Sacramento's Booming Nursing Job Market: Competitive Salaries, Growing Demand, and a Thriving Healthcare Community Await Professionals
Here in Sacramento, the vibrant capital of California, our nursing job market is as dynamic as the city itself. Infused with a diverse culture and rich history, Sacramento boasts beautiful landmarks such as the iconic California State Capitol and the historical Old Sac district, creating a unique backdrop for both local nurses and traveling professionals. Currently, our nursing salaries average around $40 to $55 per hour, which annualizes to approximately $83,000 to $114,000. This range is competitive, particularly when compared to the national average of $37.31 per hour — approximately $77,000 annually — and California's state average of about $45.80 per hour. Despite the allure of Silicon Valley, Sacramento caters to those pursuing a quality lifestyle along with their careers, inviting a balanced and engaging living experience.
As the demand for healthcare professionals continues to rise, Sacramento's job market reflects robust growth trends, with an anticipated need for approximately 1,500 new nurses over the next five years based on current population growth and healthcare trends. Currently, we estimate that there are about 18,000 employed nurses in our city. The travel nursing market shows significant potential as well, with an estimated 250 travel positions available, particularly spiking during the winter months when hospital admissions traditionally rise with flu season. Per diem numbers are equally impressive, reflecting a growing market of around 600 positions as healthcare facilities adapt to flexible workforce needs. Looking beyond our borders, nearby cities such as Davis and Roseville offer similar opportunities, yet Sacramento stands out for its larger healthcare infrastructure, with several major hospitals and healthcare facilities like UC Davis Medical Center and Sutter Medical Center, providing a robust landscape for nursing employment.
Sacramento’s healthcare infrastructure showcases numerous facilities across a wide range of specialties, ensuring that nursing opportunities align with various career interests. Notable investments in mental health services and outpatient care are expanding our nursing roles in critical areas, highlighting the city's commitment to improving public health. The estimated population of Sacramento is around 525,000, with a projected growth rate fueled by the influx of new residents seeking the city's balanced lifestyle. Community initiatives, such as the Sacramento Healthy Cities Program, also create more pathways for nursing involvement in public health. All these factors contribute to making Sacramento not just a place to work but a thriving community where nurses can build their careers. As we face a vibrant nursing landscape full of opportunities, I encourage fellow nursing professionals, whether local or prospective, to explore job openings through NurseRecruiter, a useful tool to connect with employers around the city. Our community is waiting for you, and as employers, we can utilize the same platform to find excellent local candidates to bolster our healthcare workforce.
