Thriving Nursing Job Market in Fullerton, California: Competitive Salaries, Growing Demand, and a Community Committed to Health Care Excellence
Here in Fullerton, California’s vibrant heart, our nursing job market shines with a unique blend of opportunity and community spirit. Nestled in Orange County, Fullerton boasts beautiful tree-lined streets, an array of cultural venues, and an energetic downtown that hosts delightful festivals throughout the year. For nursing professionals, the city offers a competitive salary range, with nurses typically earning between $45 and $55 per hour, translating to an annual income of approximately $94,500 to $114,400. This is notably higher than the state average of $41.83 per hour (nearly $87,000 annually) as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and significantly exceeds the national average of $38.74 per hour, or around $80,000 yearly. With its appealing local market and proximity to bustling cities like Anaheim and Santa Ana, it’s an exciting time to be a nurse here.
Employment trends indicate a robust nursing job market in Fullerton, with growth expected to continue steadily in the upcoming years. With an estimated 2,300 nurses currently working in our city, projections suggest that we will need an additional 20% of this workforce—around 460 new positions—over the next five years to meet increasing healthcare demands. The demand for travel nursing positions has gained traction, particularly in the summer when local attractions thrive. Many travel nurses are drawn to our local healthcare facilities, which include significant employers like St. Jude Medical Center and numerous outpatient clinics, offering flexibility and varied experiences. In comparison with nearby cities such as Anaheim, where the hourly wage averages about $43, and Santa Ana, with roughly $44 per hour, Fullerton remains competitive. Furthermore, a nearby hotspot for per diem nursing jobs, our city presents ample opportunity for those looking for flexible work—our per diem market is estimated to be 15% of the total nursing jobs, reflecting broader trends in healthcare staffing.
Fullerton’s healthcare infrastructure comprises several hospitals, urgent care facilities, and specialty clinics, making it a sought-after location for nursing positions specializing in pediatrics, geriatrics, and emergency care. Recent investments in the local health system, including a focus on telehealth services, have paved the way for modern practices that cater to growing populations. As Fullerton grows—its population projected to increase by 4% over the next five years—it remains committed to public health initiatives that bolster community wellbeing, including diabetes awareness programs and mental health resources. We must stay informed and engaged with the local healthcare scene, and I invite both current and prospective nurses to explore opportunities at NurseRecruiter, the perfect avenue to find jobs that match our skills and preferences. Employers can also utilize NurseRecruiter to discover talented local candidates, ensuring our city continues to thrive in its mission of providing top-notch healthcare to all residents.