. For current and prospective nurses, the balance of an engaging lifestyle and meaningful work is what makes our local scene special. For those seeking opportunities, I invite you to sign up for NurseRecruiter, which can connect you with local job matches and resources for posting available positions for your organizations. In Davis, the nursing landscape is inviting, and there’s a collective sense that we can grow together in this rewarding profession.
