Thriving Nursing Job Market in Lakewood, California: Competitive Salaries, Growing Demand, and a Healthier Future for Healthcare Professionals
Here in Lakewood, California, our nursing job market reflects both the vibrancy of our community and the broader trends within the state and nation. Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles County, Lakewood boasts new parks, lively neighborhoods, and proximity to the bustling city life of Los Angeles just a stone's throw away. As a city with a competitive nursing job market, we find ourselves amid dynamic forces that shape salaries and employment opportunities. Nurses in Lakewood can expect average salaries ranging from approximately $37.50 to $57.50 per hour, translating to an annual salary between $78,000 and $120,000. In contrast, the mean hourly wage for nurses in California is around $48.96 with a yearly mean salary of about $101,150 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Conversely, the national average hovers around $40.35 hourly and $83,000 yearly. The blend of suburban comfort and accessibility to urban amenities makes Lakewood an attractive place for nursing professionals seeking growth and quality of life.
Our nursing job market is robust and continues to show promise for the future. NurseRecruiter estimates that the city employs around 1,200 registered nurses, which comprises a significant portion of the healthcare workforce given our population of about 80,000 residents. The demand for nurses is projected to grow by about 15% over the next five years, with nearly 300 new positions expected to open up in various healthcare settings. This includes a healthy influx of travel nursing and per diem roles; while Lakewood itself is not a major hotspot for travel nursing, we see a steady interest in local assignments, especially during peak seasons like summer when the healthcare facilities experience higher patient inflow. In terms of healthcare infrastructure, Lakewood is served by several key employers, including Lakewood Regional Medical Center, as well as numerous clinics and specialty facilities. Comparatively, cities like Long Beach and Cerritos offer slightly higher average pay but also have denser populations and a more competitive market. Our neighbors also experience a similar nursing shortage, which is a testament to the industry-wide demand for nurses.
The healthcare infrastructure in Lakewood emphasizes a strong commitment to progressive care and community health. With about four major healthcare facilities and numerous outpatient clinics, our city is well equipped to serve the local population. Investments in new medical technology and facility upgrades have been on the rise, reflecting the ongoing commitment to improve healthcare delivery in our community. Lifestyle here is a blend of tranquil suburban living with access to the vibrant cultural scene of Los Angeles. With diverse dining options, parks, and numerous events throughout the year, there’s so much for us here to enjoy. Lakewood's population has been steadily growing, contributing to the demand for healthcare services and providing an encouraging landscape for nursing professionals. Notably, local public health initiatives have also promoted wellness programs that directly impact nursing roles, enhancing community engagement. As we continue to embrace both the opportunities and challenges in the nursing job market, it's an exciting time for nurses in Lakewood. I encourage my fellow nursing professionals to sign up for NurseRecruiter to explore job opportunities in our community; it's a great platform for matching local talent with eager healthcare employers. For those hiring, NurseRecruiter serves as an excellent resource to find qualified nursing professionals right here in Lakewood.
